Abstract
This thesis develops a competency framework for joiners of early-stage start-ups, focusing on competencies that predict Innovative Work Behaviour (IWB) and Organisational Citizenship Behaviour (OCB). Through systematic literature review and thematic analysis, key competencies were identified and grouped into six clusters: Motivational Drive, Adaptability and Learning, Resilience and Self-Management, Reliability and Planning, Interpersonal Effectiveness, and Creative Problem Solving. Validation through interviews and questionnaires with start-up founders revealed that competencies in Motivational Drive and Adaptability and Learning are strong predictors of effective joiners, while competencies such as Emotional Stability, Conscientiousness, Process Management Skills, Agreeableness, Cultural Intelligence, and majority of competencies in the Creative Problem Solving cluster are less significant. The study addresses common HR challenges in early-stage start-ups and emphasizes the importance of competency-based recruitment to enhance start-up performance and innovation. Additionally, the research includes suggestions for improving the framework to better fit the dynamic needs of start-ups. Future research is recommended to refine and contextualize the framework further.