Stratified systems theory holds that hierarchical differentiation of jobs in organizations differ systematically in their cognitive complexity requirements, and that managers perform most effectively and are happiest when their own complexity level matches that of their position. In the present study, the cognitive complexity level of 22 hotel managers was assessed, and their potential for promotion to Area Manager was evaluated. The relationship between the two was significant beyond .01. Of the seven who were actually promoted during a three-year period, all but two were high on complexity. One of the two low on complexity later was demoted.
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