Error Climate and How Individuals Deal with Errors in the Workplace

Abstract

This cross-sectional field study investigates the effect of contextual influences (error climate) on reactions to errors (how individuals deal with errors). We surveyed n = 830 apprentices in various trainee positions in the hotel and restaurant industry. The responses show that perceived error climate in the training company, as well as the self-concept of professional competence, predict the way in which apprentices deal individually with errors. Moreover, the findings indicate that both—socio-demographic group and the characteristics of the organization—also influence affective responses to errors.