Trying to motivate employees through intimidation? Think again
ISSN: 0048-3486
Article publication date: 29 October 2020
Issue publication date: 9 July 2021
Abstract
Purpose
This study advances our knowledge about counternormative emotion management processes utilized in organizations. We investigate a research model in which managerial intimidation, and more specifically subordinates' perceptions about it, evokes fear, which reduces their job satisfaction and increases their turnover intentions.
Design/methodology/approach
The model was tested using two samples, one from the public sector and the other from the private sector. The data were collected in three waves using questionnaires.
Findings
Our findings validated the research model in the public sector alone, revealing sectorial differences regarding the destructive emotional and attitudinal implications of perceived managerial intimidation.
Originality/value
The current study sheds light on counternormative emotion management processes utilized in organizations, a topic we know little about. Furthermore, it advances our knowledge regarding the responses of the targets of impression management attempts, revealing sectorial differences about them. Finally, this study broadens our understanding about intimidation, an under-investigated impression management strategy.
Keywords
Citation
Meisler, G. (2021), "Trying to motivate employees through intimidation? Think again", Personnel Review, Vol. 50 No. 6, pp. 1445-1459. https://doi.org/10.1108/PR-03-2020-0160
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited