Developing the Prosocial Entrepreneur

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Table of contents

(17 chapters)
Abstract

This chapter discusses the growing expectation that businesses will address some of society's challenges and how there's an increasing interest among business owners in becoming ethical and sustainable. It introduces the central question posed in the PhD research upon which the online training intervention for business owners is based: How can an intervention be developed that leads to increased levels of prosocial behaviour in entrepreneurs? This chapter goes onto explore the need to develop a greater understanding and awareness of entrepreneurs as individuals and how they can be encouraged and supported to act in ways that benefit themselves, their business, society and the planet. The journey from the initial research question to creating relevant, fit-for-purpose learning materials that will change the way people do business is outlined in this chapter, as are the current gaps between learning and practice in entrepreneur education and how the online training intervention detailed in this book will fill those gaps.

Abstract

This chapter examines how entrepreneurs are addressing some of society's greatest challenges by taking over some of the functions of government and charities. It's driving change, but is it the kind of change we want to see? The chapter examines the growing body of literature on entrepreneurship which looks at this question and focuses on some key areas. These areas, including entrepreneur values and motivation, prosocial behaviour, entrepreneurial education and more form the concepts that underpin both the research and the online training intervention I've developed. The chapter highlights one of the most important findings from a review of the existing literature; that the world needs people with prosocial values and motivations, and entrepreneurs as a group could make a significant contribution to society. In the chapter, there's also a discussion about what needs to happen to enable them to make that contribution and an examination of what the existing research says.

Abstract

This chapter looks at viability as the ‘first rung’ of the ladder for entrepreneurs who want to flourish and build a sustainable business. Viability is defined as having a reasonable chance of being able to grow, develop and be successful, and this chapter looks at how this requires stability, being able to manage risk and managing personal health and well-being. This chapter looks at practical strategies to achieve this, including dealing with the pressures and challenges of running a business, how to build stability and resilience, managing business and personal risk, achieving a healthy work–life balance and reducing the risk of burnout.

Abstract

This chapter looks at what is meant by relationships, thinking specifically about business owners. It defines relationships as the association and connection they have with other people as well the way they and other people influence each other's thoughts, feelings and actions. It goes on to look at what is needed to connect successfully with others, particularly the need for social intelligence. This chapter looks at how to develop social intelligence and how to communicate and interact mindfully to have better relationships.

Abstract

This chapter explores what it means to perform well as an entrepreneur. It discusses what a successful business might look like, the competencies needed to run a business and defines what is meant by productivity and quality. It also explores the steps entrepreneurs should take to ensure they achieve optimum productivity and quality for best results.

Abstract

This chapter introduces the seven stages of business growth and development and looks at business transformation and how to develop a transformation strategy. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is also discussed and is broken down into four main types of responsibility: ethical/human rights social responsibility, philanthropic corporate responsibility, economic corporate responsibility and environmental corporate responsibility. Business owners are asked to consider how their businesses are responsible and where there is room for improvement. This chapter goes on to explore accountability, from what it means, to the benefits of accountability and how to create a culture of accountability.

Abstract

This chapter looks at how business owners can run a business that aligns with their core values. It explores what it means to be authentic and how business owners can live more authentically. Integrity and assertiveness are also examined with a view to supporting business owners to be true to themselves; the message is that when business owners align with their values, they are more likely to find their purpose. The role of transparency, creativity and clarity is also discussed.

Abstract

This chapter looks at how business owners can make a difference in their community by collaborating with others, and how they can influence the environment in which they do business. Business owners are invited to think about why it's important to make a positive contribution to society, what they already contribute and how they can make a difference in their communities by building engagement.

Abstract

This chapter explores how business owners can make a contribution towards solving societal and environmental challenges. Understanding personal values is introduced as a way to help business owners make better decisions, contribute more and live a life of purpose. This chapter also highlights the value of taking a long-term perspective when growing a business and explores the concept of Ubuntu, the African concept of interconnectedness and understanding that our actions, however small, can impact on others and the environment.

Abstract

This chapter looks at what mindfulness is, what it isn't and discusses the benefits of being more mindful for business owners. There are links to optional mindfulness practices and resources to help business owners make an informed choice about whether it's for them or not.

Cover of Developing the Prosocial Entrepreneur
DOI
10.1108/9781836082668
Publication date
2025-02-14
Authors
ISBN
978-1-83608-267-5
eISBN
978-1-83608-266-8