Job Simulation and Impression Management: A study about self-presentation in the selection of interns and trainees

Abstract

Internships and trainee programs are two of the most important ways of entering the labor market. In selection processes for such opportunities, the job simulations are largely adopted by companies and human resources consultancies. Considering that this technique is a very subjective one, it’s possible for the candidates to make use of impression management. This study intends to analyze if business students resort to self-presentation strategies and tactics when they participate in this kind of selection. Additionally, it tries to identify if, according to their vision, the other competitors and the selecting companies use this resource. The empirical part of this study, that followed the literature review, consisted of a qualitative research based in a questionnaire answered by business students from two universities of Rio de Janeiro. The data treatment utilized was the content analysis. As central conclusions it is suggested that the impression management is not only used by those who answered but also by the organizations. Furthermore, there is evidence that the job simulation can be seen as an unfair process, that favors those who can act well.