Shaping Corporate Character Through Symmetrical Communication: The Effects on Employee-Organization Relationships

This study investigates how corporate character is shaped by organizational symmetrical communication and its effects on the quality of employee-organization relationships. Results of an online survey with 314 working adults in the United States showed that symmetrical internal communication plays an important role in defining the organization’s positive character of agreeableness (i.e., warmth, empathy, and integrity), enterprise (i.e., modernity, adventure, and boldness), and competence (i.e., conscientiousness, drive). Symmetrical internal communication positively influences the quality of employee-organization relationships. The ruthless corporate character showed significant negative effects on employee trust, control mutuality, commitment, and satisfaction. The theoretical and managerial implications of the study are discussed.