Multifaceted pathways from perceived overqualification to proactive work behavior in high-tech enterprises: Mediating role of competitive status motivation and moderating effect of role breadth self-efficacy

Xiumin Liu ()

Humanities and Social Sciences Letters, 2025, vol. 13, issue 2, 642-662

Abstract: This study examines the pathways through which perceived employee overqualification (PEO) influences proactive work behavior of employees (PBE) in high-tech enterprises focusing on the mediating role of competitive status motivation (CSM) and the moderating effect of role breadth self- efficacy (RBSE). Data were collected from 470 research and development employees in the Shenzhen High-Tech Industrial Park using structural equation modeling and moderated mediation analysis. The results indicate that PEO positively affects PBE directly and indirectly through Prestige-Driven Competitive Status Motivation (PCSM) and Dominance-Driven Competitive Status Motivation (DCSM). The moderating effect of PCSM is stronger than that of DCSM with RBSE enhancing the positive influence of prestige-driven motivation on proactive behavior. This study integrates psychological and individual motivational theories to understand better how PCSM and DCSM influence and shape employee proactive behaviors. The practical implications suggest that high-tech enterprises should focus on recognizing and nurturing overqualified employees. Organizations can enhance proactive behaviors, ultimately improving overall organizational performance by fostering intrinsic prestige-driven motivation and promoting RBSE.

Keywords: Competitive status motivation; High-tech enterprises; Perceived employee overqualification; Proactive work behavior; Role breadth self-efficacy. (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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