From Employees to Entrepreneurs: A Qualitative Exploration of Career Transitions in Ghana

Kwadwo Ofosu-Ampem, Baidoo (2025) From Employees to Entrepreneurs: A Qualitative Exploration of Career Transitions in Ghana. Doctoral thesis, Asia e University, Malaysia.

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Abstract

This study investigates the transition of employees into entrepreneurship within Ghana’s challenging context of high business failure and youth unemployment. Although former employees often exhibit characteristics conducive to entrepreneurial success, many are discouraged by fears of failure, income instability, and systemic barriers. Existing research offers limited insight into their post-transition experiences and success factors. Employing a qualitative methodology, this study purposively sampled entrepreneurs who had transitioned from formal employment and sustained their businesses. Data collected through semi-structured interviews were analysed thematically. Findings show that key motivations for transition include job dissatisfaction, the pursuit of financial independence, desire for work-life balance, and recognition of market opportunities. Preparation strategies encompassed personal savings, skill development, market research, and pilot ventures. Participants leveraged prior work experience, professional networks, and managerial competencies to strengthen their enterprises. Critical success factors identified include sound financial management, excellent customer service, continuous learning, strategic marketing, staff empowerment, resilience, adaptability, and personal commitment. Based on these insights, the study proposes the Employees’ Transition to Entrepreneurship (ETE) Model, outlining pre-transition, transition, and post-transition phases. The research extends the Theory of Planned Behaviour by emphasizing the intention-behaviour link and recommends context-specific policies such as targeted training, accessible financing, tax incentives, and regulatory reforms to support successful transitions.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Employee, entrepreneurship, Ghana, transition, model
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor
Divisions:	School of Graduate Studies
Depositing User:	Muhamad Aizat Nazmi Mohd Nor Hamin
Date Deposited:	09 Apr 2026 04:26
Last Modified:	09 Apr 2026 04:26
URI:	http://ur.aeu.edu.my/id/eprint/1456

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