Exploring the mediating role of psychological factors in the relationship between supervisor support and job performance

Purpose Social exchange and social learning theories are widely used in many disciplines, but there is little research on the relationships between supervisor support and job performance in a developing context. Therefore this study aims to examine the links between supervisor support and job performance with the mediating role of psychological factors; empowerment and self-confidence. Design/methodology/approach Data for this study were collected from 364 employees working at Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited. Partial least square structural equation modeling was used for the analysis. Findings The results revealed that supervisor support stimulates job performance. Empowerment and self-confidence both partially mediate the relationships between supervisor support and job performance. Practical implications This study adds to the current body of literature by providing insight into the influence of perceived supervisor support on job performance through the mediating role of psychological factors. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the very few studies exploring the relationships between supervisor support and job performance in developing contexts, particularly focusing on the mediating mechanisms of empowerment and self-confidence.