Leader and Follower PO Value Congruence and Charismatic Leadership

Drawing on the self-concept based motivational theory of charisma, we propose that leaders’ person-organization (PO) value congruence affects the attribution of charisma to these leaders and, in turn, leader charisma enhances follower value congruence. In two multi-source studies, we find that unit leaders higher on perceived PO value congruence were rated higher on charisma by their subordinates. In turn, these subordinates also show higher PO value congruence themselves. In addition, as expected the relationship of perceived charismatic leadership with follower organizational commitment was mediated by follower perceptions of PO value congruence. Finally, in line with theory emphasizing leadership as a sense-making process, charismatic leadership related positively with follower perceptions of PO value congruence even when actual PO value congruence was controlled for.