ROLE OF TOLERANCE TO AMBIGUITY, ENVIRONMENTAL PERCEPTION, AUTHENTIC LEADERSHIP AND PERFORMANCE IN SMES

This study analyses the relationship between tolerance to ambiguity, environmental perception, authentic leadership and performance in SMEs. In order to test the above, information is collected from 285 entrepreneurs and through a combination, the mediation analysis is applied with the moderation of the direct effect of tolerance to ambiguity on performance through the environmental perception, as well as an effect on the relationship between the mentioned variables is determined directly, which is a function of authentic leadership. The authors found that tolerance to ambiguity and authentic leadership were positive predictors of environmental perception, which in turn positively impacted performance in SMEs. Additionally, the study revealed that the relationship between tolerance to ambiguity and performance was mediated by environmental perception. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into how the interplay of various factors can impact SME performance outcomes and suggests that enhancing tolerance to ambiguity and authentic leadership can lead to improved environmental perception and, ultimately, better performance for such businesses.