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Measuring the Specificity of Human Capital: a Skill-based Approach

Author

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  • Kristjan-Olari Leping

    (University of Tartu P‰rnu College)

Abstract
In this article a skill-based measure for human capital specificity will be constructed. This measure is based on the possibilities of making use of skills on labour market and it depends on the number of jobs where the particular skill is required. It is assumed that the specificity of human capital depends on the specificity of skills. In order to calculate the levels of specificity of different skills empirically, the data from the skill requirements of vacant jobs are used. The validity of this measure is tested by using it as an estimator of the probability that on-the-job training is offered to employees. The differences in the specificity of required human capital between different industries and occupations are also investigated in this paper. The proposed job specificity measure can be used for planning the public sector support to on-the-job training as the companiesí decisions to pay for training depend on the specificity of required human capital.

Suggested Citation

  • Kristjan-Olari Leping, 2005. "Measuring the Specificity of Human Capital: a Skill-based Approach," Working Papers 134, Tallinn School of Economics and Business Administration, Tallinn University of Technology.
    • Handle: RePEc:ttu:wpaper:134
    as

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    File URL: http://deepthought.ttu.ee/majandus/tekstid/TUTWPE_05_134.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Matthias Kräkel, 2016. "Human Capital Investment and Work Incentives," Journal of Economics & Management Strategy, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 25(3), pages 627-651, September.
    2. Aleksandra Gregorič & Thomas Poulsen, 2020. "When Do Employees Choose to Be Represented on the Board of Directors? Empirical Analysis of Board‐Level Employee Representation in Denmark," British Journal of Industrial Relations, London School of Economics, vol. 58(2), pages 241-272, June.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    human capital; skills; on-the-job training;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • M53 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Personnel Economics - - - Training

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