Research Summary: Role of occupational self-efficacy and professional identity as mediators in the relationship between person-job fit and career sustainability among teachers

This study explored the relationship between person-job fit and career sustainability among teachers, identifying occupational self-efficacy and professional identity as serial mediators. The research, conducted with 390 teachers in Turkiye, found positive and significant relationships among these factors, suggesting that better person-job fit leads to higher occupational self-efficacy and a stronger professional identity, ultimately contributing to sustained careers.

Why it matters

Understanding the drivers of career sustainability is critical for talent retention and workforce stability within any professional domain. Identifying factors like person-job fit, self-efficacy, and professional identity allows for strategic interventions to enhance individual well-being and long-term organizational capacity. This research provides insights into how to foster environments where professionals can thrive and remain engaged.

Key insights

• Occupational self-efficacy and professional identity serially mediate the relationship between person-job fit and career sustainability.
• A positive person-job fit is significantly associated with career sustainability.
• The study involved 390 teachers in Turkiye.
• Data was collected using multiple established scales, including Career Sustainability, Person-Job Fit, Occupational Self-efficacy, and Perceived Professional Identity Scales.
• Hypotheses were tested using serial mediation analysis.

Source

Frontiers in Education — https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2026.1955848