Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/15569
Title: Pay referents and satisfaction with pay: Does occupational proximity matter?
Authors: Georgellis, Y
Garcia, SM
Gregoriou, A
Ozbilgin, M
Issue Date: 2017
Citation: Georgellis, Y., Garcia, S.M., Gregoriou, A. and Ozbilgin, M. (2017). Pay Referents and Satisfaction with Pay: Does Occupational Proximity Matter? British Journal of Management. doi: 10.1111/1467-8551.12272
Abstract: We explore whether employees compare their pay to the pay of others in a similarly prestigious occupation, and, if so, whether this comparison has a negative impact on pay satisfaction. Using an experimental vignette methodology, Study 1 found that people are more inclined to compare to others from a similar or identical occupation and that comparison negatively impacts pay satisfaction. This comparison and its negative effect is particularly strong in high prestige occupations. Based on survey data, Study 2 also showed that the average pay of others in occupations of similar prestige is negatively correlated with employees’ pay satisfaction. This negative correlation was also stronger in higher prestige occupations. Our analysis highlights the importance of occupational prestige as a main factor influencing pay comparison.
URI: http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/15569
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-8551.12272
ISSN: 1045-3172
Appears in Collections:Brunel Business School Research Papers

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