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Academy of Management Journal Vol. 45 No. 6 2002

How Similarity to Peers and Supervisor Influences Organizational Advancement in Different Cultures

John Schaubroeck1; Simon S. K. Lam2

1 Drexel University · 2 University of Hong Kong

Abstract

This study tested hypotheses concerning how similarity of personality traits between promotion candidates and their peers and supervisors influences promotion decisions in different work unit cultures. Personality similarity to peers was positively associated with promotion in units with high individualism. In units with high collectivism, supervisor-subordinate personality similarity was instead a significant predictor of advancement. Behavioral integration between candidates and their peers and supervisors partially mediated the influence of personality similarity on promotion. Demographic similarity had little influence on promotion decisions. We discuss implications for understanding similarity effects and for increasing the validity of promotion decisions.

DOI
10.5465/3069428
Volume
45
Issue
6
Pages
1120-1136
Sources
ris:amj.ris openalex

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