Effects of Collectivism on Chinese Organizational Citizenship Behavior: Guanxi As Moderator

Abstract

We conducted a survey to verify the relationship between vertical and horizontal collectivism and Chinese organizational citizenship behavior (Chinese OCB) with a focus on the moderating effects of guanxi. Data were collected through emails and an online survey from 432 full-time Chinese employees. The findings of the study indicated that collective orientation was positively related to Chinese OCB, and that guanxi moderated only the relationship between vertical collectivism and Chinese OCB. Our findings help strengthen the understanding of the dimensions of Chinese OCB. Theoretical contributions are discussed; in particular, possible reasons for the nonsignificant moderating effects of guanxi on horizontal collectivism and Chinese OCB are given. Study results provide not only practical implications for existing employers or human resource managers, but also for start-up entrepreneurs in their human resource management practices and innovative policies. Limitations of the study are pointed out and topics for future research are suggested.