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Journal of Financial Economics Vol. 96 No. 1 2010

Performance persistence in entrepreneurship

Paul A. Gompers1,2; Anna Kovner3; Josh Lerner1; David Scharfstein1

1 Harvard University · 2 National Bureau of Economic Research · 3 Federal Reserve Bank of New York

Abstract

This paper presents evidence of performance persistence in entrepreneurship. We show that entrepreneurs with a track record of success are much more likely to succeed than first-time entrepreneurs and those who have previously failed. In particular, they exhibit persistence in selecting the right industry and time to start new ventures. Entrepreneurs with demonstrated market timing skill are also more likely to outperform industry peers in their subsequent ventures. This is consistent with the view that if suppliers and customers perceive the entrepreneur to have market timing skill, and is therefore more likely to succeed, they will be more willing to commit resources to the firm. In this way, success breeds success and strengthens performance persistence.

DOI
10.1016/j.jfineco.2009.11.001
Volume
96
Issue
1
Pages
18-32
Language
en
Sources
bibtex:phds-export.bib openalex crossref

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