I recently had the opportunity to present a webinar in which I reviewed the differences and overlap between leadership and entrepreneurship. One of the character traits I explored was that many entrepreneurs are motivated self-starters. They have a robust work ethic and a deep passion for their dream. Some of the character traits that we explored for inspiring leaders was that they are courageous, empowering, and authentic.
I would like to consider two overlapping characteristic traits and explore their role in both leadership and entrepreneurship.
“Entrepreneurial leadership is a mindset that focuses organizations on turning problems into opportunities that create economic and social values.” – Stephen Spinelli
Common trait #1: Creativity
The predominant thinking is that entrepreneurs are creative. They embrace creativity in pursuit of their dream. This is fuelled by the belief that their dream is to create something new and when that happens, it supports that belief. They are seen as persons thinking outside the box.
On the other hand, the predominant thinking is that leadership generally does not require creativity. Many effective leaders are seen as persons building effectiveness inside the box.
Consider this: Is there more creativity by thinking outside the box or is there just as much creativity by thinking inside the box, within the constraints posed by business or corporate limitations?
In my experience, creativity is needed to not only create something new (such as a product, app or game) but also needed to inspire or ignite a passion buried deep within someone. We often associate creativity with the ability to see potential in a situation but creative leadership might also be the ability to see potential in a person and more than this; to call out that potential within the context of the organization.
“The most effective leaders realize that, to keep improving, they must think of themselves as both teacher and student.” – Rich Sheridan
Common trait #2: Eagerness to Learn
The predominant thinking is that entrepreneurs are eager to learn. They embrace the need to learn in pursuit of their dream. Successful entrepreneurs are able to sort through information and apply what they believe supports the development of the dream.
On the other hand, the predominant thinking is that learning is less important in leadership. This is fuelled by the fact that leaders often focus their efforts on developing soft skills (abilities not unique to any job) rather than the teachable and measurable abilities we call hard skills.
As entrepreneurs or leaders, we may not always see the need to learn new things but we should never assume that we know everything that is needed to complete the job.
What I have learned from researching the common character traits of entrepreneurs and the skills of an inspiring leader, there are many situations where both are needed to fulfill a dream.
The plethora of “personal inventory” programs designed for leaders (Lumina Spark, DISC, Meyers-Briggs, etc.) is clear testament to this; tending to focus on character trait assessment and which traits leaders should work to develop. These programs implicitly assume there’s always something more to learn, some specific trait to further develop which is precisely the point.
Should you need assistance in selecting a personal inventory program, please reach out to me.
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