The mediator role of personal growth initiative in the effect of career satisfaction on task and contextual performance

Abstract

Introduction. This study provides new insights into the impact of career satisfaction on performance through a multi-dimensionality approach, and a mediator variable. Objective. The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between career satisfaction, personal growth initiative, task performance, and contextual performance. Method. The research was designed with a quantitative and correlational method. Data were collected from 213 public and private sector employees working in different cities and occupational groups in Turkey. Hypotheses of the research were tested by bootstrapping regression analysis performed with 5000 derivative samples. Results. Career satisfaction contributes positively to explaining personal growth initiative, task performance, and contextual performance. Besides, the personal growth initiative makes a positive contribution to explaining task performance and contextual performance. In addition, the most important finding of the study is that personal growth initiative positively mediates the effect of career satisfaction on task performance and contextual performance. Another original output of the study is the adaptation of task performance and contextual performance scales used in the research into Turkish. Conclusion. In order to fulfill the requirements of the changing business life, employees must first be aware of their own needs, give importance to their personal development to meet these needs, and be on a career path where they will feel satisfied. On the other hand, managers should implement various approaches that will understand their employees’ career and personal development expectations.