When Leadership Meets Talent and Technology: Understanding Drivers of Employees' Green Innovative Work Behavior
Keywords:
Green entrepreneurial leadership, green talent management, Digital technology capability, green innovative work behavior, batik MSMEsAbstract
Introduction/Main Objectives: The objective of this study is to strengthen the theoretical and empirical understanding of the impact of Green Entrepreneurial Leadership (GEL) on employees’ Green Innovative Work Behavior (EGIWB), mediated by Digital Technology Capability (DTC) and moderated by Green Talent Management (GTM). The research specifically focuses on batik MSMEs in East Java.
Background Problems: Employees’ green innovative work behavior in batik MSMEs remains very limited. This is evident from the dominant use of chemical dyes, low initiative in proposing eco-friendly innovations, and minimal promotion and implementation of green practices. These shortcomings hinder the ability of batik MSMEs in East Java to adopt sustainable practices and meet market demand for environmentally friendly products.
Novelty: The novelty of this study lies in integrating three main constructs—green entrepreneurial leadership, green talent management, and digital technology capability—to explain employees’ green innovative work behavior. Few previous studies have examined the interrelationship of these variables simultaneously, particularly in traditional creative industries such as batik, which are currently adapting to sustainability and digitalization demands.
Research Methods: A quantitative methodology was utilized to gather data from 220 batik MSME owners in East Java through accidental–purposive sampling, ensuring respondents were active, had at least three years of business experience, and were willing to utilize digital platforms. The data were analyzed via PLS-SEM with SmartPLS to evaluate the hypotheses.
Findings/Results: The results indicate that Green Entrepreneurial Leadership (GEL) significantly enhances Employees’ Green Innovative Work Behavior (EGIWB). Moreover, Green Talent Management (GTM) mediates this relationship, while Digital Technology Capability (DTC) acts as a moderator that strengthens the influence of GEL on EGIWB.
Conclusion: Green Entrepreneurial Leadership (GEL) enhances Employees’ Green Innovative Work Behavior (EGIWB) through effective Green Talent Management (GTM) and strong Digital Technology Capability (DTC).
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