Researching career readiness to promote societal well-being and drive the 3^rd SDGs

¹ Economic Education Program, Universitas Negeri Malang, Indonesia
² Economic Education Program, Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia
³ Foreign Language for Business, Thai Global Business Administration Technological College, Thailand

^* Corresponding author: albrian.fiky.2104319@students.um.ac.id

Abstract

The well-being of individuals preparing to enter the workforce is crucial for enhancing Career Readiness (RED) and advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) point number three. This study examines how psychological factors, particularly depression, affect those who are about to begin their professional careers. The research data were obtained by an online survey of 430 job-entry individuals in Indonesia. The analysis technique used to test hypotheses was WarpPLS Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). The results obtained were that Growth Mindset (GM) directly affected Career Readiness (RED) and Depression (DEP). The findings of this study also confirm the second direct influence, namely Resilience (RES), which affects the Career Readiness (RED) but fails to reduce Depression (DEP). The last direct influence is the Career Readiness (RED), which can significantly reduce Depression (DEP). The latest finding is that Career Readiness (RED) can mediate the influence of Resilience (RES) on Depression (DEP), but does not occur in Growth Mindset (GM). The results are valuable for institutions and policymakers seeking to promote societal well-being by supporting mental health and readiness for change in individuals entering the job market.