Skip to main content
Article
Political Skill Dimensionality And Impression Management Choice And Effective Use
Journal of Business and Psychology
  • Robyn L. Brouer, Canisius College
  • Rebecca L. Badaway, University at Buffalo
  • Vickie C. Gallagher, Cleveland State University
  • Julita A. Haber, City University of New York
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
6-1-2015
Keywords
  • impression management; political skill dimensionality; performance ratings; human resources
Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to test a moderated mediation model of the dimensionality of political skill on influence tactic choice and performance ratings. Design/Mythology/Approach Dyadic data were analyzed using a mixed-method approach to account for any leaderlevel effects, as well as bootstrapping methods to account for the modest sample size (n = 116). Findings Social astuteness best predicted positive impression management (IM) over negative IM. Apparent sincerity interacted with positive impression management tactics to predict higher performance ratings, whereas interpersonal influence did not. Implications The findings support that socially astute individuals use more positive influence tactics in the workplace. This could impact the broader work environment, making it more pleasant than one with individuals using negative influence tactics. Thus, it might be the interest of organizations to train individuals to enhance their social astuteness. However, confirming prior research, performance evaluations made by managers are impacted by more than objective performance (e.g., political skill). Thus, organizations need to ensure the proper training of managers to lessen these types of biases. Originality/Value This research empirically validates components of the metatheoretical framework of political skill (Ferris et al. Journal of Management 33:290–320, 2007) by examining the impact that dimensions of political skill have on interpersonal processes and outcomes in the workplace.

DOI
10.1007/s10869-014-9344-y
Version
Postprint
Citation Information
Brouer, R.L., Badaway, R.L., Gallagher, V.C., & Haber, J.A. (2015). Political skill dimensionality and impression management choice and effective use. Journal of Business and Psychology, 30(2), 217-233. doi:10.1007/s10869-014-9344-y