Abstract:
This study investigates the impact of employee engagement (EE) on innovative work
behavior (IWB) withinthe garment industry inVavuniyaDistrict, Sri Lanka, addressing
a notable gap in local literature. Grounded in established theories, the research
conceptually links EE dimensions----career growth, recognition, and job involvementto
IWB. A quantitative methodology was adopted, surveying a simple random sample
of 336 garment industry employees. Data analysis, utilizing SPSS 23, included
correlation and regression techniques, preceded by a pilot study to ensure instrument
reliabilify. Findings revealed high levels of career growth, recognition, job
involvement, employee engagement, and innovative work behavior. Crucially, strong
positive relationships were observed between EE dimensions and IWB. Regression
analysis further confirmed that employee engagement, along with its dimensions,
significantly and positively influences innovative work behavioq supporting all
hypotheses. These results highlight the critical role of fostering employee engagement
to enhance innovation within Sri Lanka's garment sector. The study offers both
theoretical contributions to the understanding of EE-IWB dynamics in this unique
context and practical recommendations for managers and policymakers. While
acknowledging limitations like its cross-sectional design and regional focus, this
research provides a valuable foundation for future, broader investigations.
Keywords: Employee Engagement, Innovative Work Behavior, Garment Industry,
Vavaniya District, Sri Lanka.
