The mediating role of networking orientation between entrepreneurial personality characteristics and entrepreneurial intentions
Ayaz Ali Maitlo
Shah Abdul Latif University, Pakistan
ayazalimaitlo@gmail.com
Salman Bashir Memon
Shah Abdul Latif University, Pakistan
salman.memon@salu.edu.pk
Mahendar Kumar
Greenwich University, Pakistan
mahendarbajaj101@gmail.com
Abstract
The literature suggests that there is an existence of networking orientation relationship with respect to personality characteristics and entrepreneurial intentions, and that has been tested in different settings. But, this paper has examined the mediating relationship of networking orientation with respect to personality characteristics that lead towards entrepreneurial intentions in the context of Sindh Province, Pakistan. Hence, the six personality characteristics are taken as independent variables with respect to entrepreneurial intentions mediated by networking orientation. It is found that locus of control, propensity to take risk, need for achievement and innovativeness has shown positive and significant relationship but self-confidence and tolerance to ambiguity has shown significant but negative relationship. The data collected from 250 shopkeepers, those having maximum five employees belonging to three cities Khairpur Mir’s, Sukkur and Shikarpur Sindh. The researcher then tested hypothesized theoretical model by employing Structural Equation Model (SEM). Ultimately, it implies through this study that entrepreneurs have to focus on networking orientation because this can contribute positively in enhancing entrepreneurial intentions as predicted by personality characteristics of entrepreneurs.
Keywords: entrepreneurial personality characteristics; entrepreneurial intentions; networking orientation; small scale business; structural equation model