Date of Award

Summer 7-2024

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

First Advisor

Dr. Richard Baskerville

Abstract

Entrepreneurial ventures face a high risk of failure, driven by challenges and uncertainties inherent in the startup landscape. This two-paper dissertation investigates the critical influence of personality traits and team composition on entrepreneurial success, grounded in trait theory and team dynamics theories. Focusing on the traits of Agreeableness, Openness, and Conscientiousness, the research employs a qualitative methodology, analyzing semi-structured interviews with co-founders across five diverse startups. Results highlight the importance of strategic team composition and the harmonious integration of individual traits within teams as key determinants of success. Introducing the Entrepreneurial Trait and Capabilities (ETC) Framework and the Entrepreneurial Success Matrix (ESM), this research contributes novel insights into startup dynamics and provides actionable frameworks for improving team interactions. These findings underscore the interplay between personality traits and entrepreneurial outcomes and stress the significance of carefully curated team attributes. By offering both theoretical advancements and practical guidance, this study enriches the entrepreneurial literature and aids practitioners in navigating the complexities of team formation and leadership. It aims to equip entrepreneurs with the tools necessary for assembling dynamic, resilient teams capable of overcoming the startup ecosystem's challenges, ultimately fostering a deeper understanding of the pathways to entrepreneurial success.

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