Written by Stacy Swift
What Are 7 Traits of an Entrepeneur?
It is the end of a long day at work. Your cubicle walls are closing in on you as you watch the clock, waiting for 5pm. Just then, your boss drops a stack of paperwork on your desk that needs to be finished by close. It is just about that time when you close your eyes and dream of being your own boss.
But what you are really dreaming of is being an entrepreneur.
What is an entrepreneur? Entrepreneurs keep the country running. They start the businesses that keep people employed, serve the community, and boost the economy. They are a hearty breed that never watches a clock, keep thinking of new ideas that will boost their businesses, and go to sleep every night with a feeling of satisfaction.
Are you an entrepreneur?
Owning a business, whether by starting one from scratch or going the much easier path of buying a franchise business, is not for everyone. There is a lot to consider. But for the entrepreneur, it is a way of life.
We have come up with seven traits that make an entrepreneur. While you may not have all of these, having some of them is an excellent start on the path to becoming your own boss!
1. Foresight
The ability to plan is a huge trait of successful entrepreneurs. You need to prepare for what is coming up…trends, good times and bad times, dips in the economy, and unforeseen disasters (such as the COVID virus). Having plans in place is a must.
2. A Love for Hard Work
If you cannot see yourself digging into your business, helping to build it through grit, determination, and long hours, starting your own business may not be for you. But if you are OK doing the work that needs to be done, then that is half the battle!
3. Willingness to Learn
A successful person is one that is always learning. Reading, taking classes, joining accountability groups, listening to others…these are all things that will take you to the next level and beyond.
4. Ability to Handle Mistakes
Mistakes happen. Big and small. You will make them. Your employees will make them. Vendors will make them. It is part of doing business. The key is to not let a mistake destroy you. Learn to cope and keep moving forward.
5. Willingness to Delegate
Most entrepreneurs are A-Type personalities and feel a tremendous urge to control and micromanage everything. You will have to learn to let go. Hire people to do the things that will keep you from the focus of running your business. These would be accountants, marketing experts, etc. Remember…you can not be an expert at everything!
6. Willingness to Listen to Your Customers
The best feedback you will ever get is from the people you serve: your customers. If you listen to what they are saying whether by word of mouth or on social media, you will learn everything you need to know to adjust in your business.
7. Invest in Yourself
You are your most important asset. Stay healthy. Keep educating yourself. Find times to relax and unwind. And treat the people around you, friends, and family, like they are the most important people in the world. Because they are.
There are certainly more traits we can add, but start with these seven, and you will be well on your way to becoming a successful entrepreneur!
Franchise Matchmakers is a team of franchising professionals that are dedicated to helping people explore business ownership as a career path. Contact us HERE to find out more about franchising options that may suit you.
