Investigation of the Impact of Social Climate on Employee Performance: A Comprehensive Analysis

Abstract

This study examines the impact of organisational social climate on employee performance, focusing on public-sector employees at Diyarbakır Kayapınar Municipality. Social climate, as a multidimensional concept, encompasses interpersonal harmony, managerial support, communication, work ethics, and workplace relationships. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected through validated survey instruments and analysed using a statistical package. Findings reveal a statistically significant, positive relationship between social climate and employee performance, with the social climate dimensions collectively explaining 70% of the variance in performance (R2=0.70). Specifically, Interpersonal Harmony (p<0.05) emerged as the strongest and most influential dimension, followed by Organisational Support (p<0.05), Intragroup Communication (p<0.05) and Work Ethics (p<0.05). However, Professional Solidarity and Non-Work Relations did not significantly affect performance (p > 0.05). The results support existing literature while also offering new insights into which dimensions of social climate are most critical in a public service context. The study highlights the importance of fostering a positive workplace atmosphere, especially prioritising harmony and organisational support, to enhance motivation, collaboration, and individual productivity. Accordingly, strengthening a positive social climate is considered a key factor in improving employee motivation, collaboration, and individual productivity, and may provide valuable insight.