The Resilient Characteristics of Entrepreneur Associated with the Business Failure

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the resilient characteristics of entrepreneurs in order to understand if and how their behavior can be associated with business failure. This is a qualitative and exploratory study and it was used the technique of content analysis, coupled with the application of Defensive Functioning Scale, to analyze the entrepreneurs behavior before business failure. We interviewed 13 entrepreneurs from São Paulo who experienced business failure. As main results, it is evident the omnipotence style presented in 12 of the 13 respondents; affiliation, confirmed in 9 of the 13 respondents, and actuation, in 7 of the 13 respondents before business failure. Considering that omnipotence was the behavioral trait more evident, this behavior can demonstrate the arrogance of the individual against the others, which may influence the decisions of the entrepreneur, employee motivation and customer dissatisfaction, thereby resulting, business failure.