Disentangling the role of perceived corporate social responsibility, social innovative behavior and social inclusion in enhancing social entrepreneurial performance

Purpose While numerous studies have explored different concepts of corporate social responsibility (CSR), there is a growing interest in understanding its specific effects on employee behavior and performance, particularly within the realm of social entrepreneurship (SE). Therefore, we examine the complex relationship between employees’ perceptions of CSR activities and their performance in SE within the computing industry. Additionally, we investigate the mediating role of social inclusion (SI) and social innovative behavior (SIB) in the interaction between perceived CSR (PCSR) and social entrepreneurial performance (SEP) as well as the moderating role of pro-social motivation (PSM) in the interactions between PCSR and SIB, PCSR and SEP and PCSR and SI. Design/methodology/approach Drawing on social identity theory, we developed and tested a theoretical model based on a sample of 304 employees from diverse backgrounds within the IT industry, employing partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Findings Results indicate that employees’ perceptions of CSR activities, directly and indirectly, impacts SEP through SIB and SI; beyond these mediations is the pronounced influence of PSM moderates the relationships between PCSR and SIB, PCSR and SEP as well as PCSR and SI. Specifically, the effects are stronger when employees possess high levels of PSM. Originality/value The findings of this study offer several novel contributions for policymakers, academics and researchers aimed at fostering employees’ perceptive, inclusive and innovative behaviors. Additionally, these contributions strengthen the mechanisms necessary for ensuring sustainability and enhancing employees’ SEP.