Multilevel moderation analysis of change perception on change commitment

Abstract

Purpose In implementing evolutionary or revolutionary change, considering people-related issues is critical. Based on the shared mental model (SMM) and occupational stress theory, the purpose of this paper is to clarify the relationship between change perception and change commitment by investigating the moderating effect of organizational-level SMM and individual-level work stress. Design/methodology/approach This research tested the direct cross-level effect of change perception on change commitment, and the cross-level moderation analysis. The data collected from small and medium-sized enterprises in Taiwan, and sampled 1,201 employees in 267 firms. Findings Change perception would relate positively to change commitment. Moreover, the SMM positively moderated the relationship between change perception and change commitment. In addition, a significant negative-moderated relationship is found. There is a positive relationship between change perception and change commitment at low level of work stress. However, there is the opposite effect when work stress is high. Originality/value The generally understanding of the employees’ attitudes and behaviors in organizational change, especially to investigate the moderating factors at cross-level analysis is limited. The results provide a basis for successful employees’ change commitment, and the authors propose that both organizational- and individual-level moderating effects need to be considered.