Leadership behaviors, influence tactics, and career experiences of champions of technological innovation

Abstract This research examines the leadership behaviors, influence tactics, and career experiences of champions of technological innovations. Content analysis of the interview transcripts of a matched sample of 25 champions and nonchampions indicated that champions exhibited more charismatic leader behaviors and used a wider variety of influence tactics than nonchampions. Champions also held more job positions, worked in more divisions and geographic locations, and had greater previous innovation experience during their careers than nonchampions. Implications of the findings for organization theory and practice and directions for future research are discussed.

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