Become an Entrepreneur Within the Workplace
An entrepreneur is defined as an individual who takes the risks associated with establishing a new business and who also takes advantage of opportunities whilst being responsible for the risks which may be associated with this. Arguably, the notion of entrepreneurship may not be just confined to the standard definition cited in much of the existing literature, but may also reflect someone who takes advantage of opportunities within the workplace. Thus, this article looks to establish how you can harness some of the traits of an entrepreneur within the workplace in order to hopefully enhance your future job prospects.
Steps
- Understanding your own strengths and weaknesses. There are numerous personality traits which an entrepreneur may exhibit, these include: confidence, passion, resilience and vision to take advantage of opportunities and being responsible for the risks which may be associated with this (e.g. new opportunities within the workplace such being responsible for a budget). However, this is not an exhaustive list with entrepreneurs also exhibiting various other traits which sadly goes beyond the scope of this article including a strong sales ability and tenacity.
- Nevertheless, there is one key trait which arguably may distinguish between entrepreneurs who are successful and ones who sadly meet their demise. Doubtless, the former is what this article wishes to encourage as opposed to the latter. This is because retrospective analysis of failure is seldom a comfortable prospect, but is ever so present in today's competitive landscape.
- The key trait is 'self awareness' - having the ability to take an objective view about your own strengths and weakness could be key in being able to develop into a successful entrepreneur within the workplace. This is because being able to recognise your weaknesses could allow you to develop those areas in order to strengthen your skill set. Prima facia, this may seem simple but can be difficult for many to take an honest self reflection of their own ability. In doing this effectively, you are ready for step two.
- Take on the opportunities which come your way. Within the workplace you may be faced with a number of challenges and opportunities which could allow you to effectively use your strengths to establish positive results. Through successfully completing step one you are now in a strong position to be able to assess whether you are able to effectively take on the opportunities/challenges and the risks associated with this (i.e. job security, reputation) which the workplace may throw at you, and also whether you may require additional training or support from other members of staff to counter your weaknesses in order to fully take advantage of the opportunities and challenges you wish to face (i.e. meeting a target). This reflects the notion of 'calculated risk taking' and 'self awareness' which both are characteristics of an entrepreneur.
- Be adaptable. In taking on the challenges within the workplace this shows you can be adaptable. Use your position within an organisation as an opportunity to be able to gain new skills and test your knowledge. Additionally, look to take time in observing others within the workplace and ask questions. This will also allow you to develop new capabilities and turn those weaknesses identified in step one into strengths. Furthermore, never be afraid to explore other roles within the company and to explore other co workers perspectives, as it is this experience which will allow you to gain new skills.
- Establish a strong brand. In order to be successful within your career and to convey to others as being entrepreneurial its important to manage your identity within the workplace as this will be critical to your career progression. There are a number of ways in which you can create a strong brand identity such as networking which allows you to put your name out there and establish strong relationships which could be useful in achieving your future long term goals. It also provides an opportunity to showcase your resume, experience, projects, portfolio, and other assets.
- Create a strong, long lasting impact. Never be afraid to make an impact within the workplace. Look to get your voice heard. Like a true entrepreneur, take ownership of your ideas and project. Share your ideas which could potential allow you to leave a legacy and add value to your workplace.
- Always be yourself. Use what makes you unique as a platform for self development. Never be afraid to innovate within your role and to voice your own perspective. You may be able to provide a fresh insight which none of your co workers have thought of yet. Through collaboration and listening to diverse ideas and perspectives, this can be the key to being a successful entrepreneur within the workplace.
- Be ambitious. It's important that you are ambitious about your future career goals. Thus, you may wish to set yourself goals within the short, medium, and long term. As an example, this could be to reach a certain target within the following month and then to surpass that target within the month after. Remember, you can achieve absolutely anything if you work hard enough for it. You may even wish to set a goal of making enough money within your career to buy your dream car. Whatever your goals are, never let anyone ruin or try to hinder your chances at achieving the goals you have set.
- Attend networking and public speaking events. This will provide a great opportunity for you to mix with like minded entrepreneurs who can offer advice and support due to their extensive amount of knowledge and experience which you can learn from. You will also have the chance to ask them any questions that you may have about being an entrepreneur within the workplace which you can use as a platform for gaining new skills.
