Multiple Goal Pursuit in Social Enterprises: How Does Regulatory Focus Relate to Opportunity Evaluation?

Abstract

In this study, we mobilize a self-regulation approach to the understanding of multiple goal pursuit in social enterprises and, in particular, business opportunity evaluation. Based on Regulatory Focus Theory, we identify a series of management profiles, along with their own strengths and weaknesses in terms of goal pursuit. Then, we propose a set of propositions that link managers' regulatory focus, perceived alignment with personal ideals, and perceived alignment with the venture's duties, with opportunity evaluation in social enterprises. As such, we argue that a self-regulatory approach might help researchers and practitioners in opening the black box of decision-making in social enterprises.