Filling structural holes? Guanxi-based facilitation of knowledge sharing within a destination network

Purpose: This study examines the relationships between structural holes, guanxi and knowledge sharing among groups of stakeholders within a Chinese destination network. Design/methodology/approach: This study conducted surveys, social network analysis and semi-structured interviews to gather data from the stakeholders of a popular Chinese tourist destination to test its hypotheses. Findings: Knowledge sharing within the destination network was impeded by structural holes but facilitated by guanxi. Furthermore, the impeding effect of structural holes on knowledge sharing is alleviated by guanxi. Originality/value: This study illustrates the ways that stakeholders exploit structural holes and guanxi to promote knowledge sharing, and thus offers novel insights into how destination network structures affect the efficacy of stakeholders when it comes to sharing knowledge and promoting their destination.