Networking and creativity: Entrepreneurial teams in high-technology startup enterprises in China

Using cross-case analysis with a survey of a large sample drawn from recently established high-technology entrepreneurial teams in China, we explored the interaction mechanism effect of the teams' internal and external networking behavior on their creativity. Results showed that external networking behavior (such as maintaining business connections, expanding external social interaction, and participating in external professional activities) and internal networking behavior (such as increasing internal transparency) generate a positive influence on entrepreneurial teams' creativity. Further, this influence is boosted by an interactive effect between the external and internal networking behavior of the entrepreneurial teams. Theoretical and managerial implications are discussed.