Leadership attributes valence in self-concept and occupational self-efficacy

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between leadership-relevant attributes and occupational self-efficacy in management students. It is assumed that leadership-relevant attributes are related to high self-efficacy beliefs. Design/methodology/approach – In the present study management students from three different countries, namely Germany, Australia, and India, described to what degree they possess task- and person-oriented leadership attributes and indicate their occupational self-efficacy for their future profession. Data were analysed using regression analyses. Findings – As expected, leadership-relevant attributes were related to occupational self-efficacy. Some support was found for the assumption that ratings of the importance of relevant attributes moderates the relationship between reported leadership-relevant attributes and occupational self-efficacy but only for task-oriented attributes. Research limitations/implications – The sample size was small so that comparisons between subgroups were not possible. All data were self-reported. Practical implications – The results are relevant for career counselling. Looking at self-description of individuals in terms of attributes relevant to their future job rather than working directly on their occupational self-efficacy could be emphasised. Originality/value – The study provides initial hints at the relationship between self-description and occupational self-efficacy in connection with future managers.