Predictors of improved readiness for work life: A data-driven explorative study using self-report measures of work ability and functioning

Predictors of employment have been studied extensively previously. However, even small beneficial changes in readiness for work life are relevant, regardless of whether the person has yet gained employment. This study explored how the unemployed individuals’ readiness for work life could be assessed by using a self-report measure and whether certain factors of work ability and functioning were predictors of a beneficial change in this measure. The study utilised questionnaire data from 3,686 individuals participating in training and development activities that aim to support work ability and work participation in Finland in 2017 to 2022. The data were collected using the Abilitator, a self-report instrument for measuring work ability and functioning, and readiness for work life was measured by asking ‘How do you feel in relation to work life at the moment?’ on a scale of 0 to 10. We used logistic regression analysis and bootstrap-enhanced lasso methods in this study. The results showed that especially the feeling of having skills that can be used in work life and experiencing less impediments to potential work due to illnesses were associated with feeling closer to work life. In addition, positive changes in feeling part of society and in feeling useful were associated with feeling closer to work life. The research findings could be useful in planning training and development activities aimed at supporting work participation.