Abstract

The issue regarding the qualifications of workers compared to the requirements of a particular job has become an increasingly significant factor in contemporary organization, mainly due to the increasing number of overqualified individuals working in jobs that do not provide sufficient. Although the traditional perspective regarding overqualification has been linked to negative job attitudes and performance of such workers, contemporary research has demonstrated that such a phenomenon may be linked to various benefits in the psychological and performance domains as well. Drawing from Self-Determination Theory, the current study investigates the possible impact of such a perception on organizational performance via intrinsic motivation if there is a supportive organizational environment. It also provides practical guidance for organizations to effectively utilize overqualified employees by fostering autonomy, opportunities, and an environment to apply their skills and knowledge. The research was conducted using a quantitative research method whereby a cross-sectional survey research design was utilized. The sample size comprised 390 participants drawn from the public and private sectors. Structured questionnaires were administered online and in hard copies to the participants. All variables in the study were measured using existing reliable and valid scales. The data analysis involved the use of the SPSS software package, where methods such as descriptive statistics, reliability testing, correlation, regression, mediation, and moderation analysis via Hayes’ process Macro were carried out. As per the results of this study, overqualified individuals are likely to experience increased levels of competence due to their perception of their skills, knowledge, and education. Moreover, the study highlights the significance of having an environment that enables the occurrence of the psychological phenomenon by authorizing the overqualified employees to make use of their skills. In general, the results indicate that overqualification does not have to be viewed as a negative experience. On the contrary, when coupled with intrinsic motivation and fostered in a positive work climate, it has the potential to positively influence organizational performance.

Keywords

Overqualification perception intrinsic motivation supportive work environment organizational performance