leader member exchange (LMX) theorie Flashcards
Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) Theory
Leadership is a process that is centered on the interactions between a leader and subordinates. LMX theory challenges the assumption that leaders treat followers in a collective way.
Directed attention to the differences that might exist between the leader and each of his followers.
- Dyadic Relationship: development of relationship between leader and follower (vertical dyad)
- Descriptive Part: Differentiation between in-groups and out-groups
- Prescriptive Part: gives you as a leader recommendations how to develop relation between leader and follower
Stages in Development on LMX Theory
- Vertical Dyad Linkage: descriptive part
- Leader-Member-Exchange: descriptive part
- Leadership-Making: prescriptive part, develops over time - three stages (Role Taking, Role Making, Routinization)
- Team-Making
ROLE TAKING
Takes place when a new member joins a team and their abilities are initially assessed by the leader, directive leadership - stranger phase
ROLE MAKING
Role is created for the member, exchange between leader and member
In-Group Characteristics
Based on expanded (crucial word!) and negotiated role responsibilities
• Reciprocal influence
• Do extra things for the leader and the leader does the same for them
• More emotional, bonds
Out-group characteristics
Based on formal employment contract
• Only formal communication -> no reciprocal influence
• Less compatible with leader -> usually just come to work to do their job
ROUTINIZATION
Partner phase
• Routines, norms and expectations are established
• Both get insight into how you both work
• you can negotiate you role, responsibilities, influence
• High quality exchange between leader and member
WHAT ARE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LMX LEADERSHIP THEORY?
• Central concept is the dyadic relationship
• LMX theory describes leadership
• Differences in how goals are accomplished using in-groups vs. out-groups
• LMX theory prescribes leadership
• Leader should develop high quality exchanges with all of his subordinates, rather than just a few
• Leader should offer each subordinate an opportunity for new roles/responsibilities
• Leader should focus on ways to built trust and respect with all subordinates -> entire work
group becomes an in-group
STRENGTHS & WEAKNESSES OF LMX
Pro
1. Validates daily experience in the organization of how people within organizations relate with each other and to the leader
- First approach that focuses on the vertical dyadic relationship
- Brings us a direct focus/attention to the importance of the communication skills
contra
Empirical questions, more research needed