Implicit Theories of Work and Job Fit: Implications for Job and Life Satisfaction

Abstract

Extending the implicit theory perspective to the domain of work, we established the factor structure of a newly developed measure and then investigated how destiny theories (potential careers are or are not “meant to be”) interact with job fit to predict job and life satisfaction. Results revealed Destiny Theory × Job Fit interaction effects. Specifically, better job fit predicted higher life satisfaction for individuals with strong (relative to weak) destiny theories. We further examined the indirect effect of the Job Fit × Destiny Theory interaction with life satisfaction through increased job satisfaction. Results supported the proposed model.

Acknowledgments

Authors contributed equally and are listed alphabetically.

Notes

Note. Factor loadings less than .30 are omitted. EFA = exploratory factor analysis; CFA = confirmatory factor analysis.

*p < .05. **p < .01. ***p < .001.

Past research has created both sum and mean composite scores. We used a mean score here. We also examined the data using a mean score of standardized items due to the different rating scales. All analyses, using sum, mean, and the standardized mean, replicate and conclusions do not change.

*p < .05. **p < .01. ***p < .001.