Fostering the innovative behaviour of SME employees: a social capital perspective

Although developing the innovative behaviour of employees is considered to contribute to improving organisational efficiency and effectiveness, very little is known about innovative behaviour within the context of small to medium enterprises (SMEs). Human resource managers who are able to develop the innovative behaviour of employees create an opportunity in which an employee's behaviour can be aligned with organisational goals. This study explores several antecedents contributing to the innovative behaviour of employees. The findings confirm that the organisational factors tested affect both the innovative behaviour of employees and the innovative culture that supports innovative behaviour in the workplace. These findings outline implications for management that require the development of employee innovative capability if they are to gain a competitive advantage in the contemporary business arena.