Which Dimensions of Entrepreneurial Orientation Drive Firm Performance in Hostile Environments? Lessons From the Pandemic Crisis

Purpose: This study aims to analyze the roles of dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation (EO) – risk- -taking, proactiveness, and innovativeness – within the context of a crisis. Specifically, it evaluates the perspectives of entrepreneurs and managers regarding the impact of these dimensions on firm performance in the hostile environment created by the COVID-19 pandemic. The study adopts a unique perspective, focusing on retrospective assessments by entrepreneurs and managers rather than traditional econometric measurement techniques. Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative study was conducted, collecting data from 145 owners, managers, and supervisors of small companies in the printing industry in Poland. Respondents assessed the impact of the three EO dimensions on firm performance during the crisis, with each dimension evaluated across multiple aspects and indicators. Unlike traditional approaches, this method relied on subjective, retrospective experiences and evaluations of entrepreneurs and managers, rather than predefined constructs or statistical models. Findings: The results indicate that, in the hostile environment of the pandemic, two of the three EO dimensions, that is, proactiveness and innovativeness, were perceived by entrepreneurs and managers as significant factors mitigating the crisis’s impact on firm performance. On the contrary, risk-taking was not identified as a significant contributor in this context. These findings highlight the importance of specific entrepreneurial behaviors in uncertain and disruptive conditions. Practical implications: The study provides practical guidance for business owners and managers operating in crisis environments. Proactiveness and innovativeness should be considered critical entrepreneurial strategies to enhance resilience and firm performance. Moreover, the findings emphasize the value of leveraging crisis experiences to make future entrepreneurial decisions in in hostile environments. Originality/value: This study contributes to the literature on entrepreneurial orientation by introducing a novel methodological approach based on subjective evaluations of EO dimensions during a crisis. By addressing the gap in ex-post assessments of entrepreneurial behaviors under hostile conditions, this research provides both practical and theoretical insights into how EO can support firms in effectively navigating crises.