A diary study of self-presentation behaviours of industrial psychology interns

Abstract: The topic of self-presentation in the South African work context has only been explored to a limited degree. The purpose of this study is to give insight into the self-presentation behaviours that are employed by industrial psychology interns. A qualitative approach was used in order to convey the stories of the eight participants. A diary study and semi-structured interviews were used in generating the findings of the study. In the study, seven themes were found. Four of them, namely ingratiation, self-promotion, rendering favours, and exemplification were pre-existing strategies that aligned to the theoretical frameworks, whereas the remaining three, namely professionalism, openness to learning, and conformity were novel. The interns had common and unique intentions for making use of each strategy and aimed these strategies at various targets in their organisational surroundings. Academically, the study adds to the body of literature on self-presentation. Practically, the study serves as a guideline as to which successful self-presentation behaviours interns may utilise in order to benefit their careers and reputation in the workplace. Recommendations for future research are also given.M.Com. (Industrial Psychology