The power of playful work design in the hospitality industry: Mapping the implications for employee engagement, taking charge and the moderation of contrived fun

In the fast-paced and customer-centric hospitality industry, where employee engagement and proactive behavior are critical for service excellence, organizations face the challenge of fostering a motivated workforce. This paper explores how integrating play into work through Playful Work Design can enhance employee engagement and taking charge behaviors. Drawing on Self-Determination Theory, we propose a process model wherein playful work design, specifically designing fun and designing competition, positively influences employees’ taking charge behavior through enhanced engagement. Furthermore, we explore the moderating role of contrived fun—fun activities consciously organized by managers—on the relationship…