Perceived Overqualification, Creative Deviance and Radical Innovation: Perspective of Resource Gain

Abstract

Prior studies have examined the negative effects of overqualification on individuals and organizations, but ignored the positive creative potential that this study emphasizes. Drawing on the conservation of resources (COR) theory, we investigate a potentially positive effect of overqualification on radical innovation from the perspective of resource gain spiral. In accordance with COR theory, we propose that two factors, transformational leadership and error management culture, might foster resource gain spiral of overqualified employees. Examining data collected from multiple waves, we find that overqualification is positively associated with radical innovation via creative deviance; transformational leadership strengthens the relationship between perceived overqualification and creative deviance, and error management culture strengthens the relationship between creative deviance and radical innovation. The results enrich the research on overqualification and innovation, along with implications for organizations regarding better management of overqualified employees.