A longitudinal, mixed method evaluation of self-awareness training in the workplace. Issue 7 (3rd August 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sutton, Anna; Williams, Helen M; Allinson, Christopher W
• Is Part Of: European journal of training and development. Volume 39:Issue 7(2015)
• Page Start: 610
• Page End: 627
• Publication Date: 2015-08-03
• Subjects: Well-being -- Reflection -- Mixed methods -- Self-awareness; Employees -- Training of -- Europe -- Periodicals; Employees -- Training of -- Periodicals; Manpower planning -- Europe -- Periodicals; Manpower planning -- Periodicals; Career development -- Periodicals; 331.259205
• DOI: 10.1108/EJTD-04-2015-0031
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2046-9012

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: – The purpose of this study is to investigate whether self-awareness, which is associated with general well-being and positive life outcomes, is also of specific benefit in the workplace. The authors tested the relationship between self-awareness and job-related well-being, and evaluated two different interventions designed to improve dispositional self-awareness at work. Design/methodology/approach: – Full-time employees took part in these training interventions and completed questionnaires using a switching-replications design. Questionnaires measured dispositional self-attentiveness (reflection and rumination) and job well-being (satisfaction, enthusiasm and contentment) at three time points over a period of six weeks. Statistical analyses were complemented with qualitative analysis of reported impacts. Findings: – Self-awareness was positively associated with job-related well-being and was improved by training. Employees reported gaining a greater appreciation of diversity, improved communication with colleagues and increased confidence. Research limitations/implications: – Sample size limited the extent to which the relatively weak relationships between the concepts could be identified. Practical implications: – Self-awareness is demonstrated to be of value at work, associated with higher well-being and improvements in several positive occupational outcomes. The self-awareness training is more likely to result in active work-based improvements than in reflective changes. Originality/value: – Dispositional self-awareness is shown to be subject to change through training. The study demonstrates the value of self-awareness at work and identifies a range of related work outcomes.