Research
Bridging the intention-behavior gap? The effect of plan-making prompts on job search and employment
Stellenbosch Working Paper Series No. WP11/2018Publication date: June 2018
Author(s):
[protected email address] (Department of Economics, Stellenbosch University)
[protected email address] (World Bank)
[protected email address] (University of Cape Town)
We test the effects of plan-making on job search and employment. In a field experiment with unemployed youths, participants who complete a detailed job search plan increase the number of job applications submitted (15%) but not the time spent searching, consistent with intention-behavior gaps observed at baseline. Job seekers in the plan-making group diversify their search strategy and use more formal search channels. This greater search efficiency and effectiveness translate into more job offers (30%) and employment (26%). Weekly reminders and peer-support sub-treatments do not improve the impacts of plan-making, suggesting that limited attention and accountability are unlikely mechanisms.
JEL Classification:J64, J68, C93, D91
Keywords:Action Plan; Job Search; Active Labor Market Policy
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Prof Euan Phimister: Stellenbosch Business School
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Dr Friedrich Kreuser: Stellenbosch University
Topic: "Allocative Efficiency, Labour Shares, and Corporate Lobbying in European Manufacturing"
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26 Sep 2025 Free Weekly Review | Number 37 | 26 SeptemberThis report covers the key domestic and international data releases over the past week. The more comprehensive BER Weekly Review (Enhanced Version) includes a detailed discussion on the main economic events and developments over the past week, a summary of upcoming data (the week ahead) and the BER’s forecast for key economic indicators....
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