The role of relational orientation as measured by face and renqing in innovative behavior in China: An indigenous analysis

Following an indigenous approach, the relationship of the relational orientation of Chinese employees with their innovative behavior is evaluated in China with a cross-level design. Based on relevant research and theorizing, relational orientation is tapped by two core elements, face and renqing (compassion for others). As expected, relational orientation is positively related to fear of failure, but negatively related to innovative behavior. The positive relationship between relational orientation and fear of failure, and the negative relationship between fear of failure and innovative behavior, are weaker when innovative climate is high. Theoretical and applied implications of the findings are discussed.