Examining the mediating effect of job crafting on the relationship between managerial coaching and job engagement among electricians in the U.S. skilled trades

Abstract

ABSTRACT Talent shortages among skilled trades workers are a growing global concern in many of the world’s largest economies. In the United States (U.S.), these shortages could cost as much as $2.5 trillion with 2.4 million positions unfilled between 2018 and 2028. Consequences for employers and consumers include reduced competitiveness, productivity, and higher turnover. Engagement of employees in their jobs has become important in industry sectors experiencing these shortages. Several calls have been made to examine antecedent human resource development interventions, like managerial coaching, and other mediating mechanisms that might influence engagement. Feedback, often a provision of managerial coaching, may enable employees to craft their jobs. Thus, job crafting may explain how managerial coaching can help employees to craft their jobs to be more meaningful and engaging. Therefore, this study examined the mediating effect of job crafting on the relationship between managerial coaching and job engagement among electricians in the U.S. skilled trades. A quantitative, half-longitudinal survey design with two paper surveys administered at two distinct time periods in a skilled trades organization was employed. Data from 292 matched surveys were analysed. Findings support job crafting as a full mediator between managerial coaching and job engagement. Implications and future research pathways are provided.