Knowing yourself

There have been many studies during the past few years that have attempted to identify the characteristics of successful entrepreneurs. On such study compared many of the lists already developed. Those characteristics common to all or most of the lists indicated that an entrepreneur tends to have the following characteristics:

· High level of physical energy

· Ability to set clear goals and plans to reach goals

· Strong positive attitudes

· High levels of moral strength

· Willingness to take chances

· Industrious – need to be always working at something

· Takes the initiative in starting work

· High level of reasoning ability

· Able to make decisions

· Willing to lead others

· Organized

· Positive attitude towards others

· Uses time effectively

· Willing and eager to learn

· Desire to satisfy the needs of others

· Able to change and adapt to changing environment

· Able to seek and find information needed to achieve their goals

· Avoids procrastination

· Have a determined persistence

· Informed about latest trends and needs

· Willing to take responsibility

· Knows how to manage money

· Able to motivate others

· Always looking for opportunities

· Willing to recognize and reward contributions of others

· Restless eager to do something new

· Learns from failure and moves on.

Obviously not all entrepreneurs are alike, but based on a variety of studies most of the successful ones have the above characteristics.

Questions:

1. What characteristics do you find absolutely necessary for every manager?

2. Which of them are inborn and which ones can be acquired?

3. What are of primary importance?

4. Do you possess them?

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