Does Trust-Based Learning As A Mediation Concept Have Fostering Virtual Leadership Roles On Creative Performance? A Perspective Of Organizational Learning Theory

This study aims to build a novelty model that can bridge the research gap between virtualleadership (VL) and creative performance (CP). In today’s digital era, virtual leadership style which is acrystallization of transformational leadership and e-technology in the context of infrastructure becomes astrategic method in fostering creativity. This study offers Trust-based Learning (TBL) as a novelty thatencourages the significant influence of the role of VL in CP. TBL is a concept synthesized from organizationallearning (OL) theory and relational trust. TBL is a concept of collective learning that emphasizes on theinduction of knowledge, knowledge value, cohesiveness of relationships in teamwork through trust bonds.Samples are obtained through the distribution of questionnaires with non-self-assessment methods to 169SMEs at the organizational level, the character of SMEs is relevant where the demands of design innovationthat must always be renewed in the emerging markets are crucial. The analytical tool used is StructuralEquation Modelling (SEM) with the results of the equation CP=0.548VL + 0.542TBL. Empirical researchresults show that TBL has succeeded in becoming a full-mediator between VL (P <0.001, β=0.85) and CP(P<0.05, β=0.47) and enriches new concepts in the body of knowledge in the OL theory zone.