Entrepreneurial orientation and performance – are sexes equal?

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the different perceptions of entrepreneurial orientation (EO) of females compared to those of their male counterparts. EO and its links to performance are examined at the level of both the individual and the firm.

Design/methodology/approach Multiple linear regression analyses of a data set with 301 employees in different industries reveal significant differences between genders.

Findings EO has a positive impact on performance at both individual and firm levels of analysis. Females tend to perceive their individual EO as lower than males, but their self-evaluated work performance is higher than that of males. The firm’s EO is also perceived differently by men and by women, but the perceptions of firm’s performance are similar.

Research limitations/implications The results draw attention to the differences between individuals when they evaluate firm-level constructs like EO. While the sample is based on a small number of firms, the findings suggest that EO is neither pervasive throughout the firm nor gender-neutral.

Practical implications The different gender-related perceptions should be kept in mind when promoting entrepreneurially oriented behaviour within organizations. A strong focus on EO in entrepreneurship policy or education may discourage women.

Originality/value So far, multi-level organizational interrelationships have been substantially neglected with respect to the gender dimension.