The meaning of job satisfaction in a remote work environment

Purpose Remote work has reshaped workplace dynamics by offering flexibility and autonomy while also introducing challenges such as work-life balance conflicts, reduced social connectedness, and professional isolation. This study aims to investigate how remote work influences job satisfaction, focusing on the mediating roles of work-life balance, life satisfaction, social connectedness and professional isolation, drawing on the job demands-resources framework and social exchange theory. Design/methodology/approach To better understand these intricate connections, we have used structural equation modeling to analyze data from 119 survey responses. Both simple and serial mediation effects were investigated. Findings The results show that remote work does not directly explain job satisfaction. Instead, life satisfaction and social connectedness fully mediate this relationship, with work-life balance indirectly influencing job satisfaction through its impact on life satisfaction. Unexpectedly, professional isolation did not mediate job satisfaction in remote work settings, even when considering the roles of social connectedness and life satisfaction. Practical implications The findings highlight the importance of promoting social connection and life satisfaction to enhance job satisfaction in remote work settings. Organizations seeking to optimize remote work policies should consider strategies that support interpersonal relationships and employee well-being. Originality/value By analyzing simple and serial mediation, this research provides a clearer understanding of how organizations can optimize remote work arrangements to enhance employee and organization outcomes. Our findings also contribute to the ongoing debate on the benefits and drawbacks of remote work, offering both theoretical contributions and practical implications for modern workplace practices.