To repeat or not repeat? A matter of economic reward and individual differences

Abstract

This study explores the tendency to prefer more repetitive (but highly economic rewarding) tasks over less repetitive (and less economic rewarding) tasks in a sample of junior professionals, as well as their relationship to individual differences. Behavioral performance at a novel decisionmaking task, decision-making and personality profiles were collected. Findings showed that most junior professionals seem to prefer highly repetitive tasks (with greater economic reward) than less boring and less rewarding tasks. However, a cluster approach allows distinguishing between four distinct clusters of decision-makers: the “reward seekers”, the “temporizers”, the “balancers” and the “outsiders”. Each cluster of professionals exhibits unique individual differences in terms of decision-making styles and personality profiles (except for reward responsiveness). Evaluating junior professionals decision-making profiles in choosing which tasks to carry out is extremely relevant in company selection processes, as it allows you to assign the new resource to the best job position.