Knowledge sharing as a cornerstone for sustainability: the dual mediating roles of job engagement and meaningful work

Abstract

Purpose This study, grounded in social exchange theory, aims to explore the relationship between knowledge sharing and organizational sustainability, with a particular focus on the dual mediating roles of job-related psychological factors, specifically job engagement and meaningful work. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 373 employees across six large companies in South Korea. The study then used Model 6 of Hayes’ PROCESS hierarchical regression of SPSS 29 for hypothesis testing. Findings The study reveals a strong connection between knowledge sharing and its positive influence on employee job engagement and the perception of meaningful work, both of which play essential mediating roles in promoting organizational sustainability. The findings emphasize the critical importance of knowledge sharing in driving sustainability efforts, showing how the interplay between job engagement and meaningful work significantly enhances these outcomes. Originality/value This research contributes to social exchange theory by demonstrating the dual mediating roles of job engagement and meaningful work between knowledge sharing and sustainability.