CULTURE AND MANAGEMET OF SMALL AND MEDIUM SCALE ENTERPRISES

This study was carried out to examine the culture and management of small and medium scale enterprises using selected SMEs in Akwa Ibom State as case study. In order to achieve the objectives of the study, a survey research design was adopted and Taro Yamane formula was used to determine a sample size of one hundred and twenty (120) respondents from a population of one hundred and thirteen (113) for the study. Instrument for the study was a self-developed questionnaire which was personally administered. Hypotheses were formulated to guide the study and data were analyzed using simple percentages and chi-square (χ²) statistical tool. Data analysis revealed that; there is a significant effect of leadership style on the management of small and medium enterprises; there is a significant effect of organizational values on the management of small and medium enterprises; there is a significant effect of communication on the management of small and medium enterprises; there is a significant effect of organizational ethics on the management of small and medium enterprises. Hence, the researcher therefore recommended that SME management should adopt a transformational leadership style that emphasizes employee empowerment, open communication, and collaboration and Effective communication strategies should be implemented across all levels of the organization. Also, SMEs must prioritize ethical behavior by developing a comprehensive code of conduct and ensuring that it is consistently enforced