Proposing a systematic framework for channelized job search: The role of goal orientation

Abstract

Channelized job search powered by perceived employability could help graduates to successfully launch a sustainable career and navigate the job market effectively. The paper develops novel ways to improve the job search process by detailing the interlinking mechanism between perceived employability and active job search. The authors also enquired about the intervening role played by preparatory job search and job search learning goal orientation. For this purpose, cross-sectional data of 317 management graduates in India were collected and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was conducted on the data using IBM Amos. The study found that enhanced perceived employability had a major impact on active job search behaviour. It was also found that it is through job search learning goal orientation and preparatory job search behaviour that perceived employability is associated with an active job search. The study has theoretical and practical implications. Theoretically, it links the theory of planned job search behaviour to employability research. Practically, it provides guidelines for universities and career counsellors on how to help students with their job searching. This is one of the first studies to look into the sequential mechanism through which employability perceptions impact active job searching.