How do career values boost STEM students’ perceived employability? A sequential mediation model

In the era of boundaryless careers, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) students need to actively shape their future careers and manage their career preparedness to enhance their employability. Drawing on career motivation theory, this study examines how career values are associated with perceived employability through professional identity and proactive career behavior. We conducted two studies with STEM students from the United States (Study 1) and China (Study 2). Across both studies, career values were positively associated with students’ perceived employability, and professional identity significantly mediated this relationship. Moreover, Study 2 revealed a significant sequential indirect effect of career values on perceived employability through professional identity and proactive career behavior. Finally, we discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings and directions for future research.