Exploring the roles of cognitive style and guanxi networks in creativity, leadership, and entrepreneurship

Cognitive style and guanxi networks are two essential indicators determining the success of entrepreneurship. However, it is still unknown why the two elements influence an individual's entrepreneurship. The relationships among cognitive style, guanxi networks, creativity, leadership, and entrepreneurship may explain the roles of cognitive style and guanxi networks in entrepreneurship. To reveal the roles of cognitive style and guanxi networks in entrepreneurship, we conducted an online questionnaire survey among 178 students. The data were analyzed using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Results indicate that cognitive style is a key factor influencing creativity and leadership. Guanxi networks are the primary influencing factor of entrepreneurship. In addition, creativity has a positive effect on entrepreneurship. The findings illuminated the roles of cognitive style and guanxi networks in entrepreneurship which can also provide implications for entrepreneurship education.