Procrastination in the workplace: The role of hierarchical career plateau

Abstract

Workplace procrastination adversely affects any company’s activity. The purpose of the research is to examine the hierarchical career plateau (HCP) perceived by the employees and the workplace procrastination (WP) variables, and to determine the role of the HCP, if any, in WP of employees. The methodological framework of the research includes career development theory and rational emotive behavior theory. Utilizing the screening model and survey technique, the data were obtained from 367 employees in Zonguldak location of Turkey. To evaluate the data, the authors use the methods of statistical and econometric analysis (confirmatory factor analysis, correlation analysis, regression analysis, Independent Sample T test and One-Way ANOVA Test), as well as the face-to-face survey method. According to the research findings, there is a positive correlation between the HCP and WP, and 1-unit increase in the HCP results in an increase of 0.751 units in the WP behavior. In terms of socio-demographic factors of workers, the study shows that WP does not differ significantly according to gender, age, education level, income level, job sector and work experience. The research results indicate that the HCP is among the primary factors influencing the timely performance of official duties. The theoretical and practical significance of the study is to minimize employees’ unwanted work behavior and contribute to the HCP and WP literature.