Are we in Time? An Actor-Partner Interdependence Approach toward Time Pressure

Although research has shown that time pressure can shape employees’ behavior and work outcomes, little remains known about how differing perceptions of time pressure between cooperating individuals may influence their behavioral reactions. The present investigation addresses this issue by examining the joint role of a focal individual’s (i.e., an actor’s) and a dyadic interaction partner’s time pressure perceptions for the actor’s time-oriented and relationship-oriented behavior toward the partner. We tested our predictions using an online and a laboratory experiment across two different cultural contexts. Results demonstrated that an actor’s perceptions of time pressure were positively related with his or her time-oriented behavior. Also, in Study 1 (but not Study 2), the partner’s time pressure perceptions moderated this association, such that the linkage between an actor’s time pressure and time-oriented behavior was more pronounced when the partner experienced lower (rather than higher) time pressure. Furthermore, the partner’s time pressure perceptions moderated the role of an actor’s time pressure for his or her relationship-oriented behavior across both studies. This linkage was positive and significant when the partner experienced high (but not low) time pressure. In sum, this research advances new insights into the consequences of time pressure in cooperating dyads, illustrating that conflicting time pressure perceptions may critically influence individuals’ interpersonal behavior in such settings.