Abstract
Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has gained attention for its potential to enhance organisational performance and contribute to societal well-being. Research shows that employees’ attribution of substantive CSR has a positive impact on their work behaviours. Our study highlights the importance of the attribution of substantive CSR by top management teams (TMT) and the congruence between TMT and employee attributions of CSR. It is critical for organisations to ensure that TMT and employees share a common understanding and agreement on the organisation’s CSR initiatives. Matching TMT with employees on their attributions of CSR is a crucial factor in encouraging employees to engage in socially responsible activation and advocate for the organisation’s CSR initiatives. We tested our theoretical model using a sample of 1171 employees and 278 executives with a multi-wave, multi-sources survey study. The study contributes to research and practice in the field of CSR by emphasizing the importance of considering the congruence of TMT and employee attributions of substantive CSR. By investing in creating a shared understanding and agreement on CSR initiatives, organisations can promote positive work behaviours and enhance organisational performance while contributing to societal well-being.