What makes managers effective in Mexico?

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study was to identify what people in Mexican organizations perceive as effective and ineffective managerial behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative study based on the grounded theory approach was conducted. Interviews using the critical incident techniques were conducted with 35 participants from six different companies located in Yucatan, Mexico.

Findings

Results suggest that effective managers in Mexico are considered approachable, democratic, fair, considerate, understanding, supportive, caring, and hard working with problem solving skills.

Research limitations/implications

This study is based on the responses of participants located in one region of Mexico. This study focused on the perceptions of Mexican participants only.

Practical implications

Findings of this study have practical implications for human resources professionals, Mexican managers, and expatriates who manage operations and manage people in Mexico. Human resources professionals can use the findings of this study to develop programs for leadership and management development. For Mexican managers, this study set parameters of what is considered effective or ineffective management behavior. Also, the findings of this study can help multinational companies better prepare expatriates for their international assignments in Mexico.

Originality/value

The article explores leadership practices internationally.

Citation

Ruiz, C.E., Wang, J. and Hamlin, R.G. (2013), "What makes managers effective in Mexico?", Leadership & Organization Development Journal, Vol. 34 No. 2, pp. 130-146. https://doi.org/10.1108/01437731311321904