Person-treneurship

Growing up, much to my parent’s dismay, I realized that my career aspirations did not involve becoming a doctor or a rocket scientist but rather a business strategist.  Particularly of interest to me was how for-profit practices could be used to solve the poverty issue.   Like all of you entrepreneurs, I am looking for ways to add value to the existing framework rather than disappear in the status quo.  However to do this, I need to first define my core capabilities, vision, and brand.  Or, simply put, become my own business with the product being ME – essentially a PERSON-trepreneur (yes I made that up).  If I don’t understand my own strengths and weaknesses and be able to define what I want to do and why, then how could I do the same sort of evaluation for my business.

I had a taste of this PERSON-treneurship recently when I was applying to MBA programs.  The process was very similar to starting a new venture.  First, I needed to do my market research, identifying what schools fit my needs and I theirs.   Second, like in a business plan, I had to define my core competencies, vision, and brand clearly in my applications to the schools.  Third, as entrepreneurs need to articulate their product/service to banks to get funding, I needed to sell myself to my interviewer. Of course, to do this well, I really needed to have a sound understanding of (1) What was important to the interviewer? (2) Why is it important to them?  (3) Could I support my claims?  Fourth, basking in the glory when you get accepted (...if you do steps 1 – 3 well).  Fifth, figuring out how I am going to maximize my resources to achieve my vision...this is too good of a segue to my next blog that I have to stop writing...so check back on how to best leverage your resources (human, capital, etc.).  Additionally, if you’re curious to learn more about the resources and funding available for entrepreneurs in Ontario, please check out the following link.