The effect of occupational self-efficacy on work performance through intrinsic work motivation

Abstract

Purpose Today, organizations work hard to improve the motivation of their employees and related knowledge, skills and abilities to enhance work performance. Among many other variables, self-efficacy proved to have an influential role in work performance. The main purpose of the current study is to investigate the role of occupational self-efficacy on work performance through intrinsic motivation by using a longitudinal analysis. Design/methodology/approach Participants were 76 employees from diverse organizations operating in an organized industrial region in Turkey. Participants filled in a weekly questionnaire during ten consecutive weeks. Findings Results of multilevel analyses confirmed our hypotheses by showing that occupational self-efficacy and intrinsic motivation have a significant influential role over work performance, and intrinsic motivation serve as a partial mediator in this relationship. Originality/value The study findings also reveal important information for organizational and managerial practices to improve employee motivation and performance.