Title: Performance implications of entrepreneurial stylistic fit: evidence from Australia

Authors: Arash Najmaei

Addresses: Macquarie Graduate School of Management, 99 Talavera Road, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW 2113, Australia

Abstract: Cognitive fit theory suggests that individuals' goal achievement is enhanced when their cognitive style fits the information processing requirements of their task environment. We report novel empirical evidence in favour of this claim from the context of Australian small manufacturing firms. In general, our findings shed new light on the micro-foundation of firm performance and advance understanding of the cognitive mechanisms involved in the behaviour of strategic leaders. Drawing on these results, several theoretical and managerial implications will be presented which contribute to the theory and practice of entrepreneurial performance. We also illustrate few directions for future research.

Keywords: executive cognitive styles; cognitive fit; sales growth; perceived dynamism; firm performance; strategic leadership; micro-foundation; Australia; small firms; manufacturing industry; strategic leaders; executives; entrepreneurial performance; entrepreneurship.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBCG.2014.060315

International Journal of Business Competition and Growth, 2014 Vol.3 No.3, pp.225 - 240

Received: 23 Oct 2013
Accepted: 16 Nov 2013
Published online: 31 May 2014 *

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