The relationship between perceived organisational purpose and innovative work behaviour: The role of person–organisational fit and autonomous motivation

Abstract

In light of advancements in information technology, the competitive landscape for organisations has intensified, necessitating the cultivation of individual work behaviour to maintain sustainable competitive advantages. This imperative is particularly pronounced in resource-constrained regions like Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite extant research, scholars and practitioners grapple with effectively fostering this voluntary and intricate behaviour within organisations. Drawing upon self-determination theory in conjunction with person-organisation fit theory, this research delved into the emerging field of organisational purpose, examining the relationship between perceived organisational purpose and innovative work behaviour. The mediating roles of person-organisation fit and autonomous motivation in this relationship were also explored. A cross-sectional quantitative study involving 375 professionals and managers across various industries in predominantly Namibian and South African contexts was conducted. Structural equation modelling using IBM SPSS Amos 28 confirmed all hypotheses, indicating a significant and positive relationship between perceived organisational purpose and innovative work behaviour, mediated sequentially by person-organisation fit and autonomous motivation. The study offers theoretical insights into the motivational potency of a well-perceived organisational purpose in fostering congruent organisational values and satisfying basic psychological needs, conducive to autonomous motivation and, ultimately, innovative work behaviour. Furthermore, it provides practical implications for management seeking to cultivate workplace innovation by enhancing organisational purpose perceptions through the establishment of an authentic, contributory, guiding, and inspirational organisational purpose that transcends mere profit maximisation goals.