Communication and job prospects in Lebanon : a multidimentional perspective

Abstract

Purpose - This research attempts to assess the perceived impact communication has on job prospects in Lebanon utilizing the theories of persuasive communication, heuristic-systematic processing, and halo effect. The topic is studied from both the job interviewer and the job interviewee's perspectives, for it focuses on communication during job interviews. Design/methodology/approach - Deductive in nature, this paper uses descriptive and inferential statistical methods. In order to collect data from both parties involved in job interviews, survey questionnaires targeting job interviewees are designed in two forms, electronic and paper-and-pencil, and semi-structured interviews targeting job interviewers are conducted with 16 companies operating locally. Potential outcomes - The findings provide indications about the perceived impact communication has on job prospects in Lebanon. From job interviewees' perspective, as they acquire higher levels of education their engagement in self-praise declines. From job interviewers' perspective, an arrogant job interviewee is disfavored. Limitations - The limitations encountered in collecting the primary data are accessibility, time, responses, bias, and location limitations. Those limitations varied in magnitude and level of impact on the quality of findings and on the ability to efficiently answer the research questions. Implications - This research has extended the theoretical debate about the role of communication in job prospects in Lebanon and tested the three theories governing it (persuasive communication theory, heuristic-systematic processing theory, and halo effect theory) in a new environment, the Lebanese market of job interviewees and job interviewers, utilizing multiple methodologies. Moreover, it contributed to the satisfaction of both job interviewees and job interviewers with job interviews by informing each party of what type of communication works for the other party. Originality/value - Studies of communication and its perceived impact on job prospects have generally been conducted in developed countries. This paper studies the perceived impact communication has on job prospects in Lebanon.