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Why does height matter in hiring?

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  • Agerström, Jens

Abstract

Previous research shows the existence of a height premium in the workplace with tall individuals receiving more benefits across several domains (e.g., earnings) relative to short people. The current study probes deeper into the height premium by focusing on the specific favorable traits, attributes, and abilities tall individuals are presumed to have, ultimately giving these individuals an advantage in hiring. In an experiment, we made a male job applicant taller or shorter by digitally manipulating photographs, and attached these to job applications that were evaluated by professional recruiters. We find that in the context of hiring a project leader, the height premium consists of increased perceptions of the candidate's general competence, specific job competency (including employability), and physical health, whereas warmth and physical attractiveness seem to matter less. Interestingly, physical height predicted recruiters’ hiring intentions even when statistically controlling for competence, warmth, health, and attractiveness.

Suggested Citation

  • Agerström, Jens, 2014. "Why does height matter in hiring?," Journal of Behavioral and Experimental Economics (formerly The Journal of Socio-Economics), Elsevier, vol. 52(C), pages 35-38.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:soceco:v:52:y:2014:i:c:p:35-38
    DOI: 10.1016/j.socec.2014.06.002
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