Developing the Appropriate Employee Skill Set and Degree for Small International Businesses

Abstract

Small businesses are a formidable economic force in the U.S., representing the majority of firms, employing more than half the work force, creating two-thirds of new jobs, and accounting for just over half of the private sector output. Recently they have become an important factor in U.S. international business growth. The opportunity for small U.S. businesses to expand globally has never been greater as the number of small firms pursuing an international strategy continues to expand. This research looks at the skill needs and degree preferences of small businesses. The findings show that while small international businesses have the same kinds of personnel needs as all international business, the importance of some skills increases as the business becomes more involved in international commerce or grows larger. This article also discusses ways in which business schools can respond to small business personnel needs in curriculum design and emphasis.

Key Words:

• Small business
• technology
• business schools
• global business
• employee skills