Transforming entrepreneurial intentions to action: a serial mediation model of entrepreneurial alertness and entrepreneurial self-efficacy

Purpose The specific mechanisms that transform entrepreneurs’ intentions into realized entrepreneurial behaviors remain a novel subject of ongoing investigation. Therefore, achieving insights into this process will be critical for expanding theory and informing practices. Furthermore, this study aims to address the gaps in existing research by examining the mediating impact of entrepreneurial alertness and entrepreneurial self-efficacy in shaping entrepreneurial intentions and entrepreneurial behavior. Design/methodology/approach A PLS-based structural equation model was used, based on data collected from 405 randomly selected aspiring entrepreneurs at the start-up stage in Saudi Arabia. Findings This study found that entrepreneurial alertness and entrepreneurial self-efficacy significantly and positively mediate the relationship between entrepreneurial intentions and entrepreneurial behaviors, independently and serially. Remarkably, entrepreneurial alertness emerged as the strongest predictor among all variables in the conceptual model influencing entrepreneurs’ entrepreneurial behavior. Research limitations/implications This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by empirically substantiating the sequential role of two critical cognitive elements in materializing entrepreneurial intentions into entrepreneurial actions. Originality/value Besides bridging critical research gaps, this study’s findings offer useful implications for practice and policymakers to nurture entrepreneurial alertness and entrepreneurial self-efficacy to promote entrepreneurship.