Learning from career preparedness: examining the influence of person-environment fit on decent work expectations

PurposeThis study aims to examine the influence of person-environment fit on decent work expectations and the mediating role of career preparedness in the relationship between person-environment fit and decent work expectations.Design/methodology/approachStructural equation modeling analysis was used to examine the relationships based on 356 economically disadvantaged college students (Mage = 20.3 years, SD = 1.27, 71.9% female) from several Chinese universities.FindingsThe result confirmed that person-environment fit significantly influenced decent work expectations directly and indirectly through career preparedness. A new contextual support (i.e. person-environment fit) was identified on decent work outcome expectations and the learning mechanism underlying the effect of this predictor.Originality/valueThis study significantly contributes to the literature by addressing the gaps within the social cognitive model of career self-management, specifically by exploring the under-researched role of person-environment fit as a key antecedent of decent work expectations. By doing so, it expands the understanding of how alignment between individual attributes and work environments influences career outcomes. Additionally, the study establishes a comprehensive framework that integrates person-environment fit, career preparedness and decent work expectations, providing a novel perspective for future research and practical applications in career development.