The influence of individual regulatory focus and accountability form in a high performance work system

Our mixed-methods study considers how alignment of HR practices contributes to success in a high performing manufacturing firm with a contingent reward system. Results showed greater task and challenge performance for promotion focused individuals and lower challenge performance for prevention focused individuals. Accountability also predicted higher levels of task and challenge performance. Finally, accountability moderated the regulatory focus–performance relationship such that both forms of performance were higher for individuals higher in promotion focus who perceived themselves accountable for the corresponding outcome, task or innovation. Prevention focused individuals had higher challenge performance the greater their perception of accountability for innovation.