Anglim, Jeromy; Horwood, Sharon

Experience sampling research provides unique insights into the momentary experience of workers and the factors that shape their mood and well-being (Bono, Foldes, Vinson, & Muros, 2007; Conner, Tennen, Fleeson, & Barrett, 2009; Ilies & Judge, 2002). Despite the growing popularity of this method, most studies have involved relatively small participant samples, which limits inferences about the relationships between traits and states. Moreover, the dynamics of person–situation interactions within workplace settings remain underexplored. This study investigates the connection between personality traits, daily health behaviours, and moment-to-moment mood fluctuations both at work and elsewhere. A convenience sample of Australian workers completed the experience sampling study, consisting of 203 participants (64% female; age M = 32.3, SD = 10.2) and 10,788 momentary observations. Baseline measures of Big Five personality (NEO FFI) and subjective well-being (PANAS, Diener's Satisfaction with Life) were obtained. Participants then completed a 14-day experience sampling study including a daily survey of planned and actual health behaviours (i.e., amount of sleep, fruit and vegetable consumption, sugary food consumption, exercise, and alcohol consumption) and momentary assessments of context and mood five times per day (i.e., whether the participant was at work or socialising and their levels of happiness, excitement, stress, tiredness, distraction, absorption, satisfaction, and productivity). The strongest personality correlates of average momentary states at work were (a) neuroticism with stress and tiredness, (b) extraversion with happiness, excitement, and satisfaction, and (c) conscientiousness with absorption and distractedness (reversed). Interestingly, feelings of productivity correlated most strongly with engagement and satisfaction but showed no correlation with stress. Being at work was associated with higher levels of stress, absorption, and distraction. In general, participants were happier on Saturday and Sunday than during the week, but this only applied when not working. In general, participants engaged in fewer health behaviours and got less sleep than they planned (e.g., 7.82 hours of sleep planned; 7.44 hours obtained). A multilevel model showed that people were generally happier when socialising and when not at work. The study highlights how personality and the workplace context interact to influence employee well-being. Implications for understanding the momentary experience of employee well-being and the role of personality traits will be discussed.

At the conclusion of this event, attendees will have a greater understanding of (a) the dynamic nature of employee mood and well-being, (b) the way that personality and the workplace context influences mood and well-being, and (c) the ways that momentary and longer-term well-being differ. Attendees will be exposed to experience sampling methodologies with scope to evaluate the relevance to their own research and consulting practices.