The Hidden Cost of Mandatory Unpaid Overtime: How and When Mandatory Unpaid Overtime Undermines Subsequent Motivation to Work

ABSTRACT In many countries workers can be required to work extra hours for which they receive little or no remuneration. How and when such mandatory unpaid overtime affects employees' subsequent motivation to work, however, remains largely under researched. This study investigates the impact of mandatory unpaid overtime on employees' motivation to work the next day, the within‐person process (how) as well as the buffering and recovery mechanisms (when). Data on mandatory unpaid overtime, psychological detachment and motivation to work the next day were collected through diaries over a 12‐day period while the participants commented on job resources on the first day. Artificial Intelligence (AI) facial recognition technology was applied to capture emotions. Multilevel analysis revealed that mandatory unpaid overtime results in negative emotions, which subsequently undermine employees' motivation to work the next day, job resources buffer the impact of overtime on negative emotions, and psychological detachment weakens the impact of negative emotions on motivation to work the next day. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.