Igniting work innovation: performance pressure, extraversion, feedback seeking and innovative behavior

Abstract

Purpose

This study investigates how performance pressure affects feedback-seeking and innovative work behaviors. The study also examines the effect of extraversion on the performance pressure–FSB relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses in this study were tested by analyzing two-wave data collected from a sample of employees in the information technology sector in India using the PLS-SEM approach.

Findings

Our findings revealed that individuals possessing extraverted personality traits exhibited a positive response to performance pressure, thereby enhancing their FSB. Moreover, our results demonstrated that FSB mediates the relationship between performance pressure and IWB.

Research limitations/implications

The results underscore the importance of individual variations in personality traits, particularly extraversion, in influencing how employees respond to performance pressure. By providing insights into the mediating mechanism of feedback-seeking behavior, our study contributes to a deeper understanding of the interplay between performance pressure, feedback-seeking behavior and innovative work behavior.

Practical implications

Managers should consider extraversion as a factor in the relationship between performance pressure and FSB, adapting strategies and support systems accordingly. Creating a feedback-oriented culture and providing resources for extroverts during high-pressure periods can enhance their coping mechanisms.

Originality/value

Previous research has provided a limited exploration of the mechanisms that establish the connection between job demands and innovative work behaviors. This study contributes by uncovering the previously unexplored relationship between performance pressure, extraversion, feedback-seeking behavior and, subsequently, innovative work behavior.

Citation

Arun Kumar, P. and Lavanya, V. (2024), "Igniting work innovation: performance pressure, extraversion, feedback seeking and innovative behavior", Management Decision, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/MD-05-2023-0839