Exploring the buffer effect of intrinsic interest on the relationship between idea implementation and negative workplace gossip

Purpose Although idea implementation is a praised useful resource, the psychological and behavioral costs that employees may pay for idea implementation are rarely discussed. This study aims to examine the buffer effect of intrinsic interest on dark side of idea implementation. Design/methodology/approach Based on the conservation of resources theory, this study tested hypotheses with a multi-wave survey study of four information technology companies in China. Findings First, idea implementation increased emotional exhaustion. Second, emotional exhaustion mediated the relationship between employee idea implementation and negative workplace gossip about a leader. Third, intrinsic interest negatively moderated the relationship between idea implementation and emotional exhaustion. Fourth, idea implementation increased workplace negative gossip about a leader as a result of increased emotional exhaustion when intrinsic interest was low. Originality/value These findings are conducive to further understanding of the psychological mechanism and boundary condition of the negative impact of idea implementation. It provides practical guidance for buffering the dark side of idea implementation and effectively controlling the workplace negative gossip in the workplace.