The Influence of Remote Work on Personality Trait–Performance Linkages: A Two-Wave Longitudinal Study

Abstract

Few studies have investigated how remote work influences personality trait–performance linkages over time in heterogeneous work populations. Hence, the aim of this study was twofold: (1) to explore the predictive validity personality traits have on work behaviour (work engagement and innovative work behaviour) and occupational health outcomes (general health and sick leave); (2) to explore how remote work potentially moderates the trait–performance linkage. Panel survey data from a Norwegian work–life barometer panel research project was employed, and the time lag was one year. The results indicated that the Big Five was consistently related to work behaviour and occupational health outcomes. Extraversion had the strongest positive association with work engagement (0.25), innovative work behaviour (0.26) and general health (0.17), while neuroticism had the strongest negative association with work engagement (−0.16), general health (−0.21), and sick leave (−0.23). Agreeableness increases the risk of sick leave (0.11), while intellect/imagination increases innovative work behaviour (0.13). Remote work reduces the influence extraversion has on work engagement, while remote work five days a week also reduces the effect conscientiousness has on general health. Remote work did not moderate trait–performance linkages associated with intellect/imagination, agreeableness or neuroticism. This study provides updated knowledge on trait–performance linkages post-COVID-19 and demonstrates that remote work can reduce the positive influence of extraversion and conscientiousness.

Keywords

• remote work
• big five
• personality traits
• performance
• work behaviour
• occupational health outcomes