In the past couple of years, I've met a large number of business owners and entrepreneurs from various industries (hosting, travel, satellite, and so on).

While everybody was very different, I noticed that all of them have this strange quality about themselves - they always appear enthusiatic; they act nice and professionally (not everyone, but the majority) towards others; and they are the kind of people with whom it's just easy to talk with.

This brings me to another question - what other characteristics do entrepreneurs (in general and specifically) possess? Is it, in any way, related to the success or failure of their business ventures?

Boris

1) Enthusiastic
2) Risk Takers
3) Self-Motivated
4) Hard Worker
5) Positive Attitude

and normally in need for money ;)

also

- innovative/creative
- addaptive
- expansive

And don't forget Tired!

In addition, usually very cautious when releasing some cash.

Being faily new to the game, I usually find myself wanting to know every bit of detail before I let go of my hard earned money.

9. Never say die attitude
10. Motivation to make it big
11. Risk taker
12. Someone who understands that sometimes cash flow is more important than profit.

Always looking for challenge and opportunity

lots of stress

Originally posted by ajitknox
9. Never say die attitude
10. Motivation to make it big
11. Risk taker
12. Someone who understands that sometimes cash flow is more important than profit.

Can you elaborate on #12?

Boris

sticking with it is the biggest thing ie determination, too many people find it too hard after a while and give up, i come from new zealand where something like 1 in 4 people is an entrepreneur great business atmosphere here:D

I was about to ask the very same question on #12, Boris. :)

I'd add tenacity to the list as well. Most of the successful entreprenuers that I've worked with have the tenacity to work through challenges & obstacles to reach their objectives.

A new business is usually an uphill battle for quite some time before you get over the hump and then start cruising at full speed down the hill on the other side.

And always remember, a successful entreprenuer is usually someone who ends up being an "overnight success" - after years of hard work! ;)

Most of the characteristics are already been covered but one thing that i noticed about every successful entrepreneur I met is their uncanny ability to spot the opportunity and act upon it. Even in my views no one can make it BIG until he knows how to exploit the opportunity. Only tons of money and 18 hours of work can built a business.

Correction to the last line: “Only tons of money and 18 hours of work can not build a business.”

Originally posted by UDS
Only tons of money and 18 hours of work can built a business.

Oh yes, you can. You buy other business that has spotted the opportunity you did not :)

Guys,
I will post the importance of cash flow in a new thread later tonite.
Thanks

Originally posted by FHDave
Oh yes, you can. You buy other business that has spotted the opportunity you did not :)

That's not building a business, that's aquiring a business.

Looking for investors willing to invest into a book called "100 easy and quick ways to become a millionaire" :) and/or "How to become a millionaire in only 347 years"

Anybody?

RE: #12.

Cash flow is often more important than profit.

In a nutshell, cashflow will prolong your business, whether cashed profit is there at all times or not.

A constant cash-flow will steadily increase in depth, thus leading to a profitable business at a point in the future.

Cash flow defined:
'All roads lead to Rome.' ;)

Simon