A Study on the Importance of Image in Event Management Among Secretarial Science Students at Politeknik Port Dickson

Abstract

In the professional domains of secretarial work and event management, professional image is a vital competency that extends beyond appearance to encompass credibility, competence, and confidence. It influences how individuals are perceived in academic and workplace settings, thereby shaping employability and long-term career success. Grounded in Impression Management Theory, this study investigates the importance of professional image among Diploma in Secretarial Science students at Politeknik Port Dickson, with a particular emphasis on its role in the DPK50183 (Event Organization) course. The study examines students’ awareness and self-reported practice of professional image during event management duties, addressing the persistent gap between theoretical understanding and the confidence required for authentic professional performance. Using a quantitative research design, structured questionnaires were distributed to the total population of 88 final-year students, yielding 37 valid responses (response rate: 42%). Reliability analysis confirmed high internal consistency for the awareness (α = 0.90) and practice (α = 0.87) dimensions. Descriptive findings revealed that students demonstrated a very high level of awareness (M = 4.76, SD = 0.43), yet a slightly lower level of practice (M = 4.52, SD = 0.57), with the lowest score recorded for confidence when interacting with official guests (M = 4.30). Inferential analysis using an independent samples t-test found no statistically significant difference in confidence between students with and without prior event experience (t(35) = 1.45, p = 0.155), suggesting that exposure alone is insufficient to enhance confidence without structured support.