When does mastery goal orientation lead to performance? The mediating effect of job self efficacy and the moderating effect of pro-sharing norms.

Based on the Social Cognitive Theory and the self regulation approach, this study examined the mediating role of job self-efficacy in the relationship between mastery goal orientation (MGO), differentiated into approach and avoidance,and individual employees’ job performance. Also, we proposed that organizational pro-sharing norms would moderate the relationship between MGO and self-efficacy. A survey was conducted among 273 employees from 52 organizations in China. Results show that approach MGO is positively and avoidance MGO negatively related to job performance through job self-efficacy. Moreover, the positive relationship between approach MGO job self-efficacy is only significant when the organizational level of pro-sharing norms is low. And the negative relationship between avoidance MGO and job self-efficacy is buffered when pro-sharing norms is high. Theoretical and managerial implications of these findings are discussed.