Employee social media usage, workplace social capital and employee-driven innovation: finding the missing pieces of the puzzle

This paper presents a conceptual framework that explores the complex interplay between social media, social capital, and employee-driven innovation in the modern workplace. Through an in-depth critical analysis review by using propositions, the study aims to provide a deeper theoretical understanding of these relationships and their practical implications. Specifically, it highlights the role of social media usage for social and work-related purposes in shaping workplace bonding and bridging ties. These ties foster cooperation, trust, collaboration, knowledge exchange, and access to expertise and resources, ultimately supporting employee-driven innovation and enhancing employee task creativity and decision-making. This study contributes to the literature by providing a comprehensive theoretical understanding of these relationships and their implications for organisational vitality and employee competitiveness.