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A field study of 49 Junior Achievement Companies was conducted over a 6-month period in which a sociometric alternative to conventional measures of leader-member exchanges was used. Evidence is presented suggesting that not only is the exchange process observable, but also the sociometric assessment of leader-member exchanges converges with conventional measures of the exchange process. Evidence is also presented suggesting that certain demographic variables are predictive of In/Out group status, thus suggesting that quality of exchange may in part be explained by compatibility of a group member with a leader. Finally, evidence is presented suggesting that observable differences in leader-member relations do not necessarily lead to a lessened sense of influence, job enrichment, or satisfaction with the leader for Outgroup members.

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Purpose -Many studies have examined outcomes and antecedents of leader-member exchange (LMX), but few studies have explored how LMX is related to specific types of leadership behaviors. The purpose of this paper is to examines a more comprehensive set of leader behaviors than any previous study on LMX. Design/methodology/approach -This paper reports the result of a survey study with a sample of 248 respondents from a diverse set of industries, organizations, and occupations. Respondents rated specific behaviors of their manager and the quality of the exchange relationship. Findings -Four of the five relations-oriented behaviors (supporting, recognizing, consulting, and delegating) were strongly related to LMX. The task-oriented behaviors (clarifying, planning, monitoring) were not significantly related to LMX. Results for the transformational behaviors were mixed. The relations-oriented aspects of transformational leadership appear to have more influence on LMX than the change-oriented aspects. Originality/value -The present study clarifies the relationship between leader behavior and LMX. Practical implications of the findings for managers are discussed. Some recommendations for future research are provided.