Precarious Employment in a VUCA Environment in the Hospitality Industry of Zimbabwe

Abstract

The research aimed at assessing the causes and psychological dynamics of precarious employment on precarious employees in the hotel and catering industry of Zimbabwe. The major reason behind is that precariousness disregards the human side and affects the psychological wellbeing of the same. The study employed a qualitative research approach which adopts capturing the experiences of the participants in their natural setting. The study made use of the case study research design which draws information from multiple sources to complement each other. Data was gathered through the use of primary and secondary information sources. The study used semi-structured interviews and documentary sources to gather research data. The total population for the study was 200 employees from which a sample of 20 participants were drawn based on the fullness and recurrence of research data. The study initially used purposive sampling where the participants with relevant information were selected. Data was analyzed through thematic approach which is mostly commended when dealing with emotional experiences of the research subjects. The research findings chronicled the perilous psychological impacts associated with precarious employment in organizations on casualised employees and coping strategies employed by the same in dealing with such challenges. The study concluded that organizations should consider the human side of the organization when instigating measures that embrace emotional wellness of the employees.