The mediating role of power distance in perceived overqualification and job performance

BackgroundThe fundamental concern of healthcare professionals is to provide healthcare services to preserve human life, which is a job they do that does not tolerate errors. Given the high importance and pressure put upon healthcare professionals, many studies have been conducted to improve the motivation of employees and minimize possible errors. This study examined the relationship between the job performance of overqualified employees and power distance.ObjectivesThe study aimed to examine the effect of perceived overqualification on job performance and the mediating role of power distance.MethodThe study population consisted of healthcare employees working at a hospital in Türkiye. Data were collected using a convenience sampling method, and the final sample consisted of 328 participants. The data were obtained from face-to-face surveys and analyzed using statistical software.ResultsThe study revealed that perceived overqualification has a significant and positive effect on job performance (p < 0.05). Moreover, power distance played a partial mediating role regarding the effect of overqualification on job performance.ConclusionThe results indicate that overqualified individuals are less likely to show job performance in organizations with high-power distance. It is recommended that further research is conducted not only in the healthcare sector but also in different sectors, including more diverse demographic samples.