The relationship between humble leadership and employee innovative behavior in Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage (CICH) SMEs: Mediated-moderating effect of knowledge sharing and absorptive capacity

Abstract

This research focuses on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within China's intangible cultural heritage (CICH) sector and investigates the relationships between employee innovative behavior (EIB), humble leadership (HL), knowledge sharing (KS) and absorptive capacity (AC). It examines how knowledge sharing, as a mediator, impacts EIB, considering the moderating role of AC. This study aims to address the knowledge gap regarding how leadership and knowledge management processes affect individual-level outcomes, such as creative behavior and problem-solving skills. This research is especially vital for the CICH sector in China, as it offers the first systematic exploration of employee innovative behavior in this area. By providing evidence-based management strategies, the study contributes to both theoretical understanding and practical application, supporting the innovation, sustainable growth, and international competitiveness of CICH SMEs. It also offers policymakers empirical insights to nurture the sector, ensuring the preservation and evolution of China's intangible cultural heritage.