Many start-ups do not survive the first few years of business. Previous studies suggest that networks play a role in start-ups’ success, but this positive effect has limits. The purpose of this paper is to answer the call for a better understanding of the dark side of networks and the variables that condition the likelihood of start-ups’ survival. Based on an empirical study from two different countries, the results show that effective networking is contingent on the start-up’s economic situation and creative potential. Specifically, the results point to situations in which early sales growth may lead to external networking, which, in contexts of low creativity-oriented start-ups, can compromise the start-ups’ success.

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Loneliness is a widespread concern among older adults, profoundly affecting their well-being. Social robots—designed to engage in social interactions and form emotional connections—are increasingly perceived as social actors in human-robot relationships and offer promising potential to alleviate loneliness. This study examines how older adults interact with social robots to address different forms of loneliness and enhance their subjective well-being. Across a pilot correlational study and two experiments, the results reveal two distinct mechanisms through which social robots improve well-being: attachment for individuals experiencing emotional loneliness and social integration for those facing social loneliness. This research contributes to the literature on loneliness, transformative consumer research, and human–robot interaction.
- Research
- Marketing, Sales and Communication
