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Bonds and boundaries: Network structure, organizational boundaries, and job performance

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  • Zou, Xi
  • Ingram, Paul

Abstract

We propose and test a framework that describes the relationship between network structures and job performance. We provide an integration of the current conceptualizations of social capital as they pertain to job performance outcomes by taking a multi-dimensional view of job performance. We break down job performance into creativity, decision-making, task execution, and teamwork, and distinguish the effect of structural holes within and across the organizational boundary on these four job performance domains. In an analysis of 318 managers, we find that networks rich in structural holes that cross the organizational boundary had a positive association with creativity and decision-making, whereas networks with few structural holes within the organization had a positive association with task execution and teamwork. We discuss the theoretical implications for integrating the social capital, boundary spanning, and network structure literatures, as well as the practical benefits of giving much more precise advice to managers and employees regarding how to use networks to improve performance at work.

Suggested Citation

  • Zou, Xi & Ingram, Paul, 2013. "Bonds and boundaries: Network structure, organizational boundaries, and job performance," Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, Elsevier, vol. 120(1), pages 98-109.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jobhdp:v:120:y:2013:i:1:p:98-109
    DOI: 10.1016/j.obhdp.2012.09.002
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Zhang, Xiaoxing & Gao, Changyuan & Zhang, Shuchen, 2022. "The niche evolution of cross-boundary innovation for Chinese SMEs in the context of digital transformation——Case study based on dynamic capability," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 68(C).
    2. Edward Bishop Smith & Yuan Hou, 2015. "Redundant Heterogeneity and Group Performance," Organization Science, INFORMS, vol. 26(1), pages 37-51, February.
    3. Meini Han & Han Lin & Jiangyan Wang & Yunzhen Wang & Wan Jiang, 2019. "Turning corporate environmental ethics into firm performance: The role of green marketing programs," Business Strategy and the Environment, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 28(6), pages 929-938, September.
    4. Stewart R. Miller & Marie Louise Mors & Michael McDonald, 2019. "Expectations for Help Within and Across the Formal Boundaries of Executives’ Professional Advice Networks," Management International Review, Springer, vol. 59(4), pages 617-642, August.
    5. Kim, Hakkyun & Lee, Kyoungmi & Park, Kiwan, 2015. "Balancing out feelings of risk by playing it safe: The effect of social networking on subsequent risk judgment," Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, Elsevier, vol. 131(C), pages 121-131.

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