Predicting typical and maximum performance with measures of motivation and abilities

Abstract

The current study integrated the literature on selection tests of typical versus maximum performance (Cronbach, 1960) with the literature on job performance under typical and maximum performance conditions (Sackett, Zedeck, & Fogli, 1988). Tests of maximum performance (i.e., measures of task-related knowledge, skills, and abilities) loaded onto a different factor than tests of typical performance (i.e., measures of task-related motivation). Nevertheless, these two factors were moderately correlated (r = .44). Further, both task-related ability and motivation predicted typical performance. Maximum performance was predicted only by ability.