Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) theory is based on the interactions between leaders and follower. One of the key components of earlier LMX theories is the premise of the out-group/in-group idea (Northouse, 2013). The out-group comes in, does the job, and leaves at the end of the day. The out-group usually does not receive any of the prime assignments and the in-group volunteers to do extra tasks which permits the in-group to receive the first choice in future assignments. The in-group might be considered the favorites of the leader but since kindergarten most people have been members of either group and does not change after the high school graduation. One of the limitations of LMX theory is that there is not a clear plan to move from the out-group into the in-group (Northouse, 2013). However, I had the opportunity to move from the out-group to the in-group.
This is my story how I went from being a member of the out-group to the in-group and then back to the out-group. When I started my job, I was a member of the out-group. Since I was a member of the out-group, I was able to observe the actions that the in-group did which was to accept any of the different jobs and shifts required for the department. After a few months, I had to replace someone on first shift and that day was the day that I started to become a member of the in-group. Eventually, I did become a member of the in-group by accepting any shift and almost any job that I was requested to do.
In April of 2009, I had a life-changing event that changed how I viewed work, family, and friends. My mother was diagnosed with cancer and 3 ½ weeks later; she passed away. At that time, I realized that I needed a balance between work and a social life (friends/family). I slowly stopped accepting overtime and double shifts. Since I did not work any overtime, I became a member of the out-group again but am not treated any differently from my bosses.
Later studies have shown that the LMX theory empowers some followers (Northouse, 2013). An empowered follower usually does not leave their job and has an increase in job performance. I do feel empowered by my leader/manager is make certain decisions and does increase my self-confidence. An empowered follower is a happier which makes the leader happier.
Northouse, P.G. (2013). Leadership: Theory and Practice. Los Angeles, CA: Sage Publications, Inc.