Work Empowerment and Satisfaction of Local and Non-Local Workers in Macao: The Role of Culture

This study examines the relationship between work empowerment and job satisfaction, and the moderating roles of collectivism and power distance orientations. The research aims to investigate how cultural values impact the empowerment-satisfaction link within an organisational context.
A survey-based quantitative approach was utilized. Validated scales were used to measure work empowerment, job satisfaction, collectivism, and power distance. Data was collected from employees across multiple organisations and analyzed using correlational, regression, and moderation analyses.
The results indicate a positive relationship between work empowerment and job satisfaction. However, this relationship was found to be moderated by cultural values. Collectivism was found to weaken the positive link between empowerment and satisfaction, suggesting that in more collectivist cultures, employees may value group harmony and loyalty over individual autonomy. Conversely, higher power distance was found to strengthen the empowerment-satisfaction relationship, implying that in organisations with greater power disparities, employees appreciate the autonomy and influence afforded by empowerment practices.
The findings offer important insights for managers seeking to enhance employee job satisfaction through empowerment initiatives. The study highlights the need to consider cultural contexts when implementing such programs. In collectivist settings, a balance
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between individual autonomy and group cohesion should be struck. Whereas in high power distance cultures, empowerment may be particularly motivating and satisfying for employees.
This research contributes to the limited literature examining the moderating role of cultural values on the work empowerment-job satisfaction link. By integrating theory on cultural dimensions, the study provides a nuanced understanding of how contextual factors shape employee responses to empowerment practices. The findings offer practical guidance for organisations seeking to foster greater job satisfaction and engagement through empowering work environments.