Competencies of Hotel Entrepreneurs: a study based on the Oral History method

Abstract

The research was based on theoretical reflections which recognize a dynamic vision of the phenomenon of entrepreneurialism, viewing the individual entrepreneur as being at the center of the process. From the dynamic perspective of competence, i.e., competence as a result of the professional’s action, this study seeks to analyze the configuration of Entrepreneurial Competencies of the hotel sector, based on the historical reconstruction of the professional’s work experience and practice at the helm of the company. The qualitative investigation strategy used was Oral History, carried out using interviews with entrepreneurs in the hotel sector. The configuration of competencies and the knowledge mobilized for their expression were structured according to the definition of three analytical categories: Competencies related to the business and its context; competencies related to the management of the business; and competencies related to the personal characteristics of the business owner. The identification and definition of the competencies constructed in the narratives of the subjects’ life histories demonstrate the link between the constructs competence of the business owner and entrepeneurial opportunities, mediated by the emergence of critical events or complex situations faced by the subjects. Key- Words: Hotel sector – Entrepreneur - Entrepreneurial competencies.