Perceptions of Competency Norms in the Workplace: A Scale Development

Abstract

This study developed and tested a theory-based measure of an individual’s perceptions of social norms of showing competency at work (i.e., perceptions of competency norms) with 644 working professionals in two samples. Following item generation and content adequacy assessment, exploratory factor analyses and confirmatory factor analysis provided evidence of its construct validity, resulting in a multidimensional instrument comprising four conditions under which perceptions of competency norms may be elicited: toward profession, toward stakeholders, when competent, and when incompetent. Finally, structural equation modeling demonstrated predictive validity for the measure of perceptions of competency norms with three impression management tactics: self-promotion, ingratiation, and exemplification. Implications for practice and directions for future research are discussed.