RESEARCH REPORT Achieving Desired Images While Avoiding Undesired Images : Exploring the Role of Self-Monitoring in Impression Management

A study was conducted to test the hypothesis that high self-monitors more effectively manage impressions than low self-monitors do . Students in work groups indicated the extent to which they used 5 impression-management tactics over the course of a semester-long project. At the project's conclusion, students provided their perceptions of the other members of their group. The relationship between impression managemen t and image favorability was then examined across 339 student-student dyads. The results generally sugges t tha t high self-monitors ca n use impression-management tactics mor e effectively than can low self-monitors. In particular, high self-monitors appear to be more adept than low self-monitors a t using ingratiation, self-promotion, and exemplification to achieve favorable images among their colleagues.