Impact of work overload as a job stressor on employees intention to leave: The mediating effect of work-family conflict in a Sri Lankan apparel sector organisation

Abstract

Purpose- This article investigates the impact of work overload and work-family conflict as job stressors on employees' intention to leave in the Sri Lankan apparel sector, focusing on the mediating effect of work-family conflict. The study addresses concerns over high employee turnover rates among machine operators in the sector. Methodology- The study collected primary data through a self-administered questionnaire from a sample of 106 machine operators working in a selected factory in the western province of Sri Lanka. The research adopted a cross-sectional quantitative survey design, and data analysis was performed using the SPSS PROCESS macro. Findings- The study revealed that work overload positively influenced work-family conflict, indicating challenges in balancing work and family responsibilities. Further, work overload increased employees' intention to leave, suggesting its detrimental effects on employee motivation and job satisfaction. Work-family conflict serves as a partial mediator in the relationship between work overload and turnover intentions, playing a crucial role in transmitting adverse effects, leading to increased turnover intentions. Conclusion- This research demonstrates the combined effects of work overload and work-family conflict on employee turnover intentions within the Sri Lankan apparel sector context. The findings highlight the importance of addressing work-related demands and resources to enhance job outcomes, such as employee turnover, in compliance with the Job Demands-Resources model. These insights provide practical implications for implementing strategies that promote work-life balance, reduce turnover intentions and enhance both employee and organisational performance. Keywords: Work overload, work-family conflict, employee turnover intentions, job stressor, Sri Lankan apparel sector. JEL Codes: J28, J63, J81