The Entrepreneurial Edge
Just because you're not an entrepreneur at heart, doesn't mean you can't have a successful business.
Q: I'm not an entrepreneur by nature. Will this
prevent me from being a successful business owner?
A: Self-employment or independent careers are often
lumped into the same category as entrepreneurship. But one thing
we've learned from interviewing thousands of people over the
years is that many people who are happy and successful in their own
businesses do not fit the classic entrepreneurial mold.
We call these many successful individuals
"propreneurs." Compared to entrepreneurs, they are less
interested in the "business of business" and more
interested in finding meaning in their careers and controlling
their time, the kind of work they do and the manner in which they
do it.
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The key to succeeding as a propreneur lies in treating your
business in a way that leaves you free to pursue the work you do
best. That means you will need to:
- Have a professional attitude. Take the legal steps to
form your business, open a business bank account, launch a website,
and so on.
- Get business coming to you. Learn to attract customers
in ways that come naturally and comfortably to you. Give away
samples, offer free consultations, or use publicity.
- Have a positive relationship with money. Become
comfortable talking openly about money. Figure out what you need to
charge and when you expect to be paid, get clear financial
agreements, and follow up immediately to collect the money
you're due.
- Set up a support network. Line up a support team of
professionals (such as a lawyer and a tax professional) you can
turn to for advice and assistance.
Authors and career coaches Paul and Sarah
Edwards' new book is The Best Home Businesses for People 50+.