Intersecting Cultures: The Influence of Organizational and Societal Cultural Tightness On Employee Creativity

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Keywords: societal and organizational culture, cultural tightness, employee creativity

Abstract: The present study explores the dynamics between organizational and societal culture. Employing the concept of cultural tightness, which refers to the strength of norms within a group and the extent of sanctions for deviating from these norms, this research examines the impact of both organizational and societal cultural tightness on employee creativity. We propose that organizational cultural tightness diminishes dialectical thinking among employees, which subsequently exerts a detrimental impact on employee creativity. Furthermore, we posit that societal and organizational cultural tightness negatively and interactively impact employee dialectical thinking. Empirical validation of these predictions was obtained through a comprehensive field study, encompassing around 2,300 participants from 31 different provinces in China, conducted using the wjx platform (www.wjx.cn). We discuss the theoretical implications of studying the interplay of cultural tightness at various levels, as well as the practical implications for employees and organizations.