| Abstrakt: |
This literature review paper presents a novel perspective on toxic mistrust in business-to-business networks. Our unique approach involves a comprehensive description of inter-organizational trust, its differentiation from toxic mistrust, and the subsequent consequences. We employ a 7-step approach typology, conducting both backward and forward-looking searches to identify the key articles and publications shaping this field. The research underscores the crucial role of inter-organizational trust in business relationships and its direct impact on the performance of global business networks. Trust fosters transparent communication, a key element in reducing behavioral uncertainty among network partners. This is not limited to individual interactions but also encompasses a developmental process over time, shaped by historical interactions and future expectations. The main driver of this process is the development of independence through resource and asset sharing. Mistrust, particularly toxic mistrust, is an effect of malevolence, a dimension of trust that is forward-looking and expectation focused. This mindset assumes that uncertainty will inevitably impact future relationships. It creates a toxic business environment where trust is withheld, even without evidence to justify such actions. This not only hampers the development of new business relationships but also can lead to the premature termination of existing ones, often without identified experienced-based credibility issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
