The Diffusion of Creative Ideas: A Dark Side Perspective of Trustworthiness Perception

Abstract

In this age of constant change, many organizations are encompassed by high levels of global financial uncertainties. It is usually under these uncertainties that trustworthiness perceptions become a grave issue. Particularly, during times of scarcity of financial resources and financial instability, when it is almost least likely to make guarantees about the future; the will to trust and share creative ideas is most needed for ethically and effectively navigating through a future of global financial uncertainty. To trust and share creative ideas have always been a risky proposition. Employee’s high trustworthiness perception of managers can expose them to risks of probable deception and betrayal. Managers and employees may become manipulative and abuse trust relationships. These trustworthiness issues are yet systematically unaddressed. This study, therefore, examines a dark side perspective of trustworthiness perception and its effect on the diffusion of creative ideas. A snowball non-probability sampling technique is employed to identify 10 participants who engaged in an in-depth semi-structured interview. This study found out that manager’s ability to facilitate the diffusion of creative ideas is contingent upon manager’s supportive nature and capabilities, innovative evidence and reputation, ability to apply creative efforts, eradicate fear and empower employees to engage in the processes required to ensure effective diffusion of creative ideas. This study found out that fulfillment of promises made and flexible control has a significant impact on integrity. This study, therefore, contributes significantly to the growing body of creativity and trustworthiness literature.

Keywords: Creativity, Creative Ideas, Trust, Trustworthiness Perception