How do leaders’ expressions of gratitude relate to subordinates’ promotion focus? Links to job crafting and voice

Abstract We explore the impact of leader gratitude expression on subordinates’ proactive career behaviors, job crafting (seeking resources, seeking challenges, and reducing demands) and voice behaviors (promotive and prohibitive voice), and the mediating mechanism by subordinate promotion focus. A survey data from 597 full-time employees, analyzed using structural equation modeling and bootstrapping analyses, supported hypothesized relationships. Promotion focus mediated the relationship between leader gratitude expression and all dimensions of job crafting and voice behaviors. This study contributes to the literature on leadership and regulatory focus. We discuss future research and implications for leadership practice and career self-management.