The purpose of this study is to identify innovative work behaviors (IWB) among SME employees that enable them to function despite a recent crisis. Using qualitative research techniques, 22 SME employees from manufacturing and service/wholesale/retail sectors, encompassing 5 areas of Thailand, were interviewed. The results showed that behaviors at work that help businesses survive and grow in crises are divided into five main themes and 52 sub-themes, namely: 1. Seeking opportunities that arise in crises; 2. Generating ideas to cope with crises; 3. Championing ideas into practice; 4. Applying ideas that will be used; and 5. Learning and renewing innovative work behaviors. Positive psychology capital (PsyCap) is a crucial component that aids individuals in growing intellectually and overcoming setbacks. The PsyCap for coping with adversity consists of 1) self-efficacy, including understanding oneself, managing one's work, being aware of oneself, and being aware of one's sources of support; 2) Optimism, including having a positive outlook on problems and looking at problems as temporary things that will pass. 3) Hope, including having goals and being persistent, planning, and adapting to do new things; 4) Resilience, including being patient in the face of obstacles and having the ability to empower oneself. The findings may be utilized to create a learning program for fostering IWB and enhancing the PsyCap of staff in SMEs so that people can produce innovation at work and are prepared to handle unexpected scenarios in the future.

Authors:
Chaiyut Kleebbua, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand
Amaraporn Surakarn, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand

About the Presenter(s)
Dr chaiyut kleebbua is a University Assistant Professor/Lecturer at Srinakharinwirot University in Thailand

See this presentation on the full schedule – Friday Schedule

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