Group social capital in virtual teaming contexts: A moderating role of positive affective tone in knowledge sharing

Abstract

This study examines the interplay of social capital and positive affective tone in virtual group working contexts. This study integrates social capital theory with positive affective tone to postulate an integrated model that captures the main effects of social capital and the moderating effects of positive affective tone in the formation of knowledge sharing. Our empirical analysis confirms the duality between social and affective considerations in influencing knowledge sharing, as well as demonstrates a complex pattern of interdependencies between these two effects. The empirical tests show that knowledge sharing is positively influenced by positive affective tone, trust, and shared vision. Meanwhile, the effects of trust and social interaction on knowledge sharing are moderated by positive affective tone. Last, theoretical and managerial implications of our findings are discussed. (C) 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.