Who is an entrepreneur?

Entrepreneurs are innovative individuals who recognize opportunities and go after them making full use of energy and desire to boost profit making. They are eager for change within the marketplace. They are like Olympic athletes challenging themselves to break new barriers or long-distance runners dealing with the agony of the miles.

Characteristics of successful entrepreneurs

A review of the literature related to entrepreneurial characteristics reveals the existence of a large number of factors that can be consolidated into a much smaller set of profile dimensions. For example, the following is one list of common characteristics that has been compiled:

• Total commitment, determination, and perseverance
• Drive to achieve and grow
• Opportunity and goal orientation
• Taking initiative and personal responsibility
• Persistent problem-solving
• Realism and a sense of humor
• Seeking and using feedback
• Internal locus of control
• Calculated risk taking and risk seeking
• Low need for status and power
• Integrity and reliability