Chinese Women Pursuing Entrepreneurial Career

Abstract: This study aims to explore Chinese women’s experiences of transitioning to entrepreneurial careers through the lens of gender and culture. We conducted an exploratory qualitative study through in-depth, semi-structured, one-on-one interviews with 16 Chinese women entrepreneurs. We applied both the social cognitive career theory choice model and Schlossberg’s 4S transition theory as the theoretical framework. We identified several factors that influenced Chinese women’s career choices to entrepreneurship including personal factors (career aspirations and goals as well as personal traits and characteristics), contextual factors (family impact, economic context, and gender discrimination and social norms), and behavioral factors (innovation and preparation). In addition, the findings indicated that participants had a lack of skills and knowledge and faced a challenging business environment. We found that the participants had different transition experiences based on their career stage, previous experiences, and family status. In addition, we found that the participants used lifelong learning and defying gender stereotypes and discrimination as strategies during the career transition to entrepreneurship. Moreover, the participants received support from several sources including role models, mentors, family, and the community. Finally, we proposed a culture-gender intersectionality and equality framework for a career transition to better understand Chinese women entrepreneurs’ career choices and transition. The model highlighted the impact of gender, culture, and gender equality awareness on these factors. This study provided the groundwork for a more comprehensive understanding of women's career transition to entrepreneurship, particularly in the Chinese cultural context.