Corporate social responsibility and job seekers' application intention: a mediated moderation model of calling and value congruence
Career Development International
ISSN: 1362-0436
Article publication date: 15 December 2020
Issue publication date: 18 January 2021
Abstract
Purpose
This study investigated how and when corporate social responsibility (CSR) fosters job seekers' application intention using a mediated moderation model. Specifically, the study explored the positive effect of CSR on job seekers' intention to apply, the moderating role of applicants' calling and the mediating role of value congruence in the relationship between the person and organization.
Design/methodology/approach
The study sample consisted of 259 college students in South Korea. A quasi-experimental design and survey were used. Data were analyzed using a regression-based path analysis to test a mediated moderation model.
Findings
The results showed that CSR significantly increased job seekers' application intention, which was moderated by their calling. Furthermore, the interaction between CSR and calling on application intention was fully mediated by the value congruence between person and organization.
Practical implications
The results suggest that engaging in active CSR can effectively attract job applicants, especially those with a high calling, who are known as qualified workers needed for the organization. The findings can provide a competitive advantage to organizations in this highly competitive environment.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the understanding of the micro-effect of CSR by showing the positive influence of CSR on job seekers' application intention. Further, by evaluating a mediated moderation model, this study advances the field's understanding of the underlying mechanisms of CSR, especially in terms of calling and value congruence.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Funding: This work was supported by the Yonsei University Research Grant of 2020.
Citation
Choi, J., Park, Y. and Sohn, Y.W. (2021), "Corporate social responsibility and job seekers' application intention: a mediated moderation model of calling and value congruence", Career Development International, Vol. 26 No. 1, pp. 65-82. https://doi.org/10.1108/CDI-02-2020-0030
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited