Identifying The Traits Of Entrepreneurs In A University Setting: An Empirical Examination Of Saudi Arabian University Students

Abstract

The study of entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship has recently attracted the attention of scholars from diverse fields such as sociology, anthropology, and business. Much of the research conducted has been focused on entrepreneurial motivation and personal characteristics in developed countries. In this paper, we examine the relationship between four personality characteristics - Innovativeness, risk-taking, locus of control and energy level, and the likelihood of owning or starting a business.Utilizing a sample of 600 students attending three universities in Saudi Arabia and a self-administered questionnaire, the present studys results show systematic variation in entrepreneurial characteristics across groups of university student entrepreneurs and non-entrepreneurs. Student entrepreneurs are more likely to be innovative, risk-takers, and exhibit high levels of energy and locus of control than their non-entrepreneurs counterparts.The results of the study raise important questions about the identification and targeting of potentially successful entrepreneurs and the appropriate mechanism for aiding them in realizing their dreams to become successful business owners capable of creating new jobs and fueling economic growth.