Trait gratitude and job search: the mediating role of perceived employability

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of trait gratitude on job search behaviour (preparatory and active) for job seekers approaching graduation. The mediating role of perceived employability is examined.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from job seekers (n = 143) in their final month of study in two waves with a one-month time lag between first and second data collection.

Findings

Structural equation modelling analyses revealed that trait gratitude was significantly and positively associated with perceived employability. Perceived employability mediated the relationship between trait gratitude and preparatory job search, but not active job search.

Research limitations/implications

This study extends research on job search by highlighting the applicability of trait gratitude to the job search process.

Practical implications

Career counsellors should consider trait gratitude as relevant for program development to address the self-regulation of personal resources during job search.

Originality/value

This study is the first step towards connecting trait gratitude to the job search literature. The study identifies trait gratitude as a distal personal resource important for self-regulation of a proximal personal resource (i.e. perceived employability) and subsequent job search behaviour.

Citation

Harrison, J.A., Budworth, M.-H. and Halinski, M. (2021), "Trait gratitude and job search: the mediating role of perceived employability", Career Development International, Vol. 26 No. 2, pp. 238-251. https://doi.org/10.1108/CDI-08-2019-0206