Job Search: A Multidisciplinary Review and Research Agenda

Abstract

Scholarly interest in job search has grown significantly over the years and can be located in diverse research streams: namely, economics, sociology and industrial/organizational psychology. This paper reviews these bodies of literature and makes a case for integration by proposing a multidisciplinary approach to understanding job-seeking behaviors. To this end, the paper categorizes the respective literatures on the basis of common themes located in a conceptual multidisciplinary model of job search behaviors and outcomes. This model provides a more focused understanding of the job search literature and how it has developed in the related disciplines. Based on the review and conceptual model presented, the paper draws attention to several key areas for future research to advance the field further.

Multiple Perspectives to Successful Employment Outcomes

“…This research aims to examine (i) the factors contributing to job search anxiety (JSA) among university leavers, and its relationship with (ii) job search behaviours during university-towork transitions and (iii) job search outcomes upon graduation. In doing so, this research responds to recent call for studies focusing on the emotional experience of job search (Manroop and Richardson, 2015), particularly for new entrants into the labour market (Boswell et al, 2012).…”

“…Research based on unemployed samples shows that financial strain during job search impairs psychological wellbeing (Price, Choi, & Vinokur, 2002), yet social support may be able to counteract such negative effects (Lui, Huang, & Wang, 2014). Thus, building on multidisciplinary models of job search (Manroop and Richardson, 2015) and research on psychological stress (Lazarus & Folkman, 1984), we expect the situational context (i.e., financial strain and social support) and anticipation of barriers in access to graduate jobs to contribute to job search related anxiety.…”

Reducing online application redundancy: Effects on applicant attrition and quality

“…Another framework applicable to job application forms is an economic one, involving the use of a cost‐benefits analysis. This line of reasoning can be supported using the work of Manroop and Richardson (), who discussed how someone using an economic model would identify costs and benefits of various job search methods to determine which one to use. Our research extends that notion by proposing that the perceived costs and benefits of applying to a specific job may drive the choice of whether to apply or not.…”

Disney strategy for Japanese university students' career guidance: A mixed methods pilot study

“…Recently the quality of job-search has been scientifically investigated, because it has become more common in today's rapidly changing job market (Côté, Saks & Zikic 2006;Manroop & Richardson 2015;Saks 2006). Job-search refers to information gathering for potential job opportunities, obtaining and comparing offered jobs, and choosing the best from the offered jobs (Barber, Daly, Giannantonio & Philips 1994).…”