Leveraging Social Networks and Political Skill: A Study on the Internationalization of SMEs in the Asian Context

This study investigates the role of political skill among SME owner-managers in fostering social network resources that enhance internationalization, particularly in resource-constrained environments. Drawing on social network theory, the research explores how these interpersonal capabilities enable business leaders to navigate complex social landscapes and build networks that facilitate international market entry and growth.Using a self-administered cross-sectional survey, data were collected from 99 exporting SMEs in Pakistan. The findings reveal that social network resources mediate the relationship between owner-managers’ political skill and the degree of internationalization. Politically skilled individuals are more adept at cultivating trust, influencing stakeholders, and strategically mobilizing relationships—thereby accessing valuable market knowledge and opportunities abroad. Moreover, the study identifies a moderating effect of political skill, indicating that its presence strengthens the positive link between network resources and internationalization. This highlights that political skill is not only a tool for resource acquisition but also a mechanism for maximizing the utility of those resources. By emphasizing the behavioural competencies of SME leaders, the study contributes to the growing literature on international entrepreneurship and strategic networking. It also underscores the importance of soft skills in overcoming institutional and financial limitations faced by SMEs in emerging economies. The findings have practical implications for policymakers and training institutions aiming to develop SME capacity for sustainable international growth