Edward Elgar Publishing Habitual Entrepreneurs

Despite a number of success stories presented in the media, not all habitual entrepreneurs (entrepreneurs who have owned at least two businesses) are consistently successful. This book is inspired by the apparent dearth of rigorous research to underpin - or in some cases challenge - the popular perception of habitual entrepreneurs. It seeks to address the gap in the literature by shedding light on the phenomenon of habitual entrepreneurship. Deniz Ucbasaran, Paul Westhead and Mike Wright use a combination of theory and empirical evidence to illustrate why it is so important for researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs and investors to distinguish between novice (i.e. first time) entrepreneurs and habitual entrepreneurs. Issues tackled include human capital characteristics, information search and opportunity identification behaviours, and the performance of different types of entrepreneurs. The book also highlights the heterogeneity of habitual entrepreneurs by drawing attention to serial and portfolio entrepreneurs. Developing a conceptual framework and an agenda for future research, Habitual Entrepreneurs will prove a significant reference tool for academics, students and researchers with an interest in entrepreneurship and SMEs. Its systematic analysis of the role of prior entrepreneurial experience in the venturing process will also be invaluable to practitioners such as policymakers, entrepreneurs and investors. Review 'This is an excellent book. The conceptual framework and empirical results are presented in a most readable form. The reader is also provided with a comprehensive discussion of the results obtained. The book contains a wealth of information about entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship, and provides numerous suggestions for future research.' -- Economic Outlook and Business Review About the Author Deniz Ucbasaran, University of Warwick, UK, Paul Westhead, Chair in Entrepreneurship and Director, Centre of Entrepreneurship, Durham University, UK and the late Mike Wright, formerly Professor of Entrepreneurship and Director, Centre for Management Buyout Research, Imperial College Business School, London, UK