The antecedent factors of resource orchestration and moderating effects of social network competence on entrepreneurial success

Many young entrepreneurs are involved in business; however, many studies have found that only a few of these entrepreneurs are able to survive due to many factors. Among the factors are types of resources and the resource management ability as well as networking ability. These factors are in line with the resource-based view and sociological theories. Therefore, this study aims to test the model of entrepreneurial success based on the capability of entrepreneurs in managing resources and the role of social networking competence as moderators. This study employed the quantitative method via a cross-sectional survey. A number of 375 questionnaires were distributed, but only 134 returned responses were usable and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) and PLS-SEM. The results supported eight (8) research hypotheses. The study found that the antecedent factors of survivability, financial resources and government support influence the development of resource orchestration (RO) and that RO significantly influences entrepreneurial success. The study also confirmed that social network competence moderates the relationship between RO and entrepreneurial success (individual and organizational success). The outcome of this research contributes to the body of knowledge concerning resource-based and sociological perspectives as well as guides young entrepreneurs in their business endeavours. The findings also will create awareness in enlightening the decision of policymakers, academics and practitioners in Malaysia to perceive resource orchestration and social network competence as a strategic factor in achieving better business performance. The limitations of the study include being limited to a number of respondents which are Malays, and the data was gathered only at a single point in time. Thus, it is recommended for future researchers to use a larger sample of respondents or generalise to other groups of entrepreneurs from different agencies, different races or make a comparison to investigate their level of resource orchestration for business success.