Self-talk: exploring and validating its dimensions among service sector employees

Abstract

Purpose This study is conducted with an aim to develop and validate self-talk scale for service sector employees designed to measure dimensions that are relevant for their conduct in job. Design/methodology/approach A three-phase study, which is conducted firstly, with a sample of 250 and then with another sample of 671 employees of service sector. Both factor exploration and confirmation are applied for testing the psychometric properties. Findings A well-developed and validated instrument comprising of 17 statements with four dimensions of self-talk, which are self-compassionate, rational, task oriented and self-regulation in social settings relevant to regulate ones job behaviour. Originality/value The instrument so developed becomes the first of its kind to be validated on organisational employees. The instrument provides an important means to estimate the cognitive process of self-talk, especially for employees working in fields that requires them to deal with people. Moreover, enabling individuals to understand the subtle nuances that take place in the mind while regulating ones behaviour. Thus, proving to be a promising instrument, as this can serve as a base for identifying the need for industrial training programmes or interventions.