Do You Have What it Takes to Run a Business? Aug 5th, 2007 by Leonid Shalimov People are different, that’s what makes economy and the business market so great and vast. However with this fact comes the unobtrusive reality that not everyone has the essential skills to run a successful business. Of course anyone can learn how to be a better business owner but foundational skills and know-how still need to be present. Step in front of the mirror and take a long clear look at yourself. Evaluate your skill set and know your strengths (as well as your weaknesses). Don’t jump in the pool if you don’t know how to swim. You’ll need to know the risks before you devote time and money to your business. Here is a list of what I think are absolutely necessary skills & traits to have before starting a business. 1. Self Confidence If you don’t have faith in yourself then why should your customers? Be up-front and dedicated to your decisions. Don’t be afraid to take risks. Believe in yourself. 2. Honesty Scam artists and liars are looked down upon. If you want a successful business, you’re going to need a great reputation (unless of course your business is built upon the opposite, depending on your business plan). Your customers will appreciate the fact that you aren’t hiding anything in the small print. 3. Knowledge A good head on your shoulders can take you a long way. The CEO’s of all the big companies and start-ups are highly intelligent and for the obvious reason of course. Take the time to study, read and learn the in’s and out’s of your business. Don’t be afraid to ask yourself: what if? Knowledge is power. 4. Organization Sloppy just doesn’t cut it, especially if you want to seem professional to your customers, associates and business acquaintances. 5. Creativity I’ve said this through-out most of my articles. Be creative. Repeating and rinsing out something someone else has done a number of times is boring and dull. Bring in business by being the first, not the middle of the pack.
aletheides put it pretty well. Action is key, a lot of people (including me some times) plan way to much, instead of actually doing something. Some good 5 tips there anyway.Green
Good article. The only thing I would add is, if you don't have these traits yourself, hire people who do. Not everybody is going to have "all" the good traits it takes to be successful. Remember.... Presidents have speech writers, Actors have people who dress them, etc.......
How about thief? I didnt see that anywhere in the list Many big sites you see today started by someone stealing an idea, content, etc... Yes, true...