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Article
Publication date: 12 December 2024

Hiba Hussein, Moustafa Haj Youssef and Steve Nolan

This study examines the returns from education for three distinct groups: always employees, dabblers in self-employment and sustained self-employed individuals. We aim to…

Abstract

Purpose

This study examines the returns from education for three distinct groups: always employees, dabblers in self-employment and sustained self-employed individuals. We aim to understand how educational attainment translates into earnings across these employment types in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data from the British Household Panel Survey (BHPS) and Understanding Society: The UK Household Longitudinal Study (UKHLS), we employ a random effects (RE) model to account for unobserved individual characteristics and the Heckman selection model to address self-selection bias, ensuring accurate estimates of educational returns.

Findings

Our findings indicate that sustained self-employed individuals benefit more from education compared to dabblers and, in certain cases, traditional employees. Dabblers with postgraduate education report higher returns than always employees, but those with lower educational levels experience disadvantages due to their intermittent labour market engagement.

Originality/value

This study introduces new evidence on the heterogeneity of educational returns for self-employed individuals in the UK, providing a novel comparative analysis of different employment types and highlighting the unique challenges and outcomes related to educational attainment and earnings.

Details

Higher Education, Skills and Work-Based Learning, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-3896

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 August 2024

Ioannis Christodoulou, Moustafa Haj Youssef, Jahangir Wasim, Tam Thi Thanh Phan, Robert Reinhardt and Bao Ngoc Nguyen

This study aims to explore the impact of social, financial and institutional factors on women’s entrepreneurship in Vietnam, emphasizing motivation’s role in addressing…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the impact of social, financial and institutional factors on women’s entrepreneurship in Vietnam, emphasizing motivation’s role in addressing challenges. Women’s entrepreneurship holds economic significance, driving local economies and creating opportunities. Government efforts to support women entrepreneurs have increased, but research on this in developing economies, especially in Vietnam, is limited.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper investigates women’s entrepreneurship in Vietnam, examining social, financial and institutional influences and emphasizing motivation in overcoming challenges. Using a qualitative approach, it conducts in-depth interviews with 28 female entrepreneurs, analyzing data thematically. Methodologically, the study uses purposive sampling, triangulation and member checking to enhance credibility.

Findings

Findings reveal key motivations like financial incentives, self-achievement and social impact. These motivations empower women to overcome financial constraints, skill gaps, limited support and societal perceptions. This research guides women entrepreneurs to enhance success through learning, persistence, skill development and self-awareness.

Originality/value

This paper presents a novel exploration into women’s entrepreneurship in Vietnam, offering original insights into the interplay of social, financial and institutional factors, with a spotlight on motivational drivers. It provides unique perspectives on their motivations, challenges and support mechanisms. The study’s contribution lies in its comprehensive understanding of women’s entrepreneurship dynamics in a developing economy like Vietnam, offering valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners and academics alike. Its originality lies in its holistic approach and nuanced examination, enriching the discourse on women’s entrepreneurship in emerging

Article
Publication date: 4 January 2024

Moustafa Haj Youssef, Jahangir Wasim, Ioannis Christodoulou and Robert Reinhardt

The aim of this study is to explore and elucidate the influence of polygamy on the succession dynamics of family businesses in the Arab world, offering insights that may be…

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study is to explore and elucidate the influence of polygamy on the succession dynamics of family businesses in the Arab world, offering insights that may be underrepresented or overlooked in traditional, Western-focused literature.

Design/methodology/approach

This article adopts a perspective-based approach, focusing on delving into the amalgamation of polygamous family structures and their implications on the operation and continuation of family-run businesses.

Findings

Polygamy, while often primarily perceived as a cultural or religious tradition, wields substantial influence over various business facets. Notably, its presence can significantly shape business continuity, the methodologies behind succession planning and the overarching framework of corporate governance within Arab family businesses.

Originality/value

This article offers a unique Middle Eastern lens, highlighting the underexplored intersection of polygamy and business succession. It strives to bridge the knowledge gap by addressing topics potentially sidelined in mainstream Western business research.

Details

Journal of Family Business Management, vol. 14 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2043-6238

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 14 October 2024

Ioannis Christodoulou, Satrio Utomo Putranto, Moustafa Haj Youssef, Aspasia Simillidou and Jana Chovancová

The research investigates scaling and client networking in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), using ABCD, an Indonesian telecom tower provider, as a case study. Key…

Abstract

Purpose

The research investigates scaling and client networking in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), using ABCD, an Indonesian telecom tower provider, as a case study. Key findings underscore the importance of strategic planning, human resource management, networking and customer-centric approaches for successful scaling. ABCD's experiences inform practical guidance for SMEs, advocating strategic scaling, leveraging personal networks, implementing customer relationship management (CRM), fostering adaptability and prioritizing customer satisfaction. Theoretical implications enrich discussions on demand-driven scaling, network dynamics and CRM application. Overall, the study offers concise insights into SME growth strategies, drawing from ABCD's experiences and broader literature.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology employed in this study adopts a case study approach, focusing on ABCD, a telecom tower provider in Indonesia. Qualitative analysis of textual data is conducted, combining deductive reasoning to establish theoretical frameworks from existing literature and inductive reasoning to identify emergent themes. Interviews, structured around four thematic domains, were conducted with a diverse cohort of participants selected through convenience and snowball sampling techniques. Ethical considerations were paramount, with written consent obtained and interviews conducted in Bahasa Indonesia to ensure linguistic alignment. Grounded Theory was applied to analyse data, seeking to enrich theoretical frameworks and inform managerial practices in SMEs.

Findings

The findings illuminate strategies applicable to all SMEs in scaling up and fortifying client networks. Emphasizing demand-driven scaling and strategic client acquisition, SMEs are encouraged to leverage personal networks and exhibit adaptability in response to market trends. Implementing CRM principles fosters lasting client relationships and profitability. Practical implications underscore the importance of strategic planning, proactive networking and customer-centric approaches for SMEs aiming to navigate growth complexities. Theoretical insights contribute to scholarly discourse on SME growth strategies, network dynamics, CRM application and organizational strategies, enriching understanding of SMEs' journey in scaling up and client networking.

Research limitations/implications

The study's limitations encompass its reliance on a single case study, necessitating caution in generalizing findings to diverse SME contexts. Further empirical validation is warranted to enhance the study's robustness. However, the study offers exciting implications for both academia and practice, shedding light on the intricate dynamics of scaling strategies and client networking in SMEs. Its critical appraisal of conventional notions challenges prevailing wisdom, paving the way for future research to explore innovative approaches and enrich scholarly discourse.

Practical implications

The practical implications underscore the transformative potential for SMEs, urging strategic adoption of scaling strategies and client networking dynamics. Emphasizing proactive planning and adaptive approaches, SMEs can navigate growth complexities and fortify client relationships. By prioritizing human capital, leveraging personal networks and embracing customer-centricity, SMEs can enhance profitability and sustainability. These insights serve as a roadmap for SMEs, guiding them towards strategic growth and success in a dynamic business landscape.

Social implications

The research unfolds critical insights with profound social implications for SMEs worldwide. By illuminating effective strategies in scaling up and nurturing client networks, it empowers SMEs to thrive in competitive landscapes, fostering economic growth and job creation. Additionally, its emphasis on leveraging personal networks and adopting customer-centric approaches underscores the importance of social capital and community engagement in business success. This not only strengthens SME resilience but also cultivates a culture of collaboration and innovation within local communities. Ultimately, the research serves as a catalyst for social transformation, empowering SMEs to become engines of prosperity and positive change.

Originality/value

The findings critically appraise strategies imperative for all SMEs, challenging conventional notions and offering pragmatic insights into scaling and client networking dynamics. By juxtaposing empirical evidence from ABCD's experiences with existing theoretical frameworks, the study exposes nuances often overlooked in scholarly discourse. Its value lies in bridging the gap between theory and practice, shedding light on the intricate challenges facing SMEs in navigating growth complexities.

Details

Journal of Trade Science, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2815-5793

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 August 2024

Moustafa Haj Youssef, Tarek El Masri, Ioannis Christodoulou and Lan Mai Thanh

This viewpoint aims to provide an overview of graduate employability in Lebanon from the perspective of the Dean of Olayan School of Business at the American University of Beirut…

Abstract

Purpose

This viewpoint aims to provide an overview of graduate employability in Lebanon from the perspective of the Dean of Olayan School of Business at the American University of Beirut, who is a reputable academic leader heading a world-ranked business school. The discussion also looks at the external factors that affect graduate employability in Lebanon with direct references to the Covid-19 pandemic and the economic crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

Through conversation with the Dean of a prominent business school in Lebanon, this viewpoint discusses several topics pertaining to the concept of graduate employability.

Findings

To boost graduate employability the focus should be on developing the curriculum, engaging with the alumni network, exploiting the board of governors and building on the school’s reputation and legacy.

Originality/value

Crises do offer new opportunities. Covid-19 pandemic has prepared employers to accept the idea of remote working, which has helped in boosting graduate employability in Lebanon.

Details

Journal of Asia Business Studies, vol. 18 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1558-7894

Keywords

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