The Double Channel Synergy of Motivation in Predicting Entrepreneur’s Creativity and Firm Innovation

Abstract

In this research, role of motivational impact on entrepreneur’s creativity and following startup innovation was discussed and examined. Drawing on componential model of creativity (Amabile, 1983, 1988, 1996) and motivated information processing in group model (MIP-G model; De Dreu et al., 2008a, 2008b), I proposed that creativity is influenced by intrinsic motivation, prosocial motivation and furthermore, motivational synergy through these two channels. In internal channel, intrinsic motivation is critical for creativity by promoting the individual’s positive reaction to qualities of task itself (Amabile, 1996, p. 115). In external channel, however, taking social information processes (Salancik, & Pfeffer, 1978) as a driving force, minority dissent will influence team by producing individual creativity (De Dreu et al., 2008a; 2008b) and improving group performance (Gong et al., 2013) when members have high prosocial motivation. Under interaction of internal channel and external channel, intrinsic motivation will enhance impact of prosocial motivation on individual creativity. Hypotheses were proposed based on theoretical framework and tested according to evidence from organizational field research. Implications for motivation as driving force of creativity are discussed.