How Social Networks Help with Proactive Resilience: Evidence from Chinese Companies

Abstract

This study examines how social networks enable emerging market firms to develop, strengthen, and sustain proactive resilience in a turbulent global environment. Drawing on interviews with top managers in selected Chinese multinational firms, the study identifies three network pillars – domestic regulatory, domestic industry, and global networks – that can reduce vulnerability and strengthen proactive resilience. This study enhances the understanding of social networks and their role in contributing to firm resilience. It also provides three recommendations for firms faced with increasingly turbulent environments.