The Impact of Underdog Status

Employees who discover they were not the first choice for a job often experience a feeling of decreased social integration within their teams. While previous research on underdogs suggests that knowing you're not expected to succeed can drive motivation, this situation typically contributes to a sense of belongingness that negatively impacts their eagerness to engage with coworkers. As a result, these individuals may be less proactive in seeking feedback and making connections during their early days on the job. The initial reaction of feeling distanced from colleagues can hinder their ability to acclimate and contribute effectively to the workplace.