The impact of status leveling symbols on employee attitudes: A moderated mediational analysis

Abstract

This paper investigated the relationship between status leveling practices (practices used to remove, blur, or downplay hierarchical distinctions) and employee attitudes, as mediated through perceptions of organizational culture. We also examined how individual power-distance orientation moderates this mediated relationship. Using data from 147 working adults, our results largely supported the theoretical model. This study is among the first to measure status leveling, and to empirically investigate linkages between status leveling and relevant work related outcomes. Overall, such practices need to be integrated with other high involvement HR practices so as to create and sustain the culture desired by the organization.