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The Impact of Entrepreneurial Orientation on the Performance and Speed of Internationalization

Author

Listed:
  • Jörg Freiling

    (University of Bremen, LEMEX Chair in Small Business & Entrepreneurship)

  • Christoph Lütke Schelhowe

    (Research Affiliate at University of Bremen)

Abstract
Entrepreneurial orientation has emerged as a major construct in entrepreneurship literature. However, existing definitions of entrepreneurial orientation mainly focus on explorative behavior like innovativeness, proactiveness and risk-taking. Based on the long tradition of research on entrepreneurial functions, we argue that exploitative activities are no less an entrepreneurial endeavor than explorative activities. Following this understanding, we elaborate a broader conceptualization of the entrepreneurial orientation construct. In an empirical study with 346 established companies, we explore its effect on the performance of internationalization. Entrepreneurial orientation in its broader conceptualization positively influences the international performance and the effect is by far stronger than the one observed in existing studies. The reason for this is that both explorative and exploitative dimensions matter and equally drive the international performance. Entrepreneurial orientation positively influences the growth of the international activities as well. However, its effect is much lower. Whereas the explorative dimensions tend to foster the international growth, the exploitative dimensions do not show any effect.

Suggested Citation

  • Jörg Freiling & Christoph Lütke Schelhowe, 2014. "The Impact of Entrepreneurial Orientation on the Performance and Speed of Internationalization," Journal of Entrepreneurship, Management and Innovation, Fundacja Upowszechniająca Wiedzę i Naukę "Cognitione", vol. 10(4), pages 169-199.
    • Handle: RePEc:aae:journl:v:10:y:2014:i:4:p:169-199
    DOI: 10.7341/20141047
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    4. Tomasz Ingram & Katarzyna Bratnicka-Myśliwiec & Teresa Kraśnicka & Izabella Steinerowska-Streb, 2022. "Entrepreneurial Orientation as a Determinant of Sustainable Performance in Polish Family and Non-Family Organizations," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(24), pages 1-25, December.

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