MODELLING THE PERFORMANCE OF SUBORDINATE, & EFFECTIVE BOSS-SUBORDINATE RELATIONSHIP ON THE CONTEXT OF EXPERIENCE: AN ISM APPROACH

Abstract

The main purpose of this paper is to identify the key dimensions contributing to the effectiveness of dimensions of supervisor-subordinate relationship and to examine their interrelationship to way of their subordinates’ performance. The said dimensions have been identified by reviewing the literatures and by expert opinion. Through the ISM (Interpretative Structural Modelling), the structural relationships among the above said dimensions are developed that explain their properties. The result shows that prior work experience, free & fair communication, skill & behaviour of boss, supportive work environment and precision & clarity are the critical dimensions for effective supervisor-subordinate relationship that led to subordinates’ favourable attitude and enhanced performance. Nine dimensions out of ten are psychologically driven and ‘performance’ is the only physically visible dimension, which implies that effective boss-subordinate relationship should be internalized rather than visualized. Through a qualitative technique, ISM dimensions of effective authority-subordinate relationships are identified and co-related in a strategic-planning approach. This study followed a qualitative research technique (ISM), but it would be an added advantage, if any quantitative technique will justify the outcomes of this study. Some more expert-opinions may explore any new dimensions of boss-subordinate relationships, which can enhance the industry implications of the study.