Some people in specific professions seem destined for executive roles. They seem to possess an indefinable quality that gives credence to the idea that they are destined to carve out a highly successful career and rise to the top of their peers, like the proverbial cream.
During company meetings, sales pitches, and networking opportunities, these potential future business leaders shine without appearing to make an effort. They also often appear to combine charm with a truly ruthless streak in their behaviour. Their shoulders, which are perfectly shaped to go with business attire, and their walk, which gives off the impression that they are on their way to deftly solving yet another arete syndicate business crisis, allow us to spot them from a mile away.
But can we pin down the precise traits that set the elite apart from the rest of society? What are the specific skills that employers and boards of directors are looking for in new hires so that they can reap financial benefits from them?
When it comes to what makes a good business leader or entrepreneur, there are a lot of conflicting opinions. It’s possible to find conflicting advice about what makes a good leader, with some sources emphasising the importance of trusting one’s gut while others emphasising the value of careful planning.
There will never be a surefire formula for becoming a successful entrepreneur. When analysing the traits of successful business minds, however, it does appear that there are several traits that the vast majority, if not all, successful business minds seem to share.
Capacity for taking calculated risks
“Nothing ventured, nothing gained” seems to be the guiding philosophy of prosperous business owners. The world’s brightest business minds have taken a chance on a potentially disastrous strategy to take their company global. The world’s most successful businesspeople have shown that taking risks requires intelligence, courage, and not a little bit of luck, but the rewards can be substantial.
Richard Branson is widely regarded as one of the most daring and innovative businesspeople on the planet. His famous company, Virgin, has certainly explored some uncharted and wholly unexpected territory over the course of its history. The success of Virgin in many different fields, such as retail, communications, and music production, can be traced back to the founder’s willingness to take calculated risks.
Determination
Having a lot of determination is something that all of the most successful business leaders have in abundant supply, despite the fact that it may seem like a flimsy justification for entrepreneurial success. Many people would be put off by the challenges of starting a business from scratch; consequently, those who do take the plunge and do so successfully are typically the most dogged and persistent of individuals.
Think of Michael Dell as an example. The founder of the now-globalized technology company bearing his name, Michael Dell, came from very modest beginnings but showed extraordinary determination on his way to becoming successful and giving the company his name. Dell owes his multibillion dollar fortune to nothing more than his own dogged persistence and drive.
Entrepreneurs give the impression that they are always on top of their game, but like the rest of us, they need to constantly learn, adapt, and develop their abilities. CEOs are responsible for keeping abreast of developments in their pitch, but only those with a thirst for knowledge and an aptitude for improvement will be able to stay ahead of the competition.
