When investment in employee development promotes knowledge sharing behavior in an uncertain post-Soviet context

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the effect of perceived investment in employee development (PIED) on knowledge sharing (KS) behavior by examining the mediating role of psychological capital and moderating role of organizational identification. Design/methodology/approach Questionnaires were used to collect data from 340 employees from largest MNCs working in Kazakhstan. Findings The results show that psychological capital mediates the relationship between PIED and knowledge sharing behavior (KSB). Moreover, it was found that organizational identification moderates the association between individuals’ psychological capital and their KSB. The mediated moderation analyses supported the hypothesized model. Originality/value This paper contributes to a more complete understanding of how investment in employee development may support or build employees’ psychological capital which in turn facilitates KS.