When Does Leader–Subordinate (In)Congruence in Power Distance Orientation Affect Employees’ Work Engagement? The Moderating Effect of Team Structure Clarity

Identification occurs when two individuals share the same concept of self-identity. Building on this identity theory, we use a polynomial regression and response surface analytical framework to examine the effect of leader–subordinate power distance orientation (PDO) congruence on leader identification, and the consequent influence of leader identification on subordinate work engagement. In addition, we explored the moderating effect of team structure clarity on the relationship between leader–subordinate PDO congruence and leader identification, and proposed that team structure clarity moderates the indirect effect of leader–subordinate PDO congruence on work engagement through leader identification. Our study not only enriches the body of research on the effects of leader–subordinate PDO congruence, but it also provides practical guidance to managers on building clear team structures that can strengthen the positive effects of leader–subordinate PDO congruence on work engagement.