Reactions to Nepotism in the Hiring Process: The Role of Family Member Qualifications

Abstract

This study examined whether applicant qualifications influences the reactions of others to the practice of nepotism. Business students reviewed materials describing three job applicants and then completed a questionnaire assessing their reactions to the hiring process. Results showed that, regardless of how qualified the hired applicant was, those who observed nepotism expected to have lower job satisfaction, organizational commitment and motivation than those who did not, and that the nepotism applicant was perceived as being less competent and likeable than the non-nepotism applicant. Additionally, results showed that perceptions of fairness mediate the relationship between hiring method and reactions of nonbeneficiaries.