You want my commitment, earn my trust: understanding how and when inclusive supervisors increase black employees' organizational commitment

Purpose The goal of our study is to extend the management research that centers Black employees' workplace experiences. To accomplish this, we rely on social exchange theory to develop and test a model that clarifies the importance of supervisory inclusiveness for Black employees. Design/methodology/approach Our study relies on survey responses from 338 Black employees. Findings We find that supervisory inclusiveness conveys positive expectations and feelings that foster Black employees' organizational trust. In turn, Black employees who trust their employers reciprocate with increased levels of affective commitment. We also find that Black employee organization-based self-esteem amplifies the impact of supervisory inclusiveness on their organizational trust. Practical implications Supervisors who are cognizant about the role race plays in shaping the workplace experiences of Black employees will do a better job at leading inclusively, which can foster affective commitment for their Black employees. Originality/value Our study enhances our understanding of how and when supervisory inclusiveness positively impacts Black employees' affective commitment.