... the underlying mechanism in the relationship between observed illegitimate tasks and observers’ helping behaviour. Design/methodology/approach This research tested the model using a sample of 218 employees in China through a two-wave field study. A path analysis was conducted with the bootstrapping procedure...

..., and the importance of further developing and motivating these individuals by cultivating meaningful interactions and nurturing trustful relationships at work. Then, proactive employees would be more likely to engage in helping behavior and to stay with the company. Originality/value The paper takes the social...