Abstract

Although researches have shown that social competencies are related to work performance, relatively few studies have attempted to identify the moderating effect of biographical factors, which may affect the relationships between these two variables. This study examines the moderating effect of age groups on the relationship between social competencies and work performance. Data were gathered from 210 Malaysian employees at the Department of Agriculture. Theoretical model and hypothesis in this study were tested using Moderated Multiple Regression analysis. Results revealed that age groups (younger employees vs. older employees) significantly affected the relationship between social competencies and work performance among respondents; where the relationship was found stronger for older employees.

Key words: Social competencies, work performance, age groups, moderated multiple regression.