Individual entrepreneurial orientation, self-efficacy, and managerial skills for project performance: an integrated structural approach and analysis

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to investigate the effects of individual entrepreneurial orientation (IEO), entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) and entrepreneurial managerial skills (EMS) on project performance at both the individual and team levels using a holistic framework. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 308 university students involved in two different types of projects (entrepreneurship and nonentrepreneurship) in Qatar. Findings The confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling showed that both IEO and EMS positively and almost equally influenced project performance. However, ESE’s impact on project performance was significantly mediated by both IEO and EMS and, in practice, it should be considered a motivational factor for increasing the impact of IEO and EMS on project performance. Practical implications Project managers should recognize the value of the management and leadership skills examined in this study and their implications for project outcomes. Originality/value This study provides novel insights into the role these factors play in effective project management, thus allowing organizations to make effective decisions to reinforce these factors and gain a competitive advantage.