The cost of isolation. Examining the impact of workplace ostracism on employees' extra-role behaviors

Purpose Drawing from the conservation of resources (COR) theory, this study explores workplace ostracism's impact on employees' extra-role behaviors through the mediation of thriving at work and organization-based self-esteem (OBSE). Further analysis was conducted in order to examine the moderating role of job seniority in the “workplace ostracism–OBSE” relationship. Design/methodology/approach For the needs of this study, “partial least squares structural equation modeling” was applied based on a convenient sample of 234 employees across 12 pharmaceutical companies in Greece. Findings The findings underlined workplace ostracism's significant and negative impact on employees' extra-role behaviors, via the decrease of their levels of thriving and OBSE. In addition, job seniority was found to moderate the relationship between workplace ostracism and OBSE, showing that the effects are stronger for younger recruits. Practical implications This study's findings offer important theoretical and practical implications for implementing more nuanced, holistic interventions that foster inclusive environments, which enable employees to thrive, develop strong OBSE and engage in behaviors outside of their in-role spectrum. Originality/value The exploration of job seniority's moderating effect on the relationship between workplace ostracism and OBSE, along with the fact that the present study takes place in the pharmaceutical industry in Greece.