Prioritizing organizational success and the pursuit of victory: Understanding the feelings of exclusion in the workplace

Abstract

This study investigates how an organizational bottom-line mentality (BLM) climate influences employee perceptions of workplace ostracism, with a focus on the moderating role of zero-sum beliefs (ZSB). Using a survey of 220 full-time respondents in the United States, we conducted regression analysis and moderated mediation tests via Hayes' PROCESS macro in R. We measured perceived organizational BLM, employee BLM, ZSB, and work ostracism using validated scales. The results supported all five hypotheses. An organizational BLM climate positively influences employee BLM, which in turn increases perceptions of ostracism. This relationship is stronger for employees with high ZSB. Additionally, the indirect effect of an organizational BLM climate on ostracism through employee BLM is significantly moderated by ZSB. The findings highlight that employees with high ZSB experience greater ostracism in high-BLM environments. Drawing on Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) this study investigates and underscores the negative interpersonal outcomes of a BLM climate. By addressing zero-sum beliefs through targeted interventions, organizations can balance financial objectives with employee well-being, enhancing workplace dynamics and morale.

Keywords

• Bottom-line mentality
• Zero-sum belief
• Workplace ostracism
• Group dynamics