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Understanding Employees’ Readiness for Change in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises: A Multidimensional Communication Framework

Author

Listed:
  • Cvjetković Matea

    (Research Associate Institute of Public Finance Smičiklasova 21, Zagreb Croatia)

  • Milovanović Bojan Morić

    (PhD Full Professor Libertas International University Croatia)

  • Babić Tihana

    (PhD Assistant professor VERN’ University Croatia)

Abstract

Drawing on internal communication and organizational change literature, this study develops a conceptual framework that examines the influence of internal communication on employee readiness for change. In theory, internal communication is recognized as an important prerequisite for employees’ perceptions and acceptance of change. Nevertheless, its role in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is not sufficiently studied, especially in the post-COVID-19 context which altered many communication preferences. To fill this gap, the proposed framework combines Internal Communication Satisfaction and perceived Quality of Change Communication, together with Work Demands and Information Overload as workplace stress-ors. The hypotheses were empirically tested through a quantitative survey of 454 employees from Croatian SMEs. Using a disjoint two-stage PLS-SEM approach, the findings confirmed that both Internal Communication Satisfaction and perceived Quality of Change Communication positively affect employee Readiness for Change. Results additionally revealed moderating and complementary mediating effects. The study has several theoretical contributions and offers practical implications for management.

Suggested Citation

  • Cvjetković Matea & Milovanović Bojan Morić & Babić Tihana, 2026. "Understanding Employees’ Readiness for Change in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises: A Multidimensional Communication Framework," South East European Journal of Economics and Business, Sciendo, vol. 21(2), pages 148-162.
    • Handle: RePEc:vrs:seejeb:v:21:y:2026:i:2:p:148-162:n:1009
    DOI: 10.2478/jeb-2026-0015
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    JEL classification:

    • M12 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - Personnel Management; Executives; Executive Compensation
    • M14 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - Corporate Culture; Diversity; Social Responsibility
    • D23 - Microeconomics - - Production and Organizations - - - Organizational Behavior; Transaction Costs; Property Rights
    • L26 - Industrial Organization - - Firm Objectives, Organization, and Behavior - - - Entrepreneurship

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