Exploring Gendered Perspectives on Personality Traits and Entrepreneurial Performance in Lebanon during the COVID-19 Crisis

Abstract

We investigate the impact of gendered personality traits on the entrepreneurial performance of male and female entrepreneurs in Lebanon during the COVID-19 crisis. Using the Big Five personality model and survey data from 500 entrepreneurs, the research examines how traits such as agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism, extraversion, and openness to experience influence business outcomes in high-pressure environments. The findings reveal that agreeableness and neuroticism benefit female entrepreneurs more than males during crises, while conscientiousness significantly deteriorates the financial performance of female entrepreneurs. Extraversion and openness exhibit no differential effects on financial performance by gender. By examining the interplay between gendered personality traits and entrepreneurial performance within the unique context of Lebanon during the COVID-19 pandemic, this study contributes novel insights to the literature. It challenges traditional views on gendered advantages in entrepreneurship, particularly by highlighting the underexplored positive implications of neuroticism and the nuanced role of agreeableness. These findings provide actionable insights for policymakers and support organisations. Specifically, fostering relational skills such as agreeableness and leveraging neuroticism’s sensitivity for proactive crisis management can enhance entrepreneurial resilience. Additionally, training programmes aimed at addressing the rigidity associated with conscientiousness can help entrepreneurs adapt more effectively to volatile environments. By tailoring interventions to gender-specific personality dynamics, these insights can strengthen entrepreneurial ecosystems and improve resilience in times of uncertainty.