Do you think you have what it takes to be an entrepreneur? Before you answer yes, check whether you have these skills. If you don’t, you know what areas you need to still work on.
Leadership
An entrepreneur is almost always a leader. Remember that being a leader is not the same as being a manager. When we think of leadership in connection with entrepreneurship we tend to think of charismatic individuals like Steve Jobs. This gives us the impression that you have to be a special kind of person born into the role, but anyone can become a leader. You have to find your own leadership style and develop the right habits and mindset.
Emotional intelligence
Entrepreneurship is not just about selling an idea. You will need to convince others of your idea, communicate its value and work with a team. What this means is that at some point during your venture you will be working alongside other people. A little bit of emotional intelligence will go a long way.
General business acumen
It is often said that you can’t study to be an entrepreneur and that is pretty much correct. You can technically quit school at 17 to start your first company. That being said, don’t think that this is generally how it is done. Successful entrepreneurs usually have solid training in business and years of experience in the working world before going off to make it on their own. There are many good business schools in Johannesburg and the rest of South Africa that can give you the solid foundation in business you need.
Determination
If you are set on this path you are likely going to have many sleepless nights. There may be times when you wonder how you are going to pay rent or put food on the table. People might not understand or support your vision. There could be one of any number of hurdles and setbacks so you will need the tenacity to keep on your path.
This last skill may be the most important one of all to cultivate. If you have enough drive and determination that will help you make up for any other skill you are lacking. That doesn’t mean you don’t need to work on any skills besides determination, but that with enough determination you will make sure you are equipped with all the knowledge and skill you need to make your dreams happen.