Reciprocal Behaviour and Returns to On-the-job Training

Firms often invest in general employee training despite the risk that workers may seek jobs elsewhere. In this project, we test whether positive reciprocity can partly explain this pattern. Positive reciprocity, i.e. the inclination to respond to positive actions, could induce workers to provide extra effort in response to an employer’s training investments.

The analysis is based on a randomly assigned, week-long training programme at a call centre of a Dutch telecom operator. By combining the random assignment with detailed performance data, we can isolate the causal return to training for employees with different levels of reciprocal attitude.

The study helps explain why firms continue to invest in skill development despite the risk of turnover. The results may also provide guidance for recruitment and the design of internal training programmes.