Perceptions of black employees regarding the psychological contract within an African context

Orientation: There is a need for researchers to investigate the constructs of psychological contract, work engagement and turnover intention within the context of the African knowledge system (AKS). Research purpose: The objective of this article is to expand knowledge on how African black employees perceive and experience their psychological contract, work engagement and turnover intention. The article explains how these perceptions and lived experiences are influenced by the race and culture of African blacks. Motivation for the study: Although the constructs of relevance are continually studied, not enough emphasis is placed on the given constructs from an AKS perspective. Research approach/design and method: An explorative, qualitative, interpretive phenomenological research approach with open-ended interviews for data collection was implemented. A non-probability and purposeful sampling (N = 16) strategy was followed. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Main findings: African black employees’ perceptions and experiences regarding the psychological contract, work engagement and turnover intention are influenced by their race, culture and traditions (e.g. the spirit of ubuntu, weddings, traditional callings, funerals and church customs). Practical/managerial implications: African indigenous knowledge consciousness and diversity appreciation should be developed to ensure the effective implementation of human resources strategies and policies. Contribution/value-add: A unifying organisational culture and diversity management strategy that considers the needs of African black employees should be cultivated.