Entrepreneurs’ social skill-set and entrepreneurial learning : A review and ways forward

: Lamine, Wadid; Jack, Sarah; Fayolle, Alain; Mian, Sarfraz

: Politis, Diamanto; Aaboen, Lise; Gabrielsson, Jonas

Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing

: 2025

: Handbook of Research on Entrepreneurial Learning

: Research Handbooks in Business and Management series

: 210

: 226

: 978-1-80392-220-1

: 978-1-80392-221-8

DOI: https://doi.org/10.4337/9781803922218.00023

: https://doi.org/10.4337/9781803922218.00023

The entrepreneurship literature has shown a link between social networks and entrepreneurial outcomes. Yet, within existing literature, little has been said about how individual social skills are connected to social network formation and entrepreneurial learning. This chapter considers the relevance of an entrepreneur's social skill-sets and how these might impact entrepreneurial learning and support the entrepreneur in being able to leverage social networks and human capital. It also shows how developing a greater understanding of their link can help advance knowledge about entrepreneurship and how entrepreneurial learning can enhance social skills. Potential avenues for future research and guidance for entrepreneurs, educators, and advisors are also offered.