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Training and Job Satisfaction in Portugal’s Public Sector: A Sequential Mediation Model Based on Competency Acquisition, Performance Appraisal, and Career Progression

Author

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  • Manuela Silva

    (Business & Economics School, Instituto Superior de Gestão, 1500-552 Lisboa, Portugal)

  • Rosa Isabel Rodrigues

    (Business & Economics School, Instituto Superior de Gestão, 1500-552 Lisboa, Portugal)

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between training and job satisfaction among public sector employees in Portugal through a sequential mediation model. Understanding the factors that influence job satisfaction among public administration employees is essential for fostering healthier and more productive work environments. This study investigates the role of competency acquisition, performance appraisal (PA), and career progression opportunities in the relationship between training and job satisfaction, using a sequential mediation model. The sample consisted of 340 public sector employees aged between 20 and 65 years. A cross-sectional, quantitative design was employed to analyze the relationships among the variables and test the proposed hypotheses. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to a convenience sample. The mediation analysis revealed that training influences job satisfaction indirectly by promoting the development of competencies that contribute to improved PA results, which, in turn, facilitate career advancement. These findings highlight the importance of implementing organizational strategies that align training with transparent performance evaluation systems and career development plans, offering valuable guidance for public human resource policies aimed at strengthening institutional efficiency.

Suggested Citation

  • Manuela Silva & Rosa Isabel Rodrigues, 2025. "Training and Job Satisfaction in Portugal’s Public Sector: A Sequential Mediation Model Based on Competency Acquisition, Performance Appraisal, and Career Progression," Administrative Sciences, MDPI, vol. 15(5), pages 1-17, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jadmsc:v:15:y:2025:i:5:p:189-:d:1660401
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Gordon W. Cheung & Helena D. Cooper-Thomas & Rebecca S. Lau & Linda C. Wang, 2024. "Reporting reliability, convergent and discriminant validity with structural equation modeling: A review and best-practice recommendations," Asia Pacific Journal of Management, Springer, vol. 41(2), pages 745-783, June.
    2. Barbara Wisse & Rob Eijbergen & Eric F. Rietzschel & Susanne Scheibe, 2018. "Catering to the Needs of an Aging Workforce: The Role of Employee Age in the Relationship Between Corporate Social Responsibility and Employee Satisfaction," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 147(4), pages 875-888, February.
    3. Gordon W. Cheung & Helena D. Cooper‑Thomas & Rebecca S. Lau & Linda C. Wang, 2024. "Correction to: Reporting reliability, convergent and discriminant validity with structural equation modeling: A review and best-practice recommendations," Asia Pacific Journal of Management, Springer, vol. 41(2), pages 785-787, June.
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