It pays to be well-connected: The moderating role of networking ability on the relationship between core self-evaluations and income

The aim of the current study is to examine the combined effect of networking ability and CSE on income. While both networking ability and CSE are known to be associated with income, it is not known if networking ability moderates the CSE and income relationship. Results with 203 Australian workers reveal that core self-evaluations are positively associated with income and that income is highest for individuals high in both core self-evaluations and networking ability. Drawing on approach/avoidance motivation theory and social capital theory, the results suggest that individuals high in CSE and networking ability are likely to benefit from higher incomes because of their motivation to set challenging and complex work goals as well as their willingness to draw on social connections in the workplace to achieve these goals. Implications of the current findings are discussed and directions for future research are offered.