How entrepreneurial role models impact on entrepreneurial outcomes: A gender perspective

Abstract

This paper examines whether male and female students respond differently when exposed to predominantly masculine or feminine role models. Drawing on Social Cognitive Career Theory, we explore if the exposition of individuals to entrepreneurial role models can significantly influence their entrepreneurial outcomes in terms of entrepreneurial intentions (EI), entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) and entrepreneurial learning (EL). We collected data from 106 engineering students attending an entrepreneurial program in 2019/20 with an exposition to a prevalent male entrepreneurial role model, and from 88 engineering students attending the same program in 2022/23 where the exposition was a prevalent female entrepreneurial role model. A pre- and post-course survey was run in both years to measure differences in ESE, EI and EL. Results reveal a gender effect in EI, as female role models boost female students’ confidence and improve their intention to start entrepreneurial activities. EL increased independently by the gender. Finally, female role models impact the ESE of female students, while male role models impact both. This research extends intention-based analysis by incorporating gendered structural barriers, shedding light on their demonstrable influence on entrepreneurial outcomes.