Intraprenuerial orientation, social networks and firm performance.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between intrapreneurial orientation, social networks and firm performance. The study was guided by the following research objectives; to examine the components of intrapreneurial orientation, to examine the components of social networks, to establish the relationship between intrapreneurial orientation and firm performance, to establish the relationship between social networks and intrapreneurial orientation, to establish the relationship between social networks and firm performance, and to examine the predictor effect of the components on firm performance

A cross sectional research design was adopted which involved descriptive, correlation and regression approaches. A sample of 117 firms was selected from the two subsectors of bakery manufacturing and beverage manufacturing in the four divisions of Kampala district. The respondents were purposively selected from each stratum. Findings revealed that there was a significant positive relationship between all the study variables of intrapreneurial orientation, social networks and firm performance. Results from the regression analysis showed that intrapreneurial orientation and social networks significantly predicted 39% of firm performance.

It was recommended that owner managers need to put in place policies and programs to support intrapreneurs. This should begin with a diagnosis of their personal characteristics and motives aimed at strengthening proactiveness and innovation that builds a base for more improved firm performance. Also small firms should focus on creating a user friendly environment that enables employees to voice out their endeavors and discoveries