Examining the relationship between organizational commitment and turnover intention via a meta-analysis

Purpose The purpose of this study is expected to reveal the relationship between organizational commitment and turnover intention in the tourism and hospitality literature with more generalizable results, and thus, provide researchers with a new perspective for future studies. In this context, Individual studies that examined the relationship between organizational commitment and turnover intention in the tourism and hospitality industry were systematically identified by a comprehensive literature review. Design/methodology/approach Individual studies were synthesized and analyzed via a meta-analysis method to reveal whether any relationship exists between organizational commitment and turnover intention and to estimate the direction and intensity of the relationship in a more reliable and comprehensive manner. The analyses were carried out on 13 scientific papers that met the inclusion criteria. Findings Results showed that a moderate negative relationship exists between organizational commitment and turnover intention of employees in the tourism and hospitality industry. In this context, individuals who have emotional commitments to their institutions will have lower turnover intentions than others. The right personal selection, performance evaluation techniques, promotion, training and development opportunities, career opportunities and talent management and functional virtues such as strong communication, trust and justice will not only reinforce organizational commitment but also attract talented individuals to an organization and ensure employee retention. Originality/value In the current study, individual studies focusing on the relationship between organizational commitment and turnover were cumulatively collected, synthesized and analyzed. By way of providing a review of individual studies, the study provides cumulative and reliable evidence to the literature regarding the relationship between organizational commitment and turnover, and hence, contributes to the further progression of the field. The study is also the first meta-analysis carried out on the subject in question.