Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)

School

Management

Advisor

William Stokes

Abstract

AbstractThe covid-19 pandemic had a significant impact on small businesses. Small business leaders have been challenged to maintain profitability during a global crisis. Small business owners are concerned with the covid-19 pandemic because they faced profitability losses and business closures during the prolonged crisis. Grounded in authentic leadership theory, the purpose of this multiple case study was to explore strategies some small business leaders used to remain profitable during the Covid-19 crisis. The participants were four business leaders in Tampa, FL, who have remained profitable despite the pandemic. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis; five themes emerged: CDC guidelines, changes in the world, challenges, survival, and profitability. A key recommendation for a small business leader is to have a preparedness plan consisting of engineering and administrative controls for social distancing and housekeeping, such as cleaning, disinfecting, and decontamination. The implication for positive social change includes the potential for small business leaders to remain profitable while providing employment opportunities.

Included in

Business Commons

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