Operations and growth

7 traits of successful business owners

Director of Marketing, Paid and Social Media, Visa

New business owners face constant challenges. Learn the attributes of successful entrepreneurs to stay motivated and navigate to success.

1. See the big picture

Many new business owners get caught up in the present. They are focused on navigating the problems that arise each day. However, successful business owners focus on the future. It is key to see the "big picture" and remain on a path that keeps a company meeting long-term goals. The market moves quickly, so it is essential to stay true to your vision and map out a road that gets the job done for tomorrow and beyond.

2. Experience failure and move on

Failure is an inevitable part of life. However, the way a person handles setbacks can have a profound effect on their business. A successful business owner works to understand the reason for the setback and understand how to avoid similar setbacks in the future so that when the next opportunity pops up the business will be well-positioned to achieve a positive outcome.

3. Take risks

Taking risks may seem scary, but it extends the possibility of achieving success. A strong business owner assesses a situation and tries something that has the potential to maximize success without causing unnecessary jeopardy.

Mark Pincus, founder of the gaming company Zynga, walked away from a guaranteed source of funding for his first venture. Despite being short on cash, he decided against the deal, which did not fit with his vision. Not accepting the investment was a worthwhile and successful risk. Pincus secured money from a different source, remained in control, and eventually sold the company, which allowed him to establish Zynga.

4. Hire people who are better than you

Winning business owners understand the importance of surrounding themselves with smart people. Learning to work effectively with others and use their strengths will help you gain success. For instance, if you develop a message that must be presented to the public but have poor social media skills, it might be wise to hire a person who knows the ins and outs of these platforms. A solid company has a team with various abilities and employees who unite their talents to form a powerhouse.

5. Find trusted partners

Partnering with trusted companies can help business owners run their business smoothly and effectively by taking the daily minutiae off their plates so they can focus on growing the business. Partnering with Authorize.net means business owners do not have to worry about how to accept payments from customers. From marketing needs to shipping products to customers, Authorize.net has a partner directory to help business owners find the right partners for their business needs.

6. Have a competitive spirit

A strong business owner usually has a competitive spirit and enjoys winning. Since starting a business is a big challenge, it is the perfect way to harness this energy. A competitive spirit is essential to win customers and increase market share.

7. Help others

Leaders of successful businesses recognize the importance of networking. They share useful information, help finish tasks and present opportunities to colleagues.

Conclusion

Beginning a new business is not easy, so it is important to examine the traits of successful business owners. Although these qualities do not ensure success, they can help provide a better chance of growing a business and enjoying prosperity. Successful owners know that the right partnerships matter. If you are evaluating your tech stack, here are five ways to tell if Authorize.net is right for you.

Disclaimer: Case studies, comparisons, statistics, research, and recommendations are provided “AS IS” and intended for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon for operational, marketing, legal, technical, tax, financial or other advice. Visa neither makes any warranty or representation as to the completeness or accuracy of the information within this document, nor assumes any liability or responsibility that may result from reliance on such information. The information contained herein is not intended as investment or legal advice, and readers are encouraged to seek the advice of a competent professional where such advice is required.

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