Look busy do nothing: does professional isolation and psychological strain of overqualified employee leads to goldbricking behaviour?

Abstract

Purpose

Drawing on person-job fit theory, this study examined the link between perceived overqualification (POQ), professional isolation, psychological strain and goldbricking behaviour. We also investigated the moderating influence of employee career self-management on the association between the POQ and professional isolation.

Design/methodology/approach

A time-lagged data approach were used to collect data from service sector organisations. The study model was analysed using PLS-SEM.

Findings

The results show that POQ is positively related to goldbricking behaviour. Professional isolation and psychological strain mediate the link between POQ and employee goldbricking behaviour. The mediated relationship between POQ and goldbricking behaviour through professional isolation was moderated by employee career self-management.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the existing literature by examining the novel concept of goldbricking behaviour in the context of person-job fit theory. The originality of this study lies in its nuanced investigation of the mediating role of professional isolation and psychological strain in the relationship between POQ and goldbricking behaviour. Additionally, this study adds value by examining the moderating influence of employee career self-management, offering practical insights for organisations.

Citation

Khan, J., Zhang, Q. and Salameh, A.A. (2024), "Look busy do nothing: does professional isolation and psychological strain of overqualified employee leads to goldbricking behaviour?", Career Development International, Vol. 29 No. 7, pp. 811-827. https://doi.org/10.1108/CDI-01-2024-0055