Abstract

In this study the psychological career resources, adaptability and hardiness (as a composite set of psychosocial career meta-competencies) of a convenience sample of 355 early-career human resource professionals were investigated in relation to their job embeddedness by means of a quantitative survey design. The sample consisted predominantly of black (92%) and female (71%) participants employed at managerial and staff levels in the South African service industry. A canonical correlation analysis indicated that self/other skills, career directedness, and the career adaptability competencies of concern, control and confidence significantly contributed to the participants’ sense of job-embedded fit. The findings may be used to inform career development support interventions aimed at assisting in the retention of valuable and talented staff.

Key words: Retention, psychological career resources, career adaptability, hardiness, job embeddedness, psychosocial career meta-competencies.