Abstract

Studies suggest that management style affects organizational innovation. However, not much is known about innovation in women-owned enterprises, especially in a developing society such as Malaysia. The current study, therefore aims to examine how Malaysian women entrepreneurs perceive and manage innovation. Due to the exploratory nature of the analysis, a qualitative approach is adopted. 10 women entrepreneurs are interviewed regarding their perception and implementation of innovation, as well as the problems they face and their solutions to those problems, based on the responses, 4 distinct management styles are identified. The study has several theoretical and practical implications. In particular they provide direction on women’s development issues to policy-makers and managers, as well as researchers in the areas of culture, gender and innovation.

Key words: Women entrepreneurs, management style, innovation, Malaysia