Entrepreneurial Desire for Outmigration: A Validated Measure

Abstract

Abstract Objective: The objective of this study was to understand the personal and inter- personal pressures entrepreneurial individuals feel to pursue opportunities out- side their home country. Methodology: Entrepreneurs in Mexico were given a survey regarding personal and interpersonal pressures to out migrate. Findings: Exploratory factor analysis showed three valid factors for outmigration: personal preference, social pressure, and perception of opportunities. Value Added: The instrument developed offers an overall Outmigration Tendency (OT) score which can provide valuable insight into why entrepreneurs choose to emigrate. This appears to be the first instrument to measure outmigration pressure and to be validated internationally. Recommendations: The tendency score resulting from the survey can help researchers and policy makers understand the likelihood of a worker leaving his/her country to seek work opportunities elsewhere.