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Section 1.2 Becoming an Entrepreneur
Skills of Successful Entrepreneurs
What are your talents? Are you a good storyteller or can you fix
things without having to follow instructions? Are you a good artist,
a great cook, or a talented debater? These skills can help you build
your own company. As an artist, you might decide to open a graphic
illustration firm, design your own line of clothing, or sell art in your
own gallery. As a cook, you could start a restaurant, a pastry shop,
or an online candy company. As a debater, you might decide to open
your own law firm or become an independent political consultant.
The list of effective entrepreneurship skills is endless, but there
are some skills that every good leader must possess. These skills are
discussed in the following sections.
Interpersonal Skills
Have you heard the phrase people skills? People skills are
interpersonal skills—ones you use to communicate with those around
you. Effective leaders have good listening and communication skills,
as well as the ability to work well with people to get the job done.
Problem-Solving Skills
Leaders have many challenges that require negotiation as well as
problem-solving skills. Daily business activities require the ability to
take charge and keep things running smoothly.
Business Skills
In order to run a business, it is important for a leader to have basic
business skills. Basic record-keeping skills, business-letter writing
skills, and math skills are just some of the business skills important for
an entrepreneur to master.
Planning Skills
Effective leaders know how to create a plan and engage others
to follow a plan and get the job done. Planning skills are critical to
entrepreneurs.
Leadership Skills
Entrepreneurs take responsibility for leading the business and
their teams. Owners with good leadership skills have the ability to
support team members and grow the business.
The SBA recommends
that entrepreneurs
consult with a mentor
when starting a
business. A mentor
is an experienced,
successful business
person who is willing
to provide advice and
guidance—for no
personal gain. The SBA
can provide names of
government-sponsored
mentor organizations
that provide resources
both online and locally.
www.sba.gov
SBA Tips