ARE ENTREPRENEURS MADE OR BORN?

Entrepreneurs are the individuals who take the risks and build the enterprises that employ people,

bring innovation and new products to the economy, and serve as an incentive for others to try

their luck and become a success.

Studies of entrepreneurs indicate that individuals whose parents are self-employed are more

likely to start their own businesses than individuals born into other families. This leads to some

conclusion that entrepreneurs are born, not made. However, another possible conclusion is that

these entrepreneurs are influenced by their family environment. Even though heredity is

important in establishing basic entrepreneurial traits, the influences of environment cannot be

dismissed. These two factors often work together in shaping a future entrepreneur. All

entrepreneurs share a vision for the future and the willingness to take the risk of starting a

venture. They are nurtured to realize their own potential. In addition to their in-born

characteristics, there are important entrepreneurial skills that can be learned. These include the

ability to see and articulate a vision, as well as to build and motivate a team. Characteristics of

entrepreneurs which contribute to their innovation, determination and success are;

Need for achievement. People with high needs for achievement value achievement more than

they value power or affiliation.

Desires for autonomy .Individuals with a high level of independence believe they are capable of

attaining a goal.

Tolerance to ambiguity. Entrepreneurs are more likely than others to accept uncertainty. With

the right skills and the right attitude, people with ambition and ideas can go far. And paths to

success are as individual as the entrepreneurs who make the journey.