Strength in adversity: The influence of psychological capital on job search

Abstract

Summary This study examined the influence of psychological capital on job search among displaced employees. On the basis of a sample of 179 retrenched professionals, managers, executives, and technicians, we found that psychological capital (self‐efficacy, hope, optimism, and resilience) was positively related with displaced employees' level of perceived employability, a coping resource. Perceived employability was positively related with problem‐focused and symptom‐focused coping strategies. Whereas problem‐focused coping was positively related with preparatory and active job search, symptom‐focused coping strategy was not. The relationship between psychological capital and preparatory and active job search was mediated by perceived employability and problem‐focused coping. Implications of our findings are discussed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.