An exploration of the interactive effects of leader trait goal orientation and goal content in teams

We address the intersection of leadership and goals by exploring how leader goal orientation and goal content work together when they result in matches and mismatches in teams. Our study utilized a sample of 48 teams that were randomly assigned to either a learning or a performance goal on a complex, computerized decision-making task. We found some support for our compensatory predictions as it concerns a joint focus on learning and performance on team performance. In terms of team learning, we found the highest levels among teams assigned learning goals and with leaders low on performance orientation. We found the lowest levels of team learning among teams assigned learning goals and with leaders high on performance orientation. In terms of team task commitment, we found positive effects for leader learning orientation and negative effects for leader performance orientation, but no joint effects for leader goal orientation and goal content.