Opportunity Creation: The Effects of Affective Events and Information Processing (Systematic, Heuristic) on Opportunity Creation Idea Quantity and Quality

Abstract

Utilizing a sample of 206 entrepreneurs, this study examines opportunity creation idea quantity and quality for dispositionally positive or negative entrepreneurs following the experience of a positive or negative affective state event. Negative state affect induced by manipulation significantly reduced opportunity creation idea quantity and quality for dispositionally positive and negative entrepreneurs. Results suggest both dispositionally positive and negative entrepreneurs respond to experienced affective events quickly by generating numerous ideas, however the quality of those ideas was not particularly high. Results from this study can enhance our understanding of how entrepreneurs' can respond to uncertain, dynamic environmental factors and make quality decisions regarding potential opportunities.