Entrepreneurial Characteristics That Influence Success among Second Hand Motor Vehicle Dealers in Kenya: A Case Study of Ngong Road Area

Abstract

The contribution of second hand motor vehicle industry to the economic growth of the country is high in terms of gross domestic product and to self-employment. There is need to equip entrepreneurs with the most effective characteristic they can apply to influence success in motor vehicle dealership. This study therefore seeks to explore the characteristics that influence entrepreneurial success among second hand motor vehicle dealers; a case study of the Ngong road area. The research is informed by the trait model of entrepreneurial characteristics and adopts key trait as Need for achievement. The specific objective is to establish whether need for achievement is an ingredient of success among car dealers in Nairobi and to measure their level of entrepreneurial success. Descriptive research design was used for this study as it was most appropriate in meeting the needs of the researcher. The target population for this study was the showrooms of all second hand motor vehicle dealers in Ngong road Nairobi. The instrument used was a Questionnaire as well as an observation guide. The researcher found out that, even though second hand motor vehicle dealers find themselves operating in tough environment both internal and external, they do everything possible to get the odds in their favor, and they often avoid taking unnecessary risks. Successful car dealers also believe in themselves.