Examining the Influence of Athletic Participation in Evaluation of Entry-Level Positions In Financial Services: An Application of Role Congruity Theory

Abstract

Role congruity theory was utilized to examine whether a candidate’s participation in intercollegiate athletics influenced hiring preferences of managers in the financial services industry; an industry with a majority of leadership positions occupied by men. Participants were N = 163 (female n = 71, male n = 92) managers within the financial services industry. A simulated employment procedure was used with hiring managers evaluating mock applicant résumés for either male/female athletes or male/female non-athletes prior to answering questions about preferences for hiring candidates for entry-level employment. Results indicated female athlete candidates received similar scores to the male athlete candidates for hiring and competence. The female non-athlete candidate received the lowest scores for hiring and competence. Further, female athlete candidates received the highest scores overall for likeability. The findings indicate that participation in athletics provides women with a benefit in regard to hiring preference in the financial services industry.