Confidence and Career Success: Unraveling the Impact of Self-Esteem on Employability Among Recent College Graduates in Philippine State Universities

Abstract

This study explores the influence of self-esteem on the employability of recent college graduates from Philippine State Universities. The research addresses the critical transition from education to employment, focusing on how self-esteem, impacts graduates' employability. The problem addressed is the gap in understanding the relationship between graduates' self-esteem and their success in securing employment, which is crucial for personal development and economic stability. A cross-sectional, correlational research design was employed, utilizing purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Data were collected through survey questionnaires distributed via online platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. The instruments used were Rosenberg’s Self-Esteem Scale (1965) and the Employability Assessment Tool by Dershem (2016). The sample consisted of recent graduates aged 22-26 who had been seeking employment. Descriptive statistics provided an overview of key variables, while inferential statistics, including Pearson’s correlation coefficient and simple linear regression analysis, examined the relationships between self-esteem and employability dimensions. Results indicated significant correlations between self-esteem and various employability skills, such as communication and problem-solving skills. Higher self-esteem was associated with better employability outcomes, highlighting the importance of psychological factors in job search success. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the vital role of self-esteem in enhancing employability among recent graduates. Recommendations include integrating self-esteem-building programs into university curricula and offering career counseling services to better prepare graduates for the job market. These findings contribute to the literature by underscoring the psychological dimensions of employability and providing actionable insights for educators, employers, and policymakers.