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Relationship building in small firms: The development of a model

Lookup NU author(s): Professor Elizabeth Chell, Paul Tracey

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Abstract

This article investigates relationships between Owner Managers and First Line Managers (supervisors) in small firms. A model comprising four components - competency, role, style and vision - was developed to consider the operating reality of this dyad, and its robustness considered using an embedded case study design (n = 15). The analysis relied upon 'pattern matching' in which a set of a priori propositions were examined, and (a) the predicted outcome (based on the model) compared with (b) the observed outcome (based on respondents' assessment of the relationship). Two types of factor were identified: style and vision were found to be contingent, varying according to the dynamic of the relationship and expectations of those involved, while competency and role were deemed to be core elements without which effective interrelating is unlikely. Finally, the model was revised to include a fifth dimension -an emotional bond comprising trust/mutual respect - which appeared to be a crucial feature of effective relationships. Copyright © 2005 The Tavistock Institute ® SAGE Publications.


Publication metadata

Author(s): Chell E, Tracey P

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Human Relations

Year: 2005

Volume: 58

Issue: 5

Pages: 577-616

ISSN (print): 0018-7267

ISSN (electronic): 1741-282X

Publisher: Sage Publications Ltd.

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0018726705055964

DOI: 10.1177/0018726705055964


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