Influence of mentors on networking behaviour of small business owners: a conceptual framework

Abstract

The core purpose of this paper is to review the literature on networks and networking in relation to mentors within the small business context. The method was a review of literature including research and case studies related to mentors and networks and networking within the small business context from various databases. This literature review presents six propositions and a research framework for future studies in these areas where gaps are identified. New directions offered include: 1) examining the influence of mentors on small business owners' networks (structure, interaction and content) during different stages of network formation for both planned and accidental, or one off interactions; 2) researching the influence of mentors on the two main types of barriers to networking: operational and psychological barriers; 3) whether mentors can affect the success of inter-firm networks between a small business and other businesses.