The double-edged sword effect of leader digital competence on employees’ proactive innovation behavior

Purpose This study constructs a double-path chain mediation model and explores the double-edged sword effect of leader digital competence on employees' proactive innovative behaviors. Design/methodology/approach Hierarchical regression methodology is used to analyze two-stage questionnaire survey data from 303 employees. Findings Leader digital competence has a positive impact on employees’ proactive innovative behaviors through challenge appraisal and thriving at work but a negative impact through hindrance appraisal and work alienation. Growth need strength moderates these relationships. Originality/value This study explores the influence mechanism of leader digital competence on employees’ proactive innovation behavior, breaks through the limitation of a single perspective that only focuses on its positive effects and provides a more comprehensive and dialectical perspective for relevant studies on leader digital competence.