This paper explains relationship marketing (RM) and discusses the benefits to customers and firms applying RM. Nine dimensions central to making RM successful are assessed. These…
Abstract
This paper explains relationship marketing (RM) and discusses the benefits to customers and firms applying RM. Nine dimensions central to making RM successful are assessed. These are: trust, commitment, social bonding, empathy, experiences, fulfilment of promise, customer satisfaction, internal relationship marketing, and communication. The researcher then describes three personal experiences of eating out in three different restaurants and discusses good RM techniques applied deliberately or otherwise by these establishments.
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Ana María Salazar, María Fernanda Reyes, María Paula Gómez, Olga Pedraza, Angela Gisselle Lozano, María Camila Montalvo and Juan Camilo Rodriguez Fandiño
This paper aims to identify psychosocial, demographic and health risk factors associated with depression in older people.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to identify psychosocial, demographic and health risk factors associated with depression in older people.
Design/methodology/approach
A correlational study with 281 independent and autonomous persons of the community over 60 years old from Bogotá was conducted. The three instruments used to measure the variables included in the data analyses were Demographic and Health Data Questionnaire, Short version of 15 items of Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment Test (MoCA).
Findings
Fifteen percent of the participants presented depression. Depression was associated with different demographic, low social support and health factors in this population group and was particularly high in women. Being a woman with poor social support networks and a previous history of depressive episodes should be considered as determining factors within a clinical risk profile for depression in older adulthood. It is essential to design prevention strategies focused on women and on the development of better social support in old age.
Originality/value
Depression is a prevalent and highly disabling disease, when it is suffered by an older person it is associated with higher mortality, functional dependence, poor physical health, worse quality of life indicators and psychological well-being. In the elderly, the clinical diagnosis of depression is difficult, as it has a high comorbidity and is often confused with other health conditions prevalent during older adulthood.
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Filzah Md Isa, Shaista Noor, Goh Wei Wei, Sharifah Diyana Binti Syed Hussain, Hairunnisa Mohamad Ibrahim and Muhd Afiq Syazwan Ahmdon
Malaysia is considered to be a relatively young country as compared to other older countries such as Japan, China and Australia in terms of the ageing population. However, until…
Abstract
Purpose
Malaysia is considered to be a relatively young country as compared to other older countries such as Japan, China and Australia in terms of the ageing population. However, until 2035, Malaysia will be in the ageing group countries as 15% of the entire population will be above 60 years of age. This situation is quite alarming as more and more ageing care centres will be required to fulfill the ongoing demands of the ageing population. The elderly care centres in Malaysia are categorised as public (sponsored by the government), private, and charity based that comes under religious centres. Currently, there are about 365 registered elderly care centres working in the main states of Malaysia, including Sabah and Sarawak, two states of the East Malaysia. Due to the importance of ageing population issues, the present study is conducted to explore the demographics facet of Malaysian’s elderly care centres. The main reason behind that lies on the fact that many of these centres are still labelled as being not well equipped and lacking behind in trained staff, equipment and also suffering from severe financial constraints but some still capable of working on a sustainability basis.
Design/methodology/approach
Qualitative Research Strategy has been adopted, and 28 centres throughout Malaysia are included in this study. About 18 Operators from different centres and 15 caregivers were interviewed to get the holistic view of ageing care and facilities in their respective centres.
Findings
The results highlight that the majority of centres are not receiving any financial help from the government, and few centres are doing small business such as supplying consumable medical and non-medical items and providing renting and rehabilitation centres facilities to sustain. The caregivers are facing issues such as excess workload, less salary, peer conflicts and non-cooperative centre leadership.
Originality/value
The present study may help to provide useful information to the policymakers, which enables them to formulate the strategies for ageing care centres in Malaysia. As this study provides insight of components that have an impact on the overall wellbeing of elderly care centres, hence, it could help the care services providers to act as a rising star for Malaysian’s social life comfort.
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Ahmad Rafiki, Muhammad Dharma Tuah Putra Nasution and Yossie Rossanty
This study aims to examine the relationship between operational CRM technologies, human CRM resources, organizational CRM resources and customer satisfaction toward Islamic-based…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine the relationship between operational CRM technologies, human CRM resources, organizational CRM resources and customer satisfaction toward Islamic-based hotels in Indonesia. The role of customer knowledge is examined as the moderating variable in each relationship, intertwining both independent and dependent variables.
Design/methodology/approach
This study adopts a quantitative deductive approach. Descriptive and other statistical analyses, namely, confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation model of Smart partial least squares, are used. The questionnaires are disseminated to employees of 24 Islamic-based hotels located in Indonesia. The selection of 136 respondents is made using the stratified sampling technique.
Findings
The results established that the three variables of technological resources, human resources and organizational resources have a positive and significant effect on customer satisfaction. Next, customer knowledge moderates the effect of technological resources, human resources and organizational resources on customer satisfaction insignificantly.
Originality/value
This study highlighted the role of the newly adopted customer knowledge as a moderating factor in the relationship between the three components of CRM and customer satisfaction in a vulnerable industry (hotels, especially the Islamic-based one) in a developing country.
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Ataul Karim Patwary, Nor Rabiatul Adawiyah Nor Azam, Muhammad Umair Ashraf, Abdullah Muhamed Yusoff, Waqas Mehmood and Md Karim Rabiul
The purpose of this study is to examine the role of knowledge management practices, organisational commitment and capacity building on employee performance in the hotel industry…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to examine the role of knowledge management practices, organisational commitment and capacity building on employee performance in the hotel industry. This study also investigated the mediating role of organisational commitment and capacity building between knowledge management practices and employee performance.
Design/methodology/approach
A quantitative approach and questionnaire survey were used to collect data from hotel employees from Malaysia. Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to collect data from 291 participants, and partial least squares structural equation modelling was used to analyse the hypotheses.
Findings
The results of this study confirm that knowledge management practices positively and significantly affect knowledge-employee performance. Employees achieve this performance through the mediating influence of organisational commitment and capacity building culture.
Practical implications
This study offers several implications for Malaysian practitioners and policymakers regarding learning and knowledge management practices in the hospitality industry. The results suggest that organisations can manage knowledge assets and key processes of the organisational environment to create and use knowledge to improve sustainable employee performance through knowledge management practices.
Originality/value
This study sheds light on the knowledge management literature by examining the effect of knowledge management practices on organisational commitment, particularly in the hospitality industry in Malaysia.
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Fahru Azwa Mohd Zain, Siti Fariha Muhamad, Hamdy Abdullah, Sheikh Ahmad Faiz Sheikh Ahmad Tajuddin and Wan Amalina Wan Abdullah
This conceptual paper aims to delineate a comprehensive blueprint for the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles within the framework of Takaful…
Abstract
Purpose
This conceptual paper aims to delineate a comprehensive blueprint for the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles within the framework of Takaful operations, guided by the principles of Maqasid al-Shariah. The primary purpose is to establish a robust foundation for the sustainable transformation of Takaful, aligning it with ethical finance and Islamic values.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a theoretical research approach, this study delves into the multifaceted dimensions of ESG principles and the principles of Maqasid al-Shariah within the context of Takaful operations. The 17 SDGs/ESG principles and Maqasid al-Shariah are integrated to give a thorough framework for comprehending the disclosure index from western and Islamic ethical viewpoints. The research critically analyses current literature, scholarly works and authoritative sources, drawing inspiration from established approaches. Qualitative content analysis examines and compiles pertinent ideas, and the expert validates the disclosure index. It identifies key convergence, compatibility and divergence points between ESG principles and Maqasid al-Shariah to construct a comprehensive framework for Maqasid-driven ESG integration in Takaful.
Findings
The paper presents a well-defined blueprint for Maqasid-driven ESG integration in Takaful, revealing substantial areas of alignment between the two frameworks. This alignment is particularly pronounced in protecting life, religion, intellect, lineage and wealth. The blueprint underscores the potential of harmonising ESG principles with the principles of Maqasid al-Shariah, providing Takaful operators with a roadmap for enhancing their ethical credibility, societal impact and environmental stewardship.
Research limitations/implications
The blueprint outlined in this study opens new avenues for research at the intersection of Islamic ethics, responsible finance and sustainable development and signals the necessity of developing a standardised disclosure index. This index will serve as a vital tool for Takaful operators to transparently communicate their commitment to ethical and sustainable practices, facilitating a deeper understanding of Maqasid-driven ESG integration and bolstering transparency for all stakeholders. Further research into this disclosure index’s practical implementation, empirical validation and strategic implications is encouraged to advance responsible finance within the Takaful industry.
Practical implications
The proposed blueprint provides Takaful operators with a practical guide to align their operations with both ethical finance and Islamic principles. Embracing the principles of responsible governance, societal welfare and environmental sustainability, Takaful operators can enhance their product offerings, attract socially conscious stakeholders and contribute positively to both financial and ethical objectives.
Social implications
Integrating Maqasid-driven ESG principles in Takaful signifies a commitment to broader social well-being. Through initiatives aimed at safeguarding life, religion, intellect, lineage and wealth, Takaful operators can play a pivotal role in fostering social cohesion, empowering communities and actively contributing to sustainable development goals.
Originality/value
This conceptual paper contributes to the field by presenting a unique blueprint for integrating ESG principles within Takaful operations, guided by Maqasid al-Shariah. The novelty of this approach lies in its holistic perspective on ethical finance, aligning Islamic values with contemporary global ethical imperatives. The blueprint offered here represents an original framework for responsible Takaful practices that resonate with evolving ethical standards and the enduring principles of Islamic finance.
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Maraj Rahman Sofi, Irfan Bashir, Mohammad Ashraf Parry and Altaf Dar
The study aims to investigate the effect of four customer relationship management (CRM) dimensions, namely, customer orientation, customer relationship management organization…
Abstract
Purpose
The study aims to investigate the effect of four customer relationship management (CRM) dimensions, namely, customer orientation, customer relationship management organization, managing knowledge and CRM based technology, on customer satisfaction in the hospitality sector of Kashmir.
Design/methodology/approach
A survey instrument with a slight modification is adapted from literature and is exercised on the customers of three- and four-star hotels operating in Kashmir. A total of 176 responses received using systematic random sampling were subjected to exploratory factor and regression analyses to uncover the underlying relationships among dependent and independent variables.
Findings
The results revealed a significant and positive relationship between CRM dimensions, namely, customer orientation, managing knowledge and CRM organization on customer satisfaction. Though the results also indicate a significant positive effect of CRM-based technology on customer satisfaction, the magnitude of this effect is very weak. This suggests that hotel organizations use technology as a mere tool to store customer information only. Thus, CRM-based technology should be used by the hotels to analyze customer information and, subsequently, design customized products. This will unravel the full potential of the technology and lead to better customer satisfaction.
Practical implications
The findings of this study provide significant insights to the practitioners to understand the role of successfully implementing a CRM strategy. It reflects that establishing an effective CRM strategy helps managers in improving customer satisfaction and in maintaining a long-term relationship with customers to achieve the organizational goals. Thus, establishing an efficient and effective CRM strategy should be (one of) the key objectives for all hotel managers. Moreover, the hotels that successfully implement CRM strategy and manage customer knowledge properly will reap the rewards in terms of better customer loyalty and long-term sustainable profitability.
Originality/value
This study approaches the implementation of CRM strategy from a customer perspective with a specific focus on investigating the effect of four CRM dimensions on customer satisfaction in the hospitality sector. This will provide a novel impetus to the hotel managers to devise and manage a CRM strategy that leads to (better) customer satisfaction.
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Muhammad Waqas, Meng Qingfeng, Naveed Ahmad and Muzaffar Iqbal
Environmental sanctions and pressure from governments and customers can play an essential role in driving the manufacturing industry to adopt more sustainable practices and reduce…
Abstract
Purpose
Environmental sanctions and pressure from governments and customers can play an essential role in driving the manufacturing industry to adopt more sustainable practices and reduce their environmental impact. Thus, this study explores how pressures from customers and governments influence sustainable firm performance and customer satisfaction through green production, green creativity, green brand innovativeness and green brand image in the Chinese manufacturing industry? Further, the moderating role of green knowledge was analyzed.
Design/methodology/approach
640 valid responses from the Chinese manufacturing industry were collected through web-based and physical surveys and later assessed through structural equation modeling.
Findings
The findings of this study validated the direct relationship between the proposed construct. Mediation analysis found the mediating role of green brand innovativeness, green brand image green and customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the moderating impact of green knowledge was also proved.
Originality/value
The empirical findings of this research filled the literature gap on cleaner production and sustainable firm performance by focusing on green production, green creativity and green knowledge in the Chinese manufacturing industry context.
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Muhammad Tahir, Arshad Hayat, Kashif Rashid, Muhammad Asim Afridi and Yasir Bin Tariq
The new growth literature in general is very optimistic about the positive impact that human capital has on the economic growth of countries. Based on this argument, the current…
Abstract
Purpose
The new growth literature in general is very optimistic about the positive impact that human capital has on the economic growth of countries. Based on this argument, the current paper focusses to investigate the impact of different types of human capital on economic growth.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper utilizes data for the period 1998 to 2017 and employs suitable econometric techniques.
Findings
It is found that it is not the stock of human capital rather its utilization in terms of average working hours that matters for higher growth. Other than human capital, trade openness and investment are positively associated with growth. On the other hand, inflation has an insignificant impact while employment level has a negative impact on growth. Moreover, for developing countries, the study also revealed that stock of human capital has negatively and average working hours has positively impacted economic growth. Finally, domestic investment and employment level appeared to be the main growth determinants in developing countries.
Research limitations/implications
Policymakers are suggested to ensure the maximum utilization of working hours, trade openness and domestic investment in improving economic growth in OECD countries.
Originality/value
This study has visualized the impact of human capital on economic growth from a new perspective and hence would be useful for policymakers.
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Mirza Mohammad Didarul Alam, Rashed Al Karim and Wardha Habiba
The present study investigates the moderating role of customer trust in customer relationship management (CRM) components and customer loyalty relationships in the context of the…
Abstract
Purpose
The present study investigates the moderating role of customer trust in customer relationship management (CRM) components and customer loyalty relationships in the context of the baking sector in Bangladesh.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected through a survey using a structured questionnaire from 350 customers of commercial banks in Bangladesh.
Findings
The key finding is that all CRM components (customer orientation, customer advocacy and customer knowledge) except customer engagement have positive impact on customer loyalty. Moreover, customer trust only moderates the relationship between customer knowledge and customer loyalty, whereas other CRM components and customer loyalty do not moderate by trust.
Originality/value
The findings of the study add to the substantial pool of knowledge on CRM components, customer trust and customer loyalty literature. More specifically, the moderating role of customer trust between customer knowledge and customer loyalty is the novel contribution of this research which will enrich the existing CRM literature particularly in the banking sector of Bangladesh.