Autonomy, locus of control, and entrepreneurial orientation of Lebanese expatriates worldwide

Abstract

Present day and on-going Lebanese emigration worldwide dates back several centuries. Yet it has intensified since the middle of the nineteenth century, mostly reinforcing Lebanese presence in North America, Central and South America, Europe, Africa, and Australia. The 21st century Lebanese presence worldwide is made up of highly educated and prominent entrepreneurs who have contributed with lasting impact in their adopted homelands and the world. This research directs attention to the exploration of success attributes for overseas Lebanese entrepreneurs. Data gathered was based on a survey of 264 Lebanese entrepreneurs operating worldwide. Statistical analysis was carried out using frequency distribution, Cronbach alpha, ANOVA, correlation and linear regression. Results show overseas Lebanese entrepreneurs have a high entrepreneurial orientation. In other words, they are perseverant, innovative, risk taking individuals who compete aggressively in the marketplace and are driven by a need for autonomy. Moreover, overseas Lebanese entrepreneurs are not found to be influenced by the cultural composition of their host countries in terms of uncertainty avoidance and individualism.