Fulfilled Expectations about Leaders Predict Engagement through LMX

Abstract

Drawing on the bandwidth-fidelity principle (Cronbach & Glaser, 1957), this paper challenges the use of broad Implicit Leadership Theories (ILTs) domains in predicting organizational outcomes (i.e., prototypic ILTs and anti-prototypic ILTs) and provides preliminary arguments for examining ILTs narrow traits (e.g., sensitivity, intelligence) effects on LMX and consequently on work engagement. Specifically, using polynomial regression and response surface methodology, I examined the effects of followers’ ideal-actual ILTs congruence on LMX. Additionally, using the block variable approach, I tested the mediation effects of LMX on the relationship between ideal-actual ILTs congruence and work engagement, on a sample of 68 employees. The results showed that followers’ fulfilled expectations about sensitivity and tyranny had linear effects on LMX, indicating the generalized benefits for leaders to be high on sensitivity and low on tyranny to enhance followers’ LMX. Intelligence, dedication, dynamism, and masculinity had non-linear effects, revealing that fulfilling followers’ expectations are the best option for leaders to develop high-quality relationships with their followers. The mediation hypothesis received partly support, suggesting that additional mechanisms can explain the relationship between followers’ ideal-actual ILTs congruence and work engagement.