Teleworkers' job performance: a study examining the role of age as an important diversity component of companies' workforce

PurposeTeleworking seems to be the new future of the workplace. It has been widely adopted during the COVID-19 crisis, which has greatly influenced work organization conditions. This pandemic and its accompanying changes represent significant challenges for employees' performance, depending on their age if the study considers the physical and psychological vulnerabilities of older employees and their assumed or expected difficulties to cope with the new information and communication technologies (ICTs). This study aims at examining the direct effects of teleworking, and age on job performance (in-role). As well as analyzing the moderating effect of age on the relationship between teleworking and in-role job performance in times of crisis.Design/methodology/approachData were collected in Canada from 18 companies, with a sample of 272 employees. Multivariate regression and moderation regression analyses were performed using Stata 13.FindingsResults revealed that when teleworking, older age is associated with lower job performance and younger age is associated with higher job performance. Conversely, when working on-site, older age is associated with higher job performance, whereas younger age is associated with lower job performance.Practical implicationsFrom a practical perspective, these results highlight the importance of decision authority and recognition. As well as the presence of age disparities related to work arrangements. Managers need to adopt an inclusive approach and develop work arrangements that take into consideration employees' needs and ages. Some insights and practical recommendations are presented in this paper to support managers and human resource practitioners.Originality/valueStudies examining the in-role job performance of teleworkers and the effects of age are sparse. This study helps to expand research on human resources management, job performance and age.