The Impact of Career Adaptability and Social Support on Job Search Self-Efficacy: A Case Study in Malaysia

The objective of the current study is to examine the effect of career adaptability (conceptualized as a multidimensional construct: concern, control, curiosity, and confidence) and social support on job search self-efficacy and career outlook among students in higher education institutions in Malaysia. Graduates' employability is of great concern to policymakers as it impacts the economic and social development. It is crucial to enhance students' career-related skills as well as their adaptability competencies towards the fast-paced changing dynamic of the job market demand. Data were collected from a convenient sample of 358 respondents from final and second final year students representing several disciplines. To validate the model we used the covariance structural equation modeling with maximum likelihood estimation. Several fit indices have been used: chi-square index (chi(2)), normed-fit chi-square, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA), Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI), and Comparative Fit Index (CFI). The analysis revealed that career adaptability and social support have positive effects on job search self-efficacy and career outlook. The findings suggest that students' perceived concern, control, curiosity and confidence as dimensions of career adaptability and social support from family, friends and peers, are critical factors in predicting their career outlook and their ability to find career opportunities.