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Small Firms in a Small Country: Managerial Factors, Internationalization and Performance of Slovenian SMEs

Author

Listed:
  • Mariola Ciszewska-Mlinaric

    (Kozminski University, Poland)

  • Franjo Mlinaric

    (University of Maribor, Slovenia)

Abstract

International activities of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) constitute an important research area. To understand this phenomenon, researchers employ different theoretical perspectives. Among them, the resource-based theory has been given much attention. In this study three managerial factors: managerial attitude toward internationalization, internationalization knowledge and international experience, are seen as examples of the firm’s intangible assets. The objectives of this study are twofold. First, it aims to examine the significance of the mentioned managerial resources for smes’ internationalization. Second, it verifies the relationship between the level of the firm’s internationalization and performance. The study is based on a sample of highly-internationalized Slovenian companies. According to the findings, managerial attitudes towards internationalization and internationalization knowledge are significantly related to the level of SME internationalization. The statistical analysis also provides support for the relationship between the level of the firm’s internationalization and performance.

Suggested Citation

  • Mariola Ciszewska-Mlinaric & Franjo Mlinaric, 2010. "Small Firms in a Small Country: Managerial Factors, Internationalization and Performance of Slovenian SMEs," Managing Global Transitions, University of Primorska, Faculty of Management Koper, vol. 8(3), pages 239-259.
    • Handle: RePEc:mgt:youmgt:v:8:y:2010:i:3:p:239-259
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    3. Riahi-Belkaoui, Ahmed, 1998. "The effects of the degree of internationalization on firm performance," International Business Review, Elsevier, vol. 7(3), pages 315-321, June.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    internationalization; managerial factors; performance; SMEs;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • M16 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - International Business Administration
    • F23 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - Multinational Firms; International Business

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