The Effect of Workplace Friendship vs. Leader-Member Exchange on Organizational Citizenship Behavior in Taiwan

Abstract

noneThis study pursued dual objectives: firstly, to examine the impact of workplace friendship (WF) on organizational citizenship behavior (OCB); and secondly, to analyze the influence of leader-member exchange (LMX) on OCB among employees in Taiwan’s financial industry. Additionally, the research aimed to compare which interpersonal relationship factor exerted a greater influence on OCB. These objectives stemmed from the scarcity of research within Taiwan’s financial industry on these relationships and potential national cultural differences from research conducted in other cultural regions. This study utilized a quantitative research approach. Employing snowball and convenience sampling, the research focused on individuals in Taiwan’s financial sector with a minimum of six months of work experience under the same supervisor. The findings of the study confirmed the positive relationships between WF, LMX, and OCB, with LMX exerting a greater influence. Understanding the role of workplace friendship and LMX in influencing OCB assisted employers and human resource managers in formulating effective workplace policies, implementing targeted interventions, and fostering a positive social environment. This strategic focus on improving OCB not only contributed to building a sustainable competitive advantage but also enhanced overall job satisfaction among financial industry workers.