How Does Perceived Negative Workplace Gossip Influence Employee Knowledge Sharing Behavior

Abstract

Based on social information processing theory, this study explored the impact of perceived negative workplace gossip on employees’ knowledge sharing behavior. It further examined the mediating role of work engagement and the moderating role of caring ethical climate in the process. Data from 295 employees from 10 hotels indicated that: (1) employees’ perceived negative workplace gossip negatively affected their knowledge sharing behavior; (2) work engagement mediated the relationship between perceived negative workplace gossip and knowledge sharing behavior; (3) caring ethical climate moderated the direct influence of perceived negative workplace gossip on work engagement as well as the process of perceived negative workplace gossip influencing knowledge sharing behavior through work engagement. This study expanded the understanding about the effects and influencing mechanisms of negative gossip in the workplace. It also has practical implications for organizations and managers to better deal with negative gossip in the workplace, to foster a good team climate, and to promote knowledge sharing among employees.