Leader characteristics as antecedents and follower outcomes of PGI : the mediating role of LMX

Abstract

In this thesis, we intend to make two distinctive contributions to the performance management- and goal setting research of Kuvaas, Buch & Dysvik (2014), Kuvaas and Buch (2016) and Kuvaas and Buch (2017) regarding perceiving goals as invariable (PGI). Firstly, we investigate two new potential antecedents to PGI; leader mindset and leader self- and other interest, and further, the mediating role of leader-member exchanges in the relationship between leader characteristics and follower PGI. Secondly, we investigate whether PGI reduces followers’ ability to take charge in the workplace. By employing a cross-sectional design, we have gathered data from leaders and employees in different departments within a big Nordic Bank. In study 1, we found that LMX mediated the relationship between leader otherinterest and follower PGI, such that a high quality of LMX (SLMX) was negatively associated with PGI, and contrary, that a low quality of LMX (ELMX) was positively associated with PGI. In study 2, we found no support for the relationship between PGI and taking charge. Finally, limitations, directions for future research and practical implications are discussed.