This study aims to investigate the relationship between entrepreneurial competencies and entrepreneurial intentions among senior employees who are relatively close to retirement and to examine whether entrepreneurial spirit moderates this relationship...
This study aims to investigate the relationship between entrepreneurial competencies and entrepreneurial intentions among senior employees who are relatively close to retirement and to examine whether entrepreneurial spirit moderates this relationship. A survey was conducted with senior employees aged 50 and above who are employed in large manufacturing companies, resulting in a sample of 546 respondents. Multiple regression analysis and hierarchical regression analysis were used to analyze the data. The study produced the following key findings regarding the impact of senior employees' entrepreneurial competencies and entrepreneurial spirit on entrepreneurial intentions. First, the marketing competencies and technical competencies of senior employees had a positive effect on entrepreneurial intentions. Second, among the sub-elements of entrepreneurial spirit, innovativeness showed a moderating effect on the relationship between marketing competencies and entrepreneurial intentions but did not exhibit a moderating effect on the relationship between technical competencies and entrepreneurial intentions. Third, both risk-taking and proactivity demonstrated positive moderating effects between both marketing and technical competencies and entrepreneurial intentions. The study suggests the need to provide training programs for senior employees that not only enhance their marketing and technical competencies but also foster entrepreneurial spirit, thereby facilitating entrepreneurial opportunities during the pre-retirement phase.