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Do Employees Reciprocate to Intra-Firm Trainings? An Analysis of Absenteeism and Turnover Rates

Author

Listed:
  • Katrin Breuer

    (University of Cologne)

  • Patrick Kampkoetter

    (University of Cologne)

Abstract

This paper studies the behavioral effects of intra-firm trainings on absence behavior and turnover probability. We argue that participation in firm-sponsored trainings might lead to behavioral responses among employees. When firms pay for general trainings, employees may perceive this as a gift to which they can reciprocate by providing higher levels of effort or commitment. Based on the personnel records of a large multinational firm we find that, in contrast to human capital predictions, general trainings lead to a decrease in turnover rates. Furthermore, a short-term decrease in absenteeism indicates a temporary, reciprocal reaction by employees.

Suggested Citation

  • Katrin Breuer & Patrick Kampkoetter, 2012. "Do Employees Reciprocate to Intra-Firm Trainings? An Analysis of Absenteeism and Turnover Rates," Cologne Graduate School Working Paper Series 03-09, Cologne Graduate School in Management, Economics and Social Sciences.
    • Handle: RePEc:cgr:cgsser:03-09
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Training; Human Capital; Reciprocity; Turnover; Absenteeism;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D64 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Altruism; Philanthropy; Intergenerational Transfers
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • J31 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Wage Level and Structure; Wage Differentials
    • M50 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Personnel Economics - - - General
    • M53 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Personnel Economics - - - Training

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