Spiritual behaviour in the workplace as a topic for research

Abstract

Spirituality at work is a fascinating and complex variable. It is linked to findings for business management such that it makes organizations grow faster, increases efficiency, enhances organizational performance, improves communication and a greater sense of team and community, and is related positively to employee's attitudes towards their work. Consequently, more employers are encouraging the expression of spirituality in the workplace as a way to boost loyalty and increase morale. However, there is empirical evidence that runs contrary to the common assertion of employees that they desire or expect organizational and supervisory involvement in their spirituality in the workplace. With the aim of specifying the construct of spirituality at work, the article proposes a theoretical approach that assumes that spirituality in the workplace is not independent of environmental influence. It investigates the various processes and elements that interact at individual, organizational, and societal levels.