Abstract: Some individuals in organisations are more helpful than others, and their actions may inspire others to follow suit. Organizational success depends, at least in part, on employees proactively helping one another to achieve work goals (Grant et al, 2009; Spitzmuller & Van Dyne, 2013). Although research has identified a host of antecedents of helping behaviours at work, the importance of leadership is undeniable (e.g., Le Pine, Erez, & Johnson, 2002). As a result of their position in the organisational hierarchy, leaders’ behaviours toward followers present salient cues that influence follower behaviours, otherwise known as the trickle-down effect (Masterson, 2001).

Amanda Shantz is an Associate Professor of Human Resource Management. Prior to joining Trinity College Dublin, Amanda held academic positions in Canada, France, and the United Kingdom. Amanda completed her doctoral degree at the University of Toronto, received her master’s degree from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and her undergraduate degree from McGill University.