She wants the best: Maximizing tendency, work-to-family enrichment and female employee adaptivity

Abstract

Stereotypes often link female employees with increased family–work conflicts and low work outcomes. Nevertheless, female employees may excel in both home and work environments. This study aimed to examine the effect of maximizing tendency on female employees' family-to-work enrichment and adaptivity. A three-wave survey involving 1074 female employees was conducted. Results indicated that maximizing tendency positively predicts adaptivity via family-to-work enrichment. Spousal relationship quality weakens the effect of maximizing on family-to-work enrichment and employee adaptivity. The findings highlight the benefits of maximizing tendency in female employees, suggesting a bright side to maximizing as it enhances adaptability in dynamic work situations. The study also identifies maximizing tendency as a novel personal characteristic that facilitates resource transfer from family to work domain. The findings offer a valuable perspective for promoting female employees' success in the workplace.