The effect of entrepreneurial leadership on innovative work behavior: the mediating roles of creative self-efficacy and organizational learning

Purpose This research aims to examine entrepreneurial leadership’s (EL) impact on employees’ innovative work practices in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Afghanistan. It specifically investigates the mediating roles of self-efficacy and organizational learning (OL) in the association between EL and innovative workplace behavior. The objective of the investigation is to offer a better understanding of how EL can cultivate a more innovative and creative work environment within Afghanistan’s businesses (SMEs). Design/methodology/approach A random sampling process was used to identify a representative sample of 150 CEOs and managers from Afghanistan’s SMEs. A questionnaire was distributed to each chosen participant. The SPSS and SmartPLS techniques were used to analyze the data to investigate the relationships among the research variables. The methodology emphasizes the quantitative evaluation of the mediating effects of self-efficacy and creativity in the context of EL. Findings The study results indicate that EL has a substantial and beneficial impact on creative self-efficacy (CSE). Furthermore, EL has been demonstrated to have an important constructive effect on innovative work practices. In addition, the results suggest that innovative work practices are substantially and positively influenced by CSE. Furthermore, there is a positive and substantial correlation between EL, inventive workplace conduct, OL and CSE. Research limitations/implications First, this study was conducted in Afghanistan. This may affect the generalizability of the findings to other contexts or regions. To improve the external validity of the findings, the upcoming investigations need to expand the sample size and incorporate SMEs from various countries. Second, this study used cross-sectional correlation design. A longitudinal investigation could suggest further profound perspectives regarding entrepreneurial leadership’s long-term influences on SMEs’ innovation. Practical implications The results indicate that to foster an increase in innovative work behavior, executives must provide employees with more opportunities to develop creative ideas in the workplace. The development of EL within SMEs can improve their innovative work practices and CSE. Programs for training and advancement that emphasize cultivating EL capabilities among managers and executives can be advantageous for SMEs. This can result in a more dynamic and innovative work environment, which in turn enhances the overall performance and competitiveness of the enterprises. Social implications By promoting EL and innovation within SMEs, the study highlights the potential for increased job satisfaction and motivation among employees. This can lead to higher productivity and economic growth in the SME sector, contributing to the overall socio-economic development of Afghanistan. Encouraging a culture of innovation can also inspire other sectors to adopt similar practices, fostering a more entrepreneurial and creative society. Originality/value The empirical evidence presented in this investigation supports the present works by signifying the mediating roles of self-efficacy and creativity in the association between EL and innovative workplace behavior. It provides valuable insights for both academicians and practitioners who are interested in comprehending the impact of leadership styles on creativity and innovation in SMEs, particularly in the context of a developing country such as Afghanistan.