Are You an
Entrepreneur?
Ever wonder if you have the stuff to succeed in your own business?
To find out, take this eye opening test developed by Northwestern Mutual
Life Insurance Company. It is based upon studies that reveal common
characteristics among entrepreneurs.
The test cannot predict your success, but it can give you an idea
of your potential -- and help you decide whether you really want to take
the leap and open your own business!
As you take this test, add and subtract your score. Then check
your total at the end to see whether you fit the entrepreneur profile.
-
Significantly high number of entrepreneurs (45%) are children of first generation
Americans. If your parents were immigrants, give yourself 1 point.
If not, subtract 1 point.
-
Successful entrepreneurs were not , as a rule, top achievers in school. If
you were a top student subtract 4. If not, add 4.
-
Entrepreneurs were not, as a rule, enthusiastic about participating in group
activities in school. If you enjoyed group activities like school clubs,
team sports or double dates, subtract 1. If not, add 1.
-
Entrepreneurs often prefer to be alone as youngsters. Did you? If yes
add 1. If not subtract1.
-
Those who started childhood enterprises or ran for office at school can add
2 because ambition can usually be traced to an early age. Those who
didn't start childhood businesses should subtract 2.
-
Stubbornness as a child seems to translate into determination to do things
one's own way -- a hallmark of entrepreneurs. If you were a stubborn
child add 1. If not subtract 1.
-
Unwillingness to take risks can handicap those headed for uncharted waters.
Were you a cautious youngster? If yes, subtract 4. If no, add
4.
-
If you were daring add 4 more.
-
Entrepreneurs often pursue different paths regardless of what others think.
If the opinion of others matters a lot to you, subtract 1. If
they don't, add1.
-
Entrepreneurs often start a business because they're tired of daily routine.
If that's your motivation, add 2. If not, subtract 2.
-
If you really enjoy work, are you willing to work overnight? If yes
add 2. If no subtract 6.
-
If you'd be willing to work "as long as it takes" with little or no sleep
to finish a job, add 4 more.
-
Entrepreneurs generally enjoy their work so much that they move non-stop
from one project to another. When you complete a project successfully,
do you immediately start another? If yes, add 2. If no, subtract 2.
-
Successful entrepreneurs are willing to use their savings at the outset of
a project. If you'd be willing to spend your money to start a business
add 2. If not, subtract 2.
-
If you'd be willing to borrow from others too, add 2 more. If not,
subtract 2.
-
If your business fails, will you immediately work to start another? If
yes, add 4. If no, subtract 4.
-
If you'd immediately start seeking a good paying job, subtract 1 more.
-
Do you believe entrepreneurs are "risky"? If yes, subtract 3. If
no, add 2.
-
Many entrepreneurs put long-term and short-term goals in writing. If
you do, add 1. If you don't, subtract 1.
-
Handling cash flow cab be critical to success in your own business. If
you believe you have more knowledge and experience with cash flow than most
people, add 2. If not, subtract 2.
-
Entrepreneurial personalities seem easily bored. If that describes you, add
2. If not, subtract 2.
Scores
35 or more: You have everything going for you and ought to achieve
spectacular entrepreneurial success -- unless you're stopped by things beyond
your control.
15 to 35: Your background, skills, and talents give you an excellent
chance for success in your own business.
0 to 15: You ought to be successful in a business of your own
if you apply yourself and learn the necessary skills.
0 to -15: You might be able to make a go of it on your
own, but you would have to work extra hard to make up for a lack of built-in
advantages and skills that give other entrepreneurs a head start.
-15 to -43: Is building your own business really what you
want to do? Your talents probably lie elsewhere and you may be happier
if you are working for somebody else.
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