In today’s slumping economy, we are seeing more and more people decide to get into business for themselves due to the uncertainty of the job market. They want to be in control of their futures rather than being a puppet on a sting (which can be cut at anytime).
There are also those who like the idea of being an entrepreneur, but are not sure whether or not they have what it takes to be a successful business owner. My answer to that is if the dream is big enough, the facts don’t count. In other words, you already have within you what it takes to be successful so take action NOW!
Outlined below are 5 characteristics (there are many more) of an Entrepreneur found on Affiliate Tips.com:
http://www.affiliatetips.com/characteristics-of-an-entrepreneur.html
No. 1 — Visionary Characteristics of an Entrepreneur
Business is not just about making a profit. Of course, it’s the reason for business, but profit is the hopeful result rather than the actual means. A successful business leader has to be something like a successful politician — inspiring large groups of people to action.
Having a vision is a major component of inspiring both employees and colleagues. The important component is dreaming big. However, dreaming big has some limits. It needs to be tempered by pragmatism or no one is going to take the vision seriously.
No. 2 — Self-Awareness is an Important Characteristic of an Entrepreneur
Being able to inspire other people to action requires knowledge of self. Too many budding entrepreneurs despise admitting their own weaknesses. They believe that part of success is putting on a false bravado. Often, people can see through the facade.
More importantly, though, is the idea that a successful entrepreneur is only as strong as the people working for him. An entrepreneur needs to be honest about his own faults and strengths, so that he can hire people who will best meet the needs of the business.
No. 3 — Entrepreneurial Characteristics and Intelligence
The entrepreneur exhibits intelligence through intellectual curiosity. An entrepreneur can’t just sit back on his heels and wait to find business opportunities. He always needs to be investigating new modes of business and making new contacts.
In addition, an entrepreneur has to be a long and short-term planner, gauging the current climate versus what can be accomplished long-term. An entrepreneur always has to be looking for new ways to accomplish his vision.
No. 4 — Extroversion and Important Characteristics of an Entrepreneur
An entrepreneur has to be a people person. Remember, an entrepreneur isn’t necessarily going to be limited to one industry. This means attending a variety of business meetings in different business sectors, in which the entrepreneur needs to be active in asking questions of colleagues, as well as conveying his passion and vision about current projects. An entrepreneur must be outgoing. He should exude confidence without arrogance — though some cockiness can be effective as well.
No. 5 — Ambition as an Important Characteristic of an Entrepreneur
Ambition ties it all together. If an entrepreneur doesn’t believe that he can do something better than what has come before, he’s not going be very effective or successful. A sense of urgency typically accompanies the ambitious feelings of an entrepreneur. A strong desire to get things done will rub off on employees and business associates.
I would love to hear some feedback/input from both Entrepreneurs and non Entrepreneurs alike.
Live your dreams!
Ken Cloutier- Business Coach and Mentor