What is an entrepreneur? Is it someone who knows how to boss people around or is it someone who is chameleon-esque in nature? An entrepreneur can see opportunities and create the relevant structures in order to pursue it. And when we are looking to develop ourselves in an entrepreneurial sense we may find that we don't have that je ne sais quoi or flair. But what does it take to sharpen your entrepreneurial senses so you can develop over the years?
Industry Experience
It is crucial to have an inherent industry experience. When you are developing yourself, there is a part of you that will learn as you go. However, you must remember that industry experience is something that you have to grab with both hands. Because industry experience is not just about what you do in relation to your business, it comprises so many different, seemingly irrelevant factors, you need to seek out opportunities in every single area. As an entrepreneur, you are investing in your business, but this means that you can start developing your business know-how in other ways. For example, you can invest in consumer brands, learn how to trade effectively, through equity crowdfunding or peer-to-peer lending, and learn how to deal with finances in a real, visceral way. This all comes with industry experience.
Shake the Ground Beneath Your Feet
Innovation and change should be a constant for any entrepreneur. If you are sitting still, you’re likely doing something wrong! While we all need to develop our skills and business gradually, there is a lot to be said for setting out new ideas and encouraging new processes. New ideas and sticking your neck out there can be anathema to a traditional entrepreneur who likes to maintain control over every little detail. Any entrepreneur needs to obtain a competitive advantage. And this can mean using potentially risky techniques to achieve specific results. While this idea of being a maverick can appeal, it is important to remember that an entrepreneur cannot always take risks. The fact of the matter is that you are using capital to gain success. Work to innovate, but always prepare.
Learn People Skills
You might think that you already have an abundance of people skills, but entrepreneurs can be loners in many ways. However, entrepreneurs are influential people, as long as they do it right. And it's essential that when you are planning your trajectory, you utilize your people skills as best as possible. Nobody likes to feel manipulated or coerced into doing something. When you are looking to motivate people, you have to learn the fine art of persuasion and remember that working with someone on a one-to-one basis and forming genuine human relationships is important.
Whether it’s learning to invest outside the business or learning to invest in yourself more, entrepreneurialism should be a lifetime focus. Developing your entrepreneurial flair is not something that will happen overnight. But if you follow a handful of essential traits, you will make positive progress.
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