COVID-19 and the workplace: implications, issues, and insights for future research and action

Kniffin, K M, Narayanan, J, Anseel, F, Antonakis, J, Ashford, S P, Bakker, A B, Bamberger, P, Bapuji, H, Bhave, D P, Choi, V K, Creary, S J, Demerouti, E, Flynn, F J, Gelfand, M J, Greer, L L, Johns, G, Kesebir, S, Klein, P G, Lee, S Y, Ozcelik, H, Petriglieri, J L, Rothbard, N P, Rudolph, C W, Shaw, J D, Sirola, N, Wanberg, C R, Whillans, A, Wilmot, M P and van Vugt, M (2021) COVID-19 and the workplace: implications, issues, and insights for future research and action. American Psychologist, 76 (1). pp. 63-77. ISSN 0003-066X

Abstract

COVID-19's impacts on workers and workplaces across the globe have been dramatic. We present a broad review of prior research rooted in work and organizational psychology, and related fields, for making sense of the implications for employees, teams, and work organizations. Our review and preview of relevant literature focuses on: (i) emergent changes in work practices (e.g. working from home, virtual teams) and (ii) emergent changes for workers (e.g. social distancing, stress and unemployment). In addition, we examine the potential moderating factors of demographic characteristics, individual differences, and organizational norms to generate disparate effects. This broad-scope overview provides an integrative approach for considering the implications of COVID-19 for work and organizations while also identifying issues for future research and insights to inform solutions.