Leadership Competency Assessment of Chinese Technology Entrepreneurs

Abstract

Using two different samples under Chinese setting, this study tested the validity of construct-oriented entrepreneur's leadership competency situational judgment tests (LC-SJT) and compared the differences of leadership competencies between Chinese technology entrepreneurs and middle/senior managers. Results of confirmatory factor analysis supported the three-dimensional leadership competency model. Concurrent validity of LC-SJT relative to self-reported task performance, interpersonal facilitation, job dedication, and overall performance were 0.31, 0.26, 0.44, and 0.42. Chinese technology entrepreneurs performed worse in interpersonal competency, problem-solving competency and overall leadership competency than middle/senior managers; no significant difference existed in character competency. These results suggested the necessity in leadership competency development of Chinese technology entrepreneur to ensure new venture success. Implications of technology entrepreneur research to Chinese "building innovation-oriented country" strategy were also discussed.