Title: Employee social media usage, workplace social capital and employee-driven innovation: finding the missing pieces of the puzzle

Authors: Georgia Sakka; Alkis Thrassou; Ioanna Papasolomou; Christiana Stylianou; Chrystalla Markou

Addresses: Department of Management, School of Business, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus; School of Business, Unicaf University, Larnaca, Cyprus ' Department of Management, School of Business, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus ' Department of Management, School of Business, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus ' Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Faculty of Tourism Management, Hospitality and Entrepreneurship, Cyprus University of Technology, Paphos, Cyprus ' Department of Hospitality Management, Faculty of Hospitality Management, Alexander College, Larnaca, Cyprus

Abstract: This paper presents a conceptual framework that explores the complex interplay between social media, social capital, and employee-driven innovation in the modern workplace. Through an in-depth critical analysis review by using propositions, the study aims to provide a deeper theoretical understanding of these relationships and their practical implications. Specifically, it highlights the role of social media usage for social and work-related purposes in shaping workplace bonding and bridging ties. These ties foster cooperation, trust, collaboration, knowledge exchange, and access to expertise and resources, ultimately supporting employee-driven innovation and enhancing employee task creativity and decision-making. This study contributes to the literature by providing a comprehensive theoretical understanding of these relationships and their implications for organisational vitality and employee competitiveness.

Keywords: workplace social capital; social media; employee innovation; employee competitiveness.

DOI: 10.1504/JIBED.2024.144635

Journal for International Business and Entrepreneurship Development, 2024 Vol.16 No.4, pp.450 - 469

Received: 29 Oct 2024
Accepted: 30 Oct 2024
Published online: 25 Feb 2025 *

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