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1 – 10 of 18Jaekyo Seo, Raymond Leach and Suhyung Lee
While founder characteristics have been studied extensively as a factor in attracting employees, organizational attributes of startups have received little attention. To fill the…
Abstract
Purpose
While founder characteristics have been studied extensively as a factor in attracting employees, organizational attributes of startups have received little attention. To fill the void, this study aims to examine organizational attributes of startups to attract employees.
Design/methodology/approach
This research collected 8,817 online employer reviews of 117 startups from Glassdoor.com. This research conducted two studies. In Study 1, a topic modeling approach was applied to identify startup attributes to attract employees having actual employer experience and to examine the importance and relationship of the attributes, drawing the person–organization fit theory. Study 2 used logistic regression analysis to explore the effect of identified attributes on employer attractiveness based on the signaling theory.
Findings
Study 1 found six attributes: high-quality coworkers, entrepreneurial culture, development, company outlook, physical office and stereotypical startup perks. This study also found high-quality coworkers, entrepreneurial culture and development are not only related to each other but also more critical attributes than other attributes. The core value of the three attributes can be conceptualized as “learning opportunity.” Study 2 found that employees attracted to “learning opportunity” are more likely to recommend their employers than instrumental attributes, including physical office and stereotypical startup perks.
Originality/value
This research elaborates on employer attributes to attract employees in the context of startup based on the real voices of employees having actual employer experience. Furthermore, this research extends the understanding of employer attributes contributing to employer attractiveness by combining qualitative review data with quantitative rating data.
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Noel Nutsugah, Kobby Mensah, Raphael Odoom and Amin Ayarnah
Social networking sites have become breeding grounds for the spread of fake news and misinformation. At the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, the spread of fake news intensified…
Abstract
Purpose
Social networking sites have become breeding grounds for the spread of fake news and misinformation. At the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, the spread of fake news intensified, causing complications for health communicators by drowning authentic information from verifiable official sources. Looking at the impact of this growing phenomenon on people’s attitudes and behaviour during the pandemic, research in the area must be populated to help governments, supranational organisations, non-governmental organisations as well as civil society organisations to formulate policies to curb the menace. This study was therefore undertaken to unravel current gaps and future research avenues to empower academia in achieving the desired scholarly impact.
Design/methodology/approach
The study adopted the systematic review approach, relying on 56 peer-reviewed articles on social media, fake news and misinformation in the Covid-19 pandemic.
Findings
The study found that the use of social media during the height of the pandemic led to unhelpful information creation and sharing behaviours such that people’s self-awareness reduced drastically, thereby impeding the fight against the pandemic. The study also established that Entertainment motives, Ignorance and Altruism motives were the dominant factors that influenced the spread of fake news. There was evidence of the marginalization of research on the subject matter from contexts such as Africa, South America and Oceania.
Originality/value
This study has established existing gaps in issues and evidence, methodology, theory and context and consequently discussed future research avenues for social media use and the spread of fake news. The study has also provided practical implications for both governmental and non-governmental organisations in curbing the phenomenon of fake news and misinformation.
Peer review
The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/OIR-07-2022-0366.
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Muhammad Nurul Houqe, Michael Michael, Muhammad Jahangir Ali and Dewan Rahman
The purpose of this paper is to examine the association between company reputation and dividend policy.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the association between company reputation and dividend policy.
Design/methodology/approach
In this study, sample of 98,809 firm-year observations from 22 countries covering 2005–2016 were used.
Findings
Firm reputation concerns are associated with higher propensities to pay dividends and payout ratios. Further, this positive effect is more pronounced for firms with high free cash flows, high information asymmetry and low institutional monitoring. The results are robust to an instrumental variable approach, propensity score matching and the Heckman two-stage correction approach while addressing endogeneity concerns.
Practical implications
These findings have significant implications for various stakeholders, such as existing and potential investors, managers, policymakers and regulators, by providing insights into the relationship between corporate reputation and firm dividend payout decisions. Corporate reputation is highlighted as crucial for accessing finance, emphasizing the role of national regulators and policymakers in facilitating firms' efforts to improve their reputation. The study highlights the dynamics of corporate reputation and dividend payout, calling for proactive engagement from regulators and policymakers. Crafting policies conducive to reputation-building can enhance firms' financial prospects, indicating the need for strategic interventions at managerial, regulatory and policy levels. Understanding the influence of economic context is crucial for firms to tailor reputation management strategies and optimize funding opportunities in different economic environments.
Originality/value
Overall, results suggest that reputation serves as a disciplining mechanism, where firms will pay dividends to maintain their reputations.
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Hanna Lee, Md. Rafiqul Islam Rana and Yingjiao Xu
This study explores young consumers' motivations for purchasing Virtual Luxury Non-Fungible Token Wearables (VL-NFTs) from luxury brands, which are virtually crafted luxury…
Abstract
Purpose
This study explores young consumers' motivations for purchasing Virtual Luxury Non-Fungible Token Wearables (VL-NFTs) from luxury brands, which are virtually crafted luxury wearables minted as blockchain-based NFTs. Specifically, it investigates the relationships among consumers' perceived value of VL-NFTs, engagement with NFTs and purchase intention and the mediating effect of consumer engagement with NFTs.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected via an online survey of 504 young US consumers who had previously considered purchasing luxury fashion products and NFTs. Structural equation modelling was adopted for analysis.
Findings
Perceived economic, functional (uniqueness) and experiential (self-directed pleasure and affiliation) values of VL-NFTs directly influenced consumers' purchase intention. While symbolic value (self-presentation and conspicuousness) did not significantly influence purchase intention, it facilitated consumer engagement with NFTs. Moreover, consumer engagement mediated the relationship between economic and functional values and purchase intention.
Research limitations/implications
The sample was only comprised of young consumers, limiting the generalizability. Additionally, consumers may perceive VL-NFTs differently because of differences in past experiences and the varying VL-NFT types, necessitating further investigation on consumers' motivations across different types of VL-NFTs.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the existing literature by examining the importance of multifaceted perceived-value dimensions and engagement with NFTs in consumers' motivation for purchasing VL-NFTs through the lens of the customer value framework.
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Yicong Sun, Aimin Yan, Xinfang Hu and Zhimei Zang
This study draws on the trait activation theory to investigate the relationship between Machiavellianism and relational energy, considering the mediating role of facades of…
Abstract
Purpose
This study draws on the trait activation theory to investigate the relationship between Machiavellianism and relational energy, considering the mediating role of facades of conformity and the moderating role of leader–member exchange ambivalence.
Design/methodology/approach
We collected survey data from 275 employees in central China at three time points. We conducted confirmatory factor analysis and bootstrapping to test the hypotheses using Mplus7.0 and the PROCESS macro.
Findings
We found that facades of conformity mediated the relationship between Machiavellianism and relational energy. Moreover, the indirect effect of Machiavellianism on relational energy via facades of conformity was more significant when leader–member exchange ambivalence is higher.
Originality/value
This study provides empirical evidence of how and when Machiavellians acquire relational energy from leaders.
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Sharmila Devi R., Swamy Perumandla and Som Sekhar Bhattacharyya
The purpose of this study is to explore the complex interplay between technology, personal norms and emotional factors in shaping the sustainable housing choices of millennials in…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to explore the complex interplay between technology, personal norms and emotional factors in shaping the sustainable housing choices of millennials in emerging economies. It integrates the model of goal-directed behavior, technology acceptance model and norm activation model, incorporating both self-interest and prosocial motivations. Key adaptations involve replacing perceived behavioral control with financial self-efficacy and substituting hedonic motivation for anticipated positive emotions. Moreover, it introduces location as a practical anchor.
Design/methodology/approach
A quantitative, cross-sectional and descriptive research design was used in this study. Data were gathered from a sample of 610 millennial residential real estate investors across Indian smart cities. A multistage stratified sampling technique was used to ensure a representative sample. For data analysis, partial least squares structural equation modeling was used. The analysis focused on hypothesis testing to examine the relationships between the constructs of interest. Bootstrap t-values and effect sizes were used to assess the significance and magnitude of these relationships, respectively.
Findings
One of the key findings of this study was the establishment of significant positive relationships between awareness of consequences, ascription of responsibility and personal norms with behavioral intentions. This underscored the importance of personal ethical considerations in shaping intentions. Perceived usefulness and ease of use were found to significantly influence attitudes positively, highlighting the relevance of these factors in forming favorable attitudes toward behaviors. Attitude, subjective norms, financial self-efficacy and location played significant positive roles. However, negative anticipated emotions decreased desire. This illustrated the complex role emotions play in motivational processes. The study also revealed that subjective norms did not significantly contribute to shaping personal norms. This indicated a potential decoupling of societal expectations from personal ethical obligations in the decision-making process.
Practical implications
This study offers actionable insights for both policymakers and real estate developers. For policymakers, the findings highlight the need to craft initiatives that go beyond mere awareness, instead fostering a deep sense of personal responsibility and environmental stewardship among potential homebuyers. For real estate developers, the emphasis on financial self-efficacy and location suggests a strategy shift toward designing sustainable homes that not only meet environmental standards but also align with buyers’ financial confidence and geographic preferences. Together, these strategies can drive a more widespread adoption of sustainable housing, making sustainability a tangible and appealing choice for millennials.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this empirical research study was one of the first studies that contributed to the literature by integrating the model of goal-directed behavior, technology acceptance model and norm activation model. This study thus offered a nuanced understanding of the interplay between normative influences, usability perceptions, ethical considerations and emotions in the context of behavioral intentions.
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Harnesh Makhija, P.S. Raghukumari and Anuja Sethiya
This study explores the moderating effect of board gender diversity (BGD) between a firm's Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance and Economic value added (EVA…
Abstract
Purpose
This study explores the moderating effect of board gender diversity (BGD) between a firm's Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance and Economic value added (EVA) using NSE-listed 331 companies' data from 2015 to 2020, forming 1986 firm-year observations.
Design/methodology/approach
Our study is based on panel data; hence, we use a system GMM panel regression model to confirm whether the BGD moderates ESG and EVA. We also address the endogeneity issues.
Findings
Overall, our study reported a positive moderating effect of BGD between ESG and EVA. Similar results were observed across the chemical and financial services industries. However, in the case of the healthcare and consumer goods industries, we did not find support for the moderating effect.
Practical implications
The implications of our results are considerable and relevant for regulators, governing bodies, and corporate managers. It helps them understand how BGD plays a vital role in influencing the effect of ESG on a firm's EVA.
Originality/value
No existing research has explored the moderating effect of BGD between ESG and EVA, to the authors' best knowledge. Therefore, our study extends the existing literature and further supports resource dependency, agency, and stakeholder theories of corporate governance.
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Ekaterina Kozachenko, Galina Shirokova and Virginia Bodolica
Previous studies considered effectuation and causation as alternative decision-making strategies used by entrepreneurs to navigate uncertainty, having various individual- and…
Abstract
Purpose
Previous studies considered effectuation and causation as alternative decision-making strategies used by entrepreneurs to navigate uncertainty, having various individual- and firm-level antecedents. This study aims to broaden our understanding of individual-level antecedents by examining the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) temporal focus in decision-making processes in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Design/methodology/approach
Based on a multiple case study research design, the authors empirically analyse 16 Russian SMEs to uncover how the CEO temporal focus relates to the choice of effectuation/causation strategies under uncertainty.
Findings
CEOs with past orientation tend to adopt causation, future-oriented CEOs adhere to effectuation, while present-focused CEOs rely on both decision-making strategies (i.e. ambidexterity). Prior crisis-related experience is the underlying mechanism behind the relationship between CEO temporal orientation and effectuation/causation strategies. The authors formulate several propositions that may be tested in future studies in the field.
Originality/value
The contribution of this study consists in uncovering a new individual-level antecedent of effectuation/causation under uncertainty (i.e. CEO temporal focus) and suggesting that prior crisis experience acts as a mechanism underlying this relationship. The authors advance the strategic leadership theory by underscoring the CEO’s role in decision-making processes in SMEs.
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Muhammad Muzummil Sibtain, Muhammad Hashim, Fausto Pedro García Márquez, Sajjad Ahmad Baig and Muhammad Nazam
The adoption of energy-efficient systems is crucial for Pakistan to meet its growing energy demand and address its energy challenges. However, adoption of these systems in…
Abstract
Purpose
The adoption of energy-efficient systems is crucial for Pakistan to meet its growing energy demand and address its energy challenges. However, adoption of these systems in Pakistan is hindered by several barriers, including economic constraints, lack of awareness and social attitudes toward sustainable development. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore adoption of energy-efficient household systems and the associated social influence.
Design/methodology/approach
The study incorporates social influence as a mediating factor to examine the relationships between awareness of consequences, perceived consumer effectiveness and attitudes toward the adoption of energy-efficient systems. A quantitative survey method was used to collect data from households from Faisalabad, Pakistan. A total of 203 valid questionnaires were received and data analyzed through SmartPLS 4 for structural equation modeling.
Findings
The results revealed that awareness of consequences positively impacts compliance, social identification and internalization, while perceived consumer effectiveness has a positive relationship with social identification and internalization. Moreover, the positive association of social identification and internalization with attitude were supported but relationship of compliance with attitude was unsupported.
Practical implications
The results may also be used to develop compelling marketing campaigns focusing environmental conservation and social influence for positive attitude development.
Originality/value
The study contributes to theoretical literature by examining the empirical relationships between specific individual characteristics and societal pressure that play a critical role in shaping attitudes toward the acceptance of energy-efficient systems. Additionally, the study's findings offer actionable implications for policymakers and marketers, contributing to the development of targeted interventions for promoting sustainable consumption.
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This study aims to examine involvement and perceived usefulness (PU) as the drivers of loyalty for online booking websites, revealing findings of theoretical and practical…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine involvement and perceived usefulness (PU) as the drivers of loyalty for online booking websites, revealing findings of theoretical and practical relevance. The proposed conceptual model is drawn on elaboration likelihood model (ELM) along with the consideration of expectation confirmation model for loyalty development.
Design/methodology/approach
A two-stage structural equation modeling was applied to test the reliability and validity of the constructs and the strength of the hypothesized relationships.
Findings
Attitudinal loyalty (AL) is found to have a significant role, resulting in behavioral loyalty (BL) toward online booking. The results of this study supported the ELM framework, where involvement and PU resulted in BL through AL. PU and AL also served as mediating mechanisms underlying the impact of consumer involvement on BL.
Originality/value
This study applies the ELM to online ticketing mechanisms and nuances amid AL and BL with their drivers.
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