The relationship between general self-efficacy and income of Chinese employees: Emotion as a mediator

I examined the relationship between general self-efficacy and the income of Chinese employees, and the mediating role of emotion in this relationship. Analysis of data obtained in a survey of 209 employees in Shanghai revealed that general self-efficacy was positively related to income. Additionally, emotion fully mediated the positive relationship between general self-efficacy and income. The study validates and enriches resource-based theory by demonstrating that general self-efficacy, as a type of strategic resource, is positively related to employee performance. Additionally, it reveals the important role of emotion in the association between strategic resources and employee performance. The findings imply that managers of Chinese enterprises should assess the general self-efficacy of job applicants through surveys and interviews. Furthermore, Chinese leaders should adopt a leadership style designed to improve the emotional state of their followers.