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The role of self-confidence in teamwork: Experimental evidence

Author

Listed:
  • Bruhin, Adrian
  • Petros, Fidel
  • Santos-Pinto, Luís

Abstract

Teamwork has become increasingly important in modern organizations and the labor market. Yet little is known about the role of self-confidence in teamwork. In this paper, we present evidence from a laboratory experiment using a team effort task. Effort and ability are complements and there are synergies between teammates' efforts. We exogenously manipulate subjects' self-confidence in their ability using easy and hard general knowledge quizzes. We find that overconfidence leads to more effort, less free riding, and higher team revenue. These findings suggest that organizations could improve team performance by hiring overconfident workers.

Suggested Citation

  • Bruhin, Adrian & Petros, Fidel & Santos-Pinto, Luís, 2023. "The role of self-confidence in teamwork: Experimental evidence," Discussion Papers, Research Unit: Market Behavior SP II 2023-206, WZB Berlin Social Science Center.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:wzbmbh:279569
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    3. repec:ebl:ecbull:v:3:y:2002:i:31:p:1-8 is not listed on IDEAS
    4. Mitchell Hoffman & Stephen V. Burks, 2020. "Worker overconfidence: Field evidence and implications for employee turnover and firm profits," Quantitative Economics, Econometric Society, vol. 11(1), pages 315-348, January.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Teamwork; Self-Confidence; Effort; Free Riding;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C71 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - Cooperative Games
    • C92 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Group Behavior
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making
    • D83 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness

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