An Investigation of Culture and Contextual Performance in Projects: What is the Role of Project Leader Personal Style Differences?

Abstract

Can individual differences in the personal style of the leader contribute to project culture? How might culture boost behavioral outcomes and success in projects? Drawing on a sample of 189 participants in 59 projects, we illustrate that leader personal style plays a part in the development of culture in project-based work. Additionally, we show that culture in projects can be exercised by the leader to initiate contextual performance — when workers willingly exert extra effort during project implementation. Finally, we show that contextual performance contributes to project success. Recommendations for selecting and coaching persons designated as project leaders are provided.