Abstract:
The main objective of this study was to investigate the impact of strategic orientation
and networking on the sustainable performance of SMEs. A quantitative approach was
used, and a self-administered questionnaire was employed during the data collection
process. A four-section questionnaire covering demographic information, strategic
orientation variables, networking variables and sustainable performance variables was
prepared and distributed randomly to a selected sample of 300 SME owners in
Polokwane Municipality in Limpopo Province. A total of 140 questionnaires were
returned. The software used to analyse information gathered and to ensure accuracy
and reliability of the study results was Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS)
version 26.0. Correlation and regression analyses were performed to determine the
relationship between strategic orientation and sustainable performance, and the
relationship between networking and sustainable performance. The Cronbach’s alpha
was used as a measure of reliability. The results of the study revealed that both
strategic orientation and networking positively impact on the performance of SMEs.
Recommendations to improve the strategic orientation and networking of SMEs are
suggested. These recommendations offered meaningful insights into SME owners,
government, non-government organisations and other organisations for the
improvement of their businesses while providing room for future research studies.
