The Linkage between Reputational Resources, Knowledge and Export Performance

The main goal of this study is to analyze the influence of reputational resources and knowledge transformation and exploitation on export performance. Therefore, a quantitative methodological approach was used, conducting a descriptive, exploratory and transversal empirical study, having applied a questionnaire to a sample of Portuguese companies exporting footwear. The results support the merits of the RBV and DCV theories, indicating that it offers explanatory power. The findings suggest that reputation resources and knowledge transformation and exploitation indeed have a positive effect on export performance. Therefore, this findings sustain the necessity to invest in this kind of resources and capabilities as a strategic determinant, which contributes to the growth of small firms in foreign markets. Finally, the main limitation of this study is related to the sample size, since it was difficult to find companies willing to collaborate with this kind of research.