A Study on the Virtual Superior-Subordinate Relationship in Rarejob Philippines, Inc.

Abstract

Following the Leader-Member Exchange Theory, this qualitative research is aimed at determining the process of building and maintaining virtual superior-subordinate relationships in Rarejob Philippines, Inc. The study was conducted with a total of 31 respondents of which 30 were online tutors and 1 was a key-informant superior and. Using an open-ended interview administered online and analyzed through a thematic matrix, this research found that though the company lacks in actual face-to-face interactions, both superior and subordinates agree that their relationship is a healthy and effective one. Thru the use of CMC as a means of communicating, the concept of ingroup and out-group in the LMX theory was diminished. The lack of face-to-face interaction from using computer-mediated communication as a means of building and maintaining working relationships proved to be advantageous as regards the openness of communication exchange between superiors and subordinates.