Exploring the moderating effects of perceived alternative job opportunities and work experience on the relationship between job satisfaction and turnover intentions: A study among educators in Lebanon

Abstract

Turnover is a common occurrence where employees choose to leave an organization. Despite previous research on turnover intentions and job satisfaction, the impact of work experience and perceived alternative job opportunities, especially during economic crises, has not been adequately studied. This study aims to explore the relationship between turnover intentions and job satisfaction, considering factors of work experience and perceptions of other job opportunities. This study was conducted in Lebanon, and 156 educators were surveyed via electronic questionnaires. The data analysis included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and hierarchical regression modeling. The findings reveal a significant negative correlation between turnover intention and job satisfaction (r = –0.315*, p < 0.05). Perceived alternative job opportunities do not show a significant correlation with job satisfaction (ß = –0.028, p > 0.05), thus having no moderating role. However, work experience significantly moderates the relationship between job satisfaction and turnover intentions (ß = –0.052*, p < 0.05). Despite the negative impact on job satisfaction, Lebanon’s economic crisis affects teachers’ decision to stay due to limited job opportunities. AcknowledgmentThe authors sincerely appreciate all the teachers who devoted their time to participate in the survey.