CONTRIBUTION OF FOREIGN SUPERVISOR SUPPORT TO JOB SATISFACTION MEDIATED BY THE PERCEIVED FOREIGN CO-WORKER DISCRIMINATION: THE MODERATING ROLE OF JOB TENURE

Abstract

Frontline staff significantly impact a company’s performance because their tasks involve direct contact with customers. This study aims to determine the effect of foreign supervisor support on Thai subordinates’ perceptions of foreign colleague prejudice and job happiness. The data was gathered from 358 Thai personnel in the air transport industry who work alongside international co-workers and managers. The data analysis technique employed was partial least square structural equation modelling. The findings corroborated the beneficial association between foreign supervisor support and job satisfaction among Thai subordinates. Furthermore, the negative effect of foreign supervisor support on Thai subordinates’ perceived prejudice towards foreign co-workers was more significant for Thai subordinates with a more extended job duration. Additionally, perceived prejudice against foreign co-workers was found to partially moderate the effect of foreign supervisor support on the job satisfaction of Thai subordinates. The findings add to the body of empirical research about supervisor support across ethnic groups. Additionally, this study makes practical recommendations to businesses that hire foreign nationals, particularly as frontline personnel.