4 Traits of Successful Solopreneurs
The traditional career path is dying. Gone are the days of getting a degree, starting at an entry level position, and steadily working your way up the company ladder. While there are still some fields where this path is prevalent, top performers at many of the largest companies around the world are rejecting the idea of “waiting their turn” or “paying their dues.” Instead, they leverage their skills in areas they excel in and turn that into a practice that lets them be their own boss. These solopreneurs, numbering among the 18 million independent workers in the U.S. alone according to the Harvard Business Review, fill a niche in the market that makes them able to work for many companies while making their own hours and more importantly, their own rates.
So what does it take to be a solopreneur? We want to highlight four key traits that we see in these talented individuals that you can focus on developing regardless of age or stage in your career.
Solopreneurs are Passionate
Heavyweight champion Evander Holyfied said “It is not the size of a man, but the size of his heart that matters.” So it is with solopreneurs. Do what you love, and do it wholeheartedly. Solopreneurs set goals and make plans around what you want to accomplish in your life and build your work life then enthusiastically pursue them. The passion you bring to your solution and skillset will make you an invaluable asset to any organization you work with. It will show in the time and attention you give your projects, along with the care you give each individual client you meet. Your passion will determine how you overcome obstacles, deal with rejection, and navigate uncertainty that come with your endeavor.
Solopreneurs are Experts At Networking
The people in your circle can make or break your success. As you begin your solopreneur journey, take stock of your network to determine which relationships are building you up or tearing you down. Make connections with other solopreneurs to establish a cadence of sharing, soliciting information, and gaining advice on how to grow your skills. This will not only help you keep on top of developing trends, but will give you a place to refine your voice and build a positive energy that will make you more attractive to clients and become a true thought leader in your space. Focus on building your list of connections, establish a process for how you work that list, and repeat. As you share your ideas, pitch your product, and seek to make sales, you will get rejected. Be prepared to get up, try again, and learn from every interaction.
Solopreneurs are Creative
As the owner, operator, and only employee of your business, you have to find ways to make it all work. This will take you down unconventional paths and push you to the brink of your intellectual and tactical capabilities, but your success will be the reward for your creativity. Here are some things to consider when you develop your solution and creatively think about how you can solve your clients’ problems:
Consider the tools and systems you need to work effectively, and seek out free or low-cost options to get it done.
Manage your time wisely, including taking time to take a step back and look at business from new perspectives.
Seek new, authentic ways to get in front of potential clients and grab their attention.
Make a budget that accounts for everything you need to operate your business but also gives you some flexibility to experiment.
Creativity can be uncomfortable, but we don’t experience growth from that discomfort comes the growth. Find strategic ways to break the mold and your audience will reward you for your efforts.
Mentorship
The growth of your business is limited only by your personal growth. Choose a mentor who emulates the traits you wish to develop in yourself. Take the time to recruit a mentor or coach who will help you make goals and keep you accountable to them. Having a good mentor will help you:
Look at data in ways that will help your business grow
Understand gaps in your knowledge and skill set
Keep balance in your life and evaluate your happiness
Be your cheerleader and emotional support
When you recruit a mentor you are really investing in yourself and in your business. The advice they give will come from an honest place that has your best interest at heart. Follow their counsel and strive to improve yourself, and your business (and you) will reap the benefits. Your mentors will become your personal board of directors. They can help you with strategy, operate as a sounding board, and provide inspiration for the next iteration of your product.
If you are ready or wanting to take the leap into the exciting world of solopreneurship, let’s talk about how you can get started and where we can help you on your journey to new heights and complete career fulfillment.
