Linking workplace ostracism and knowledge hoarding via organizational climate: a review and research agenda

Abstract

PurposeThis study aims to analyze the relationship between workplace ostracism and knowledge hoarding. The study also proposes a mediational role of organizational climate in the relationship between workplace ostracism and knowledge hoarding.Design/methodology/approachThe procedure used in the study is a systematic literature review covering workplace ostracism, knowledge hoarding and organizational climate from 1986 to 2021. The studies were explored using keyword searches such as “Workplace ostracism”, “Knowledge hoarding” and “Organizational climate” from the selected databases, namely, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar.FindingsThe systematic review of 146 articles found most studies suggesting that workplace ostracism affects employees’ personal and professional relationships and is a precursor to knowledge hoarding behaviours. The workplace ostracism–knowledge hoarding relationship has a logical explanation as knowledge hoarding is often perceived as counter-normative, which can reduce the performance of a hoarder, leading to behaviours such as ostracism and expulsion. The review proposes that organizational climate plays a significant role in improving the workplace ostracism and knowledge hoarding relationship. The study introduces some fundamental propositions towards the development of a model for future research.Originality/valueThe study attempts to uncover a series of relationships between workplace ostracism, knowledge hoarding and organizational climate, which may enhance academic discussion and offer clarity to the conceptualization of these two fields.