Perceived career mobility and preference job satisfaction and organisational commitment in the financial sector: an explorary study

Abstract

The objective of the study was to determine the relationship between perceived career mobility (measured by a perceived career mobility scale), career mobility preference (measured by a career mobility preference scale), job satisfaction (measured by the Minnesota Job Satisfaction Questionnaire), and organisational commitment (measured by the Organisational Commitment Scale). Research on the perceived career mobility, career mobility preference, job satisfaction and organisational commitment of financial professionals is considered important in the light of organisational concerns about retaining staff in the South African financial sector. A quantitative survey was conducted on a convenience sample (N = 82) of auditors, accountants and financial staff in the South African financial sector. Correlational and inferential statistical analyses revealed significant relationships between the variables of concern to this study. The results point to the importance of recognising how perceived mobility opportunities and preferences influence individuals’ job satisfaction and commitment in the design of talent retention strategies for professional staff members. This study is the starting point for measuring perceived career mobility and career mobility preference in the South African context