Abstract
The work environment in Nigerian financial institutions reflects the polarization and segregation of employees into different employment statuses. However, the implications of this on employee task identity are rarely discussed. This study, therefore, examined the difference in the task identity between the outsourced and core employees in Nigerian financial institutions. A cross-sectional survey research design was employed. A total of 359 employees were selected from six commercial banks in Southeast Nigeria using a multistage sampling method. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Pearson’s chi-square test was used to analyze data at the bi-variate level, while logistic regression analysis was used at the multi-variate level, all at p<0.05. Outsourced employees experienced a lower level of task identity than core employees. Employment status (OR =5.501, 95% CI 3.051-9.919) and education (OR=2.896, 95% CI 1.329-6.313) were significantly associated with task identity. Banks should design enriched jobs that will enable the completion of entire job functions for all employees without discrimination or favor to any groups or persons, as this will help employees to identify with their tasks when completed and feel pride and important, as well as enhance employee motivation, satisfaction, and commitment.