Work

Imagining the newcomer–supervisor relationship: Future relational self in the workplace

Year: 2021

Type: article

Abstract: People develop images of themselves in the future reflecting hopes in relation to their work, namely the future work self. In this study, we introduce the concept of Future Relational Self (FRS), conceived as a relevant dimension of the future work self that illustrates the representation of the relationship that an employee aspires to build with significant stakeholders in the workplace (i.e., the supervisor). In addition, we investigate its motivational power shaping role and relational outcomes at work. Using data collected among 215 newcomers in three different waves with a one‐month time lag, we examine the indirect effect of two characteristics of the FRS––namely salience and attribution of control––on newcomers' adjustment (i.e., role clarity and social adjustment) via leader–member exchange (LMX) quality. Results reveal that only the FRS attribution of control is positively associated with LMX quality. Moreover, the results indicate that LMX quality mediates the effects of attribution of control on both newcomers' social adjustment and role clarity. Contributions for theory and implications for practice are highlighted.

Source: Human Resource Management Journal

DOI: 10.1111/1748-8583.12340

Authors: Gabriele Morandin, Marcello Russo, Massimo Bergami

Institutions: University of Bologna, Kedge Business School

Language: English

Topic: Job Satisfaction and Organizational Behavior

Subfield: Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,700