Abstract：Based on multiple cases method, we explore the characteristics and mechanisms of goals evolution behind outside leaders’ succession in the TMT of firms. We find that the dynamic fit among successors’ goals, firm’s goals and the succession stage can influence whether the successors will stay or not. We propose that there exist three modes of goal fitting: dyadic fitting, single fit and non-fit. Dyadic fit has positive effect on the successors’ stay while single fit and non-fit have negative bearings for successors’ stay. Furthermore, we find that successors’ stay is influenced by task-oriented and relationship-oriented capabilities. We construct the dynamic fitting model on the grounds that what the firms require about the task-oriented and relationship-oriented capabilities are inextricably related with the succession stage.
2014, Vol. 11 
