A cross-cultural insight into the competency-mix of SME entrepreneurs in Australia and Malaysia

Abstract

This paper attempts to unearth the competency-mix required by entrepreneurs in Australia and Malaysia in order to sustain their ventures. Based on this premise, the present study aims to identify, validate, and compare the competencies perceived to be important by SME entrepreneurs operating in both countries. This involved determining the psychometric rigor of the model and establishing the psychometric properties of the model of entrepreneurial competency using a sample of 391 SME entrepreneurs. Interestingly, it was found that some competencies are context-free while others are culture-specific. The identification of competencies that are highly prevalent in Australia and Malaysia would assist in the development of an assessment index that could be use in training and development programs for practicing as well as prospective SME entrepreneurs.