Challenging Job Demands and Performance: The Role of Learning Orientation

Abstract

Drawing on the job demand-control and job demand-resource models, this study examines the curvilinear relation between challenge job demand and performance outcomes (task and creative performance) as well as the moderating effect of employee learning orientation on such relationships. Data were obtained from 216 employees and 47 supervisors of service firms in China. Results showed that employee learning orientation moderates the inverted U-shaped relation between challenge job demand and task performance and creativity, such that the curvilinear effect is stronger for employees with high learning orientation, but no effect was observed with low learning orientation. Theoretical and practical implications are provided.