The impact of subordinate-supervisor similarity in growth-need strength on work outcomes : the mediating role of perceived similarity

Abstract

Based on data collected from 205 vertical dyads, we found that subordinate–supervisor similarity in their self-reported growth-need strength (GNS) had a positive effect on subordinate-perceived and supervisor-perceived global similarity. The findings also suggested that subordinate-perceived global similarity mediates the link between similarity in GNS and subordinate's trust in and loyalty to supervisor; whereas supervisor-perceived global similarity mediates the link between similarity in GNS and supervisor-rated in-role/extra-role performances. In addition, we found that subordinate–supervisor similarity in self-reported GNS and perceived global similarity had independent effects on work outcomes for both subordinates and supervisors.