Exploring the effect of perceived fun at work on hospitality employees' behaviors in and out of work

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to draw on positive psychology literature and the affective spillover theory to gain a comprehensive understanding of the effects of perceived workplace fun (WF) on hospitality employees' behaviors in and out of work.Design/methodology/approachMultirater data were collected via surveys from 247 hospitality employees and their direct supervisors and spouses. Data were analyzed using the AMOS and Macro processes in SPSS.FindingsThe results revealed that employees' positive affect at work mediates the relationship between perceived WF and both employees' organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBs) and family-related social behaviors (i.e. engagement in social activities outside work with their spouses). Personal attitudes toward fun at work moderate the indirect association between perceived WF and the study outcomes (OCBs and family-related social behaviors).Social implicationsBy fostering a workplace environment that prioritizes the perception of enjoyment, organizations can effectively stimulate greater employee engagement in OCBs and promote positive social interactions beyond the workplace. It underscores the significance of an enjoyable environment that benefits employees, organizations and society.Originality/valueThis study extends the existing research on the relationship between WF and employees' behaviors in and out of work and provides new insights into the underlying mechanisms that influence this relationship.