The Guanxi mediating role linking organizational justice to contextual performance with age as a moderator

Abstract

Guanxi, a distinctive Chinese concept, reflects a shared vision of relationships and connections that include mutual understanding, trust, and a deep bond between individuals. Recognized for its potency in shaping the relationships that facilitate business undertakings and access to key resources, Guanxi is postulated as a potential mediator in the nexus between organizational justice and contextual work performance. The depth of Guanxi, intertwined with Chinese culture and values, may be perceived differently across age groups. Specifically, as Chinese millennials usually interact with global paradigms, generational disparities might emerge in valuing these traditional constructs. This study delves into how the dimensions of Guanxi—Ganqing (emotional connection), Renqing (reciprocity), and Xinren (loyalty)—mediate the relationship between organizational justice and contextual work performance, with chronological age as a moderator. The present study includes a convenience sample of 630 Chinese employees, aged 22–67 years, who participated in a quantitative online survey. The findings endorse the mediation role of Guanxi. The total influence of justice was found to be significant, as well as the indirect impacts, that were statistically salient. Although the age‐moderated mediation was not wholly substantiated, the age‐specific indirect effects of Renqing and Xinren did present significant variances between millennials and those above 42 years. The relevance of this study extends beyond the academic field, shedding light on the cultural dynamics at play within Chinese organizational settings. By unveiling the relationships between Guanxi, organizational justice, and performance, and by elucidating the age‐specific variations therein, this research provides insights for organizational leaders and human resource professionals. Based on these findings, businesses can craft targeted interventions that capitalize on the strengths of Guanxi, ensuring fair practices and enhancing performance across diverse age groups. Further, recognizing the unique attributes and values of different generational cohorts can aid in fostering a harmonious, culturally attuned, and efficient workplace environment.