Impact of innovativeness, risk-taking, and proactiveness on export performance in a developing country: evidence of qualitative study

Authors

  • University of Malaya
  • University of Malaya
  • University of Malaya
  • University of Malaya
  • Academy for Research Skills Development
  • International University of Business Agriculture and Technology
  • Institute of Malaysian and International Studies, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1108/RAUSP-01-2021-0002

Keywords:

Exportperformance, Innovativeness, Proactiveness, Risk-taking, Qualitative research, Bangladesh

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explain the effect of entrepreneurial orientation (EO) dimensions on firms’ export performance. The study has considered three dimensions of EO: innovativeness, proactiveness and risk-taking. Export performance has been measured through multifaceted determinants: financial, strategic and satisfaction levels of exporting firms.

Design/methodology/approach

To explain the association between such determinants, qualitative face-to-face, in-depth interviews were conducted with the respondents from the apparel manufacturing companies of Bangladesh. The study has also applied a content analysis technique to explore and triangulate the descriptions of EO dimensions on performance.

Findings

The research results reveal that EO has a meaningful explanation of export performance from the lived experience of the respondents. The study has also found frequent explanations and indicators about the association of innovativeness and proactiveness on export performance, but the risk-taking dimension has revealed no effects.

Research limitations/implications

The research has different implications on theoretical, managerial and policy-making aspects of EO and export performance. Nevertheless, the findings are based on the opinions of a small sample of entrepreneurs and high-level managers. Thus, it is important to test the generalizability of these findings in future research using a larger sample.

Originality/value

This study indicated product, process and market creation innovativeness. Risks related to product innovation, new market entry and politics are considered for risk-taking measures, while proactive innovation, technology and new market searching are used for measuring proactiveness. Additionally, multifaceted performance determinants have been applied to evaluate export performance. Hence, this study is a unique qualitative analysis with important theoretical, practical and methodological implications.

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Published

2022-07-18

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