On the importance of congruence between personal and work values – How value incongruence affects job satisfaction: A multiple mediation model

Abstract

This study proposes a novel conceptualization of work values designed to quantify the degree of incongruity between personal values and workplace demands. We define work values as the priorities individuals wish to be recognized for in their workplace, while personal values are those the individual personally identifies with. By contrasting personal and work values, we provide evidence for value incongruence among employees and showed that this measurement of value incongruence effectively predicts key job-related metrics. Value incongruence directly reduces job satisfaction, but its primary impact is indirect. Our multiple mediation analysis reveals that it mainly affects job satisfaction through perceived job meaningfulness, relationships with supervisors, and opportunities for career advancement. We discuss the implications of our findings for various stakeholders and suggest potential improvements for individual and societal well-being linked to the future of work.