Competition Avoidance vs. Herding in Job Search: Evidence from Large-Scale Field Experiments on an Online Job Board

• 成果类型: Article; Early Access
• 署名作者: Fradkin, Andrey; Bhole, Monica; Horton, John J.
• 署名单位: Boston University; Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• 刊物名称: MANAGEMENT SCIENCE
• ISSN/ISSBN: 0025-1909
• DOI: 10.1287/mnsc.2023.02483
• 发表日期: 2025
• 关键词: economics; behavior and behavioral decision making; LABOR; performance; information systems; IT policy and management; electronic commerce; organizational studies; BEHAVIOR

摘要

Information about the number of applicants to a job vacancy might simultaneously signal the degree of competition and vacancy quality. We study how this information affects job search. To do so, we conduct three experiments on a large online job platform in which the treatment varies what information is shown to job seekers. Information about the number of prior applicants to a vacancy increases the number of applications and redirects them to vacancies with few prior applications. Information about vacancy age increases application rates, especially to new vacancies. To further investigate the causal mechanisms, we conduct and analyze a survey choice experiment. We conclude that job seekers prefer to avoid competition rather than use the popularity of a vacancy as a signal of quality.