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Article
Trying to Look Bad at Work: Methods and Motives for Managing Poor Impressions in Organizations
Academy of Management Journal
  • Thomas E. Becker, University of Delaware
  • Scott L. Martin
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-1995
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.5465/256732
Disciplines
Abstract

Intentionally looking bad at work is a type of impression management in which employees purposefully attempt to convey unfavorable impressions. Drawing on the employment experiences of 162 individuals, we documented five forms of such behavior: decreasing performance, not working to potential, withdrawal, displaying a bad attitude, and broadcasting limitations. Motives for managing poor impressions were also documented. The management of poor impressions was discriminable from the management of favorable impressions and self-handicapping. We provide a preliminary framework for understanding the management of poor impressions.

Citation / Publisher Attribution

Academy of Management Journal, v. 38, no. 1, p. 174-199

Citation Information
Thomas E. Becker and Scott L. Martin. "Trying to Look Bad at Work: Methods and Motives for Managing Poor Impressions in Organizations" Academy of Management Journal Vol. 38 Iss. 1 (1995) p. 174 - 199
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/thomas-becker/41/