Can continuous learning amplify employees' change-efficacy and contextual performance? Evidence from post-merger Indian organization
International Journal of Manpower
ISSN: 0143-7720
Article publication date: 3 March 2021
Issue publication date: 27 July 2021
Abstract
Purpose
Continuous learning has been referred to as an integral phenomenon of learning organization. While a range of studies have associated continuous learning with employee performance; understanding of this relationship remains underdeveloped in the context of mergers and acquisitions. The present study investigates the relationship among continuous learning, change-efficacy and contextual performance of employees working with a recently merged bank and further explores the mediating role of employees' change-efficacy in relationship between continuous learning and contextual performance of employees.
Design/methodology/approach
A research model with underlying hypothesis is proposed by drawing upon the theory of transformative learning, social cognitive theory and theory of change management. Cross-sectional data was collected from bank employees undergoing integration in a post-merger phase.
Findings
The findings of the study suggest that continuous learning influences employees' change-efficacy and change-efficacy significantly mediates the relationship between continuous learning and contextual performance of employees. The empirical association drawn from the variables has been recognized by extant research as a brighter manifestation of learning organizations.
Research limitations/implications
The research is undertaken in a large Indian bank and the analysis is based on cross-sectional data which may not be generalized across a broader range of sectors and international environment.
Practical implications
The findings of the study have a potential to help HR practitioners to utilize continuous learning in change management by enhancing contextual performance of employees post-mergers and acquisitions.
Originality/value
The study is one of its kinds in a post-merger setup which captures the outcomes of continuous learning by either confirming or extending the existing theories.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The author acknowledges the respondents of the study, editor, reviewers and editorial team for their continuous support in the process of publication.
Citation
Budhiraja, S. (2021), "Can continuous learning amplify employees' change-efficacy and contextual performance? Evidence from post-merger Indian organization", International Journal of Manpower, Vol. 42 No. 6, pp. 1144-1158. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJM-05-2020-0208
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited