The effect of perceived fit on thriving at work in a Chinese context

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of perceived fit on thriving and reveal the potential moderator and mediator of this effect by drawing on self-determination theory. Moreover, to adapt the research to Chinese contexts, a four-factor conceptualization of perceived fit is suggested. Design/methodology/approach: The paper includes two studies. Study 1 involved a survey that collected data from 531 employees to investigate the relationship between perceived fit and thriving and the moderating role of personal goal commitment. Study 2 consisted of a scenario-based experiment in which 240 university students were recruited to strengthen the main findings of Study 1 and test the underlying mechanisms of the effect of perceived fit on thriving. Findings: Study 1 shows that perceived fit positively relates to thriving, and personal goal commitment plays a moderating role in this effect. In addition, it demonstrates the validity of the proposed four-factor conceptualization of perceived fit in Chinese contexts. Study 2 strengthens the proposition of the positive effect of perceived fit on thriving and identifies the mediating roles of self-determination in this effect. Originality/value: This paper contributes to the literature on thriving and fit by exploring new antecedents of thriving and extending the dimensions of perceived fit.