Journal Press India^®

Author Details ( * ) denotes Corresponding author

Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine the interrelationship between certain interpersonal psychological factors and knowledge sharing behaviors. Work Engagement was considered to be the mediator of the relationship between Big Five Personality Traits and Knowledge Sharing.

Design/Methodology/Approach: “Big Five Personality Traits” scaled by Gosling, Rentfrow, & Swann, (2003), “Utrecht Work Engagement” scale developed by Schaufeli & Bakker (2003) and “Knowledge Sharing Behavior” (KSB) scale developed by Yi (2009) were used in the construction of the questionnaire. Data was collected from 450 valid questionnaires distributed across knowledge based organizations. SmartPLS 2.0.M3 software was used to apply ‘Partial Least Square’ technique of ‘Structural Equation Modeling’ in order to analyze the proposed associations.

Findings: Among Big Five Personality Traits, conscientiousness was found to be the most significant trait in explaining the knowledge sharing. Openness to experience was, however, found to be insignificant. Work Engagement was also found to be an important factor to promote knowledge sharing, however, its performance was found to be comparatively lower than other factors considered in our study.

Research Limitations/Implications: The accuracy of the analysis is dependent upon the accuracy of the data reported by selected organizations.

Practical Implications: The results of this study would help knowledge based organizations to better understand the effect of interpersonal factors on knowledge sharing, hence finding optimal ways to improve knowledge sharing.

Originality/value: This is one of the few researches which have been conducted in India that studies the relationship of interpersonal factors on knowledge sharing.

Keywords

Knowledge Sharing, Personality, Work Engagement, Mediation.

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