As an entrepreneur, I can move and decide quickly, much faster than I did during my corporate life. The buck stops with me as I am responsible for the implications of major decisions.
However; when I started the company, my decision-making was slower and less effective than it is now. Why? First, I did not have the confidence; and secondly, I have a much stronger network to access for help. So, I am less afraid and can get help when I don’t know the answers – comfortable in being able to say I don’t know.
The irony is, I often had that opportunity when I was in my corporate roles. I needed a different mindset –I needed a way to open my mind!
Not too long ago, I was working with a mid-size company. While conducting interviews with the senior leadership team, I heard the leader of the organization say, “We need to think more like a start-up. I want to create a culture where we all have the mindset of entrepreneurs.”
Well it is a mindset; but it is much more than that. It is only a starting point. Being a successful entrepreneur for over 10 years has taught me that. I have worked with some very talented people spanning over 40 different organizations. Yes, much is about my mindset; but, it also about relationships, discipline and structure. Here are my top 10 entrepreneur principles (in no order)
- I love what I do – there is passion, I am continuously learning, and invest in getting better
- Relationship and trust are king – Never stop building – people know I really care
- I am free to call anyone — for insight and help (titles make no difference)
- Strategy is also execution –– I am an expert on how to quickly assess, act, and measure impact
- I don’t have a lot of my own “resources” – that speeds things up
- I don’t take it personally — people are busy
- Mistakes happen, I fail constantly because I am trying – yet, I move on
- Things are in my control and out of my control – I know the difference
- Rewards: & Recognition If I do not serve the customer and add value, I don’t eat
- I am always marketing — I am the brand and I protect my equity
What can you do? No matter how large the organization, we can start with ourselves. First, commit to trying one of these principles; and, secondly ask a trusted advisor to hold you accountable. Try it for 30 days and keep a record of what you are experiencing. You may notice a behavior change? You are the owner – it is your business!
I would love to hear from you and can be reached at pbutler@globaledg.com
Think-to-Win Unleashing the Power of Strategic Thinking, McGraw-Hill 2015 www.globaledg.com