Effect of open-mindedness and humble behavior on innovation: mediator role of learning

Purpose This study examines the effect of open-mindedness (OM) and humble behavior on innovation through the mediator role of learning. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative design was adopted to collect data through a questionnaire-based survey distributed to 400 employees at international oil companies operating in Iraq. Findings The results indicate a direct positive of learning on innovation. Hence, there is a natural and partial indirect effect of humble behavior on innovation and a full indirect impact of OM on innovation through learning. Research limitations/implications The theoretical and practical implication of this study indicates that individual learning on innovation is vital when the workplace environment has a diversity of cultural backgrounds. Moreover, the implications of this study may contribute to determining the weakness of invention in such industries because of the effect of personal characteristics (i.e. OM and humble) on readiness to learn. Originality/value In a culturally diverse work environment, the behavior of humble and OM will have a significant impact on the intensity of individual learning, which would increase innovation in the context of the oil industry. Therefore, the essence of originality in this study is to lead the managers to pay attention to the psychological aspects of the workplace environment that require learning and innovation.