From personality to connection: the mediating role of tie strength in HEXACO traits and job networking behaviour

The HEXACO model and social network theory have been used to investigate the effect of personalities on level of the networking behaviour for finding employment, however, the mechanism explaining the relationships is unknown. The purpose of this research aims to examine the mediating role of tie strength in the relationships between HEXACO personalities and job search networking behaviour. The study applied the quantitative method with the sample of 773 university graduates collected at two points with a 3monthlagged time. Our findings indicate that Honesty-humility, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness influence positively individuals' tie strength. Our study provides evidence that an individual tends to spend more time networking for stronger ties. The findings also demonstrate that tie strength plays a mediating role in the relationships between Honesty-humility, Extraversion, Conscientiousness, and job search networking behaviour. Implications for mentors, counsellors, and researchers are discussed.