Perceptions unfolded: managerial implementation in perception formation

Abstract

Purpose

The literature so far has shown that perceptions of managerial interventions matter for motivation and performance. However, how these perceptions are formed and develop over time is less clear. The purpose of this paper is to fill part of this gap.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a panel case study to investigate how perceptions of a managerial intervention are formed and developed over time among daycare workers in a Danish municipality.

Findings

The paper reveals the dynamic nature of preferences and the centrality of the local manager in perception formation, illustrating that it is not necessarily the implementation style (soft/hard) that is important as much as the managerial involvement in the initiative.

Practical implications

Whereas managers are still well advised to consider the pros and cons of a hard vs a soft implementation approach, this paper also underlines the importance of constant managerial involvement not only to ensure implementation but also to continuously impact the way managerial interventions are perceived.

Originality/value

The paper adds to the existing knowledge about perception formation by using a panel case study, hence illustrating the dynamic character of perception formation.

Citation

Grøn, C.H. (2018), "Perceptions unfolded: managerial implementation in perception formation", International Journal of Public Sector Management, Vol. 31 No. 6, pp. 710-725. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJPSM-09-2017-0237