Managerial ties and firm performance in a transition economy: The nature of a micro-macro link

Using survey data from China, we demonstrate that managers' micro interpersonal ties with top executives at other firms and with government officials help improve macro organizational performance. This micro-macro link differs among firms with different (1) ownership types, (2) business sectors, (3) sizes, and (4) industry growth rates. In addition, managerial ties were found to be necessary but insufficient for good performance; a number of traditional strategy variables also drive performance. Theoretically, the findings point to the importance of the social context in which managerial ties are embedded. Empirically, this study provides the first set of quantitative data demonstrating both the extent and limits to which managerial ties are beneficial in a transition economy.