The Mediating Role of Absorptive Capacity of Knowledge in the relationship between Entrepreneurial Alertness for Employees and Entrepreneurial Decision Making: An Exploratory Study of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs)

Dr. Wameedh A. Khdair
Department of Business Administration, College of Administration and Economics, Almaaqal University, Basra, Iraq..

Abstract:

This study investigates the significance of entrepreneurial vigilance (scanning and research, link and connection, evaluation and judgment) in entrepreneurial decision-making (decentralization, external participation, inclusiveness, and use of existing information). A questionnaire was distributed to a random sample of (206) employees of small and medium-sized businesses to collect the data. On a Likert scale ranging from 0 to 5, the study sample was requested to respond to its questions. A hypothetical model reflecting the characteristics of the primary and secondary study variables was developed. In the context of rapidly changing business settings and intense competition brought about by economic globalization, companies are witnessing the emergence of modernized conceptions and practices. On this premise, the principles of reaction, speed, adaptability, and interactivity have become crucial to the firm's business success. There was consensus in the study on the importance of knowledge absorption as the link between entrepreneurial vigilance and the nerve that drives decision-making. These insights may be useful for future studies. Additionally, the research assists HR decision-makers and employees of small and medium-sized businesses in improving their performance and gaining a competitive advantage. The empirical findings of this study may serve to fill a gap in the existing literature. In addition to its theoretical importance, this study has tremendously essential consequences for small and medium-sized firms (SMEs). It highlights knowledge absorption capacity, entrepreneurial attentiveness, and entrepreneurial decision-making.