Title: Innovation and learning through dialogue in the entrepreneurial networking process

Authors: Raija Leskinen

Addresses: School of Economics Entrepreneurship, Aalto University, P.O. Box 21290, Arkadiankatu 28, 4th Floor, FI-00076 Aalto, Finland

Abstract: This research focuses on innovation and learning through dialogue in the entrepreneurial networking process from the individual|s point of view. Experiences often show disappointments or failures in the entrepreneurial networking process. The main reasons for failure are found in people-related and social issues. This research explores innovation and learning through dialogue and how entrepreneurs experienced dialogue during the entrepreneurial networking process. The methodological approach is a longitudinal case study. The data were collected during 2006-2008 from 25 female entrepreneurs. The data were analysed by qualitative and quantitative methods. The entrepreneurs found that dialogue in the entrepreneurial networking process was especially good in ideation/co-creation and group building. It also enhanced creativity, they learned to listen and respect each other. In their experience dialogue enhanced cooperation and is important in interaction.

Keywords: female entrepreneurs; entrepreneurial networking; networks; disappointment; failure; individuals; people-related issues; social issues; dialogue; longitudinal case studies; women; gender; ideation; co-creation; group building; creativity; listening; respect; cooperation; interaction; Finland; learning; intellectual capital; innovation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLIC.2012.043988

International Journal of Learning and Intellectual Capital, 2012 Vol.9 No.1/2, pp.170 - 189

Published online: 02 Sep 2014 *

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