An integrative framework of innovative work behavior for employees in SMEs linking knowledge sharing, functional flexibility and psychological empowerment
European Journal of Innovation Management
ISSN: 1460-1060
Article publication date: 30 August 2021
Issue publication date: 8 March 2023
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to propose a model based on knowledge sharing (KS) to explore that how functional flexibility (FF) and psychological empowerment (PE) plays a mediating role between KS and innovative work behavior (IWB) among employees of small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Design/methodology/approach
Cross-sectional plan was employed to investigate the hypothesized model. Survey instrument was used to collect data from 769 employees of SMEs through self-administered questionnaires. Furthermore, correlation and structural equation modeling approach was used for the analysis of collected data.
Findings
The findings revealed that KS has a significant positive relationship with IWB. Second, FF and PE fully mediate between KS and IWB.
Originality/value
This study offers empirical evidence how to flourish a mechanism of IWB among employees in SMEs. Furthermore, this study highlighted some facts that should be meaningful options for human resource managers to understand the nexus of KS, FF and PE for enhancing the IWB among workers in SMEs. Moreover, the study in hand provided significant implications for management by focusing on KS as a fundamental predictor for IWB via FF and PE.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Funding Statement: Researchers Supporting Project number (RSP-2021/87), King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Ethical statement: During the conduct of this research, we make it sure to maintain the quality and integrity of research. Confidentiality and anonymity of research respondents have been maintained and all the participants have participated in study on voluntarily basis. Furthermore, we confirm that this research is independent and impartial. Besides, different international standards and policies have also been taken into consideration for writing up process like plagiarism, copy right, etc.
Conflict of Interest: There is no conflict of interest between authors.
Citation
Yasir, M., Majid, A., Yousaf, Z., Nassani, A.A. and Haffar, M. (2023), "An integrative framework of innovative work behavior for employees in SMEs linking knowledge sharing, functional flexibility and psychological empowerment", European Journal of Innovation Management, Vol. 26 No. 2, pp. 289-308. https://doi.org/10.1108/EJIM-02-2021-0091
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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