A systematic literature review on SME internationalization: a personality lens

Abstract

The importance of the individual decision-maker within the internationalization process of SMEs has extensively been acknowledged in the International Entrepreneurship field. Yet, despite this, the current discourse is mainly limited to sociodemographics, and social and human capital, and does not seem to advance towards the influence and role of, e.g., deeper-level personality aspects on the SME's internationalization process. Findings are scattered across different fields of research and disciplines, making it difficult to build upon existing knowledge. To address this, we execute a Systematic Literature Review focusing on internationalization, SMEs, and personality, with specific attention for deeper-level personality aspects. Our findings reveal a rather young body of literature which uses a behavioral perspective, and can be subdivided into three overarching research themes: Internationalization Behaviors, Internationalization Initiation, and Internationalization Performance. Our thematic analysis and cross-thematic discussion provide a fertile ground for further studies on the entrepreneur's deeper-level personality aspects in relation to SME internationalization. In the future research section, we recommend the exploration of alternative behavioral theories, and multi-level and holistic approaches to further explore this promising sub-domain.

Demystifying the Impact of Export Promotion Programme on Export Performance of SMEs: A SEM Approach

“…The export success of businesses is correlated with their participation in these aid programmes. SMEs businesses can improve their EP by using EPPs to gain access to and hone the necessary resources and expertise (Arafat et al, 2022; Catanzaro & Teyssier, 2021; Comi & Resmini, 2020; Gerschewski et al, 2020; Muhos et al, 2022; Munteanu et al, 2022). The results of this investigation may have far-reaching implications for many fields of study.…”

“…Extensive research is available on government EPP and other factors influencing export success. On the one hand, numerous studies conducted over the years have shown that EPPs are beneficial for exporting businesses (Catanzaro & Teyssier, 2021; Comi & Resmini, 2020; Francis & Collins-Dodd, 2004; Freixanet, 2022; Gencturk & Kotabe, 2001; Giles & Williams, 2000; Gillespie & Riddle, 2004; Katsikeas et al,1996; Munteanu et al, 2022; Singh & Gautam, 2022; Takyi et al, 2022; Malca et al, 2020; Mota et al, 2021; Munch & Schaur, 2018). Alternatively, there is a wealth of conceptual and empirical research on the factors that affect firm export in the international marketing literature (Cadogan et al, 2002, 2005; Leonidou et al, 2007; Morgan et al, 2004; Muho et al, 2022; Racela et al, 2007).…”

“…Exporting is a growth strategy that companies employ on their way to internationalisation (Freixanet, 2022; Morais & Ferreira, 2020; Mota et al, 2021; Munch & Schaur, 2018; Paul, 2020; Takyi et al, 2022), doing so improves their skills, knowledge, and expertise (Comi & Resmini, 2020; Kahiya & Delaney, 2022; Kotabe & Czinkota, 1992; Munteanu et al, 2022; Nelaeva & Nilssen, 2022; Seringhaus & Botschen, 1991; Singh & Gautam, 2022), and it boosts the country’s economic output (Arif et al, 2022; Chitauro, 2021; Giles & Williams, 2000; Mota et al, 2021; Priyankara, 2018). Both internal and external factors may influence a company’s decision to export (Bilkey, 1978; Mota et al, 2021; Seringhaus & Rosson, 1994).…”