Mediating Influence of General Process Management Competency on the relationship between Task Inattentiveness and Self-Efficacy for Teamwork among Management Students

Abstract

Purpose: This research study examines the mediating influence of general process management competency (GPMC) on the relationship between task inattentiveness (TIA) and self-efficacy for teamwork (SETW). Design/methodology/approach: One hundred and sixty-four graduate management students completed self-assessment measures of TIA and SETW, and identified a close associate who completed an observer version of a general process management competency measure. Product moment correlations were used to examine the hypothesized relationships between SETW and both TIA and GPMC, and both the Hayes process and the Sobel test were used to test the hypothesis that GPMC mediates the relationship between TIA and SETW. Findings: SETW was significantly correlated with both TIA (r = -0.24, p < 0.01) and GPMC (r = 0.44, p < 0.01). TIA was significantly correlated with GPMC (r = -0.33, p < 0.01). Both the Hayes process and Sobel test (Z = -3.49, p < 0.00) confirmed that GPMC fully mediated the relationship between TA and SETW. Practical implications: Business and management educators need to be aware of the influence of task inattentiveness and general process management competency on self-efficacy for teamwork. Teaching strategies and other developmental resources that address task inattentiveness and promote general process management competency in an integrated manner may help improve self confidence in teamwork, which is a key contributor to team member effectiveness. Originality/value: This is the first study to examine the relationships between TIA, GPMC and SETW. The results of this study highlight the importance of developing teaching strategies and developmental resources that enhance both task attentiveness and general process management competency in an integrated manner to promote greater confidence in ability to work in teams.