The Influence of Temporal Fit/Nonfit on Creativity in the Leader-Subordinate Context: The Moderating Role of Task Enjoyment versus Performance Concern

Abstract

This study extends regulatory fit theory by exploring boundary conditions of the temporal fit/nonfit effect on subordinate creativity. We propose that fit (nonfit) between subordinates’ regulatory focus and the temporal distance of a leader-stipulated task enhances subordinate creativity under task-enjoyment (performance-concern) conditions. Data supported the nonfit hypothesis among promotion-focused subordinates: Subordinates who were more promotion-focused showed greater creativity after recalling a leader-stipulated, temporally near task when they concentrated on doing well rather than on enjoying the task. Prevention-focused subordinates showed no such patterns for creativity. Implications for managing employee creativity in the competitive, performance-pressured organizational and business environment are discussed