Predictors of job-search behaviors among Italian job-centers users

Introduction: Reaching a deeper understanding of job–search behaviors is essential in order to improve ways individuals can enter and remain into the labour market, especially in countries like Italy, characterized by increasing levels of unemployment and inefficient job–centers. Several psychological and situational factors predict job-search behaviors which, in turn, affect chances of reemployment. Objectives. This paper aimed to explore the role of several psychosocial (i.e. proactive personality and job-search self-efficacy), biographical (i.e. educational level) and socio-economic (i.e. social support and financial hardship) variables as predictors of job-search behaviors, building upon the theoretical model by Kanfer, Wanberg and Kantrowitz (2001). Methods. Data were collected among 505 Italian job-centers users via a self-report questionnaire. Hierarchical linear regressions were used to evaluate associations between variables and identify potential mediated/moderated effects. Results. Educational level, proactive personality and, above all, job-search self-efficacy proved to be main predictors of preparatory and active job-search behaviors; mediated and moderated effects were also found. Conclusions. Results were discussed on the basis of the current literature and provided an original and innovative contribution to this topic about the Italian situation which was largely unexamined. Moreover, evidence from this study can guide practitioners to tailor their counseling and re-employment support interventions.