How Technology-Assisted Supplemental Work Influences Burnout and Work Engagement

Abstract

Organizations are continually confronted with automation, digital platforms, and other innovations that are changing the fundamental nature of work. Therefore, understanding what impact technology has on employees is crucial. This study investigates the role technology-assisted supplemental work, abbreviated to TASW, has on the relationships between job demands and burnout, and job resources and work engagement. This paper follows the spirit of previous research in the field; with four questionnaires used to measure job demands and resources, burnout, work engagement and TASW. We distributed one web-based questionnaire to voluntary participants on social media by email, and distribution to friends and family. Based on the valid responses obtained (n = 423), multiple regression analyses were conducted. We found positive relationships between job demands and burnout, and job resources and work engagement. Further, negative relationship between job demands and work engagement, and job resources and burnout were found. We also found a positive relationship between TASW and burnout. The moderating role of TASW between the different independent variables and dependent variables was nonexistent. In light of these findings we discuss theoretical contributions, limitations, directions for future research and implication for practice.