Sustainable performance based on talent management and entrepreneurship orientation in e-business firms: the mediating role of knowledge management practices

Abstract

Purpose Utilizing a multi-directional model, the current study aims to investigate the relationship between talent management (TM), entrepreneurial orientation (EO) and sustainable performance (SP). In addition, the study also aims to reveal the role of knowledge management practices (KMP) as a mediator in the above-mentioned relationship. Design/methodology/approach The study was conducted in the Jordanian context. Jordan is considered an emergent economy, which denotes a vivacious economy with productive entrepreneurship ecosystems that witness socio-economic imbalances and robust profit-drivenness alongside high-cost pressure due to the scarcity of natural resources. A quantitative approach with a questionnaire design was employed to conduct this study, whereas 87 e-firms were the targeted population. The hypothesized relationships depicted in the study model are analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) via SmartPLS 4. Findings The study shows that TM and EO are both positively associated with SP. However, the results showed that KMP partially mediates the relationship between TM and SP and the relationship between EO and SP. Practical implications This study has substantial managerial implications for practitioners and policymakers, especially regarding managing talent, knowledge and entrepreneurship and their influence on SP under rising stakeholders' sustainability expectations. The research clarifies the function of KMP in managing the connection between TM and a firm's SP. This finding highlights the imperative for firms to prioritize ongoing training of employees to tackle environmental issues, provide resources for meeting social duties and implement governance that accommodates various stakeholder interests. Originality/value The study expands the literature by explaining how KMP mediates the relationship between TM and EO to form SP. According to the report, Jordanian e-firms respond quickly and effectively to problems that need entrepreneurial impulses and leadership skills. Leaders may use knowledge management to improve SP in emerging economies, notably Jordan. The hypothesized model and the relationships were logically built using a variety of theories, such as knowledge-based view, resource-based view and resource orchestration theory.