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ILR Impact Brief - Group Success Depends on Giving Individuals Credit Where Credit Is Due

Author
Goncalo, Jack A.; Duguid, Michelle M.
Abstract
[Excerpt] Does the tendency of groups to take credit for their success without acknowledging the input of specific group members affect subsequent group performance? In a word, yes. This “group-serving bias” may cause groups to ignore or underestimate the potentially unique contributions made by each individual member, a common practice that can lead to inferior outcomes. When groups ascribe their success to individuals, they are more likely to explore a wide range of divergent alternatives before reaching consensus. Attribution to individuals also facilitates the sharing of information that is known to only one member of the group but is critical to making the right, or best, decision.
Journal/Series
Impact Brief
Description
The ILR Impact Brief series highlights the research and project based work conducted by ILR faculty that is relevant to workplace issues and public policy. The Briefs are prepared by Maralyn Edid, Senior Extension Associate, ILR School.
Date Issued
2008-10-01Subject
group performance; group practices; teamwork; groupthink
Related to
For a more in-depth analysis, please see: Goncalo, J. A. & Duguid, M. M. (forthcoming). Group success depends on giving individuals credit where credit is due. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes.
Rights
Required Publisher Statement: Copyright by Cornell University.
Type
newsletter