Entrepreneur
Job Description:Entrepreneurs build a business, company, or organisation on their own initiative.
Job Category:What you will do:
As an entrepreneur, your day-to-day duties could include any and all of the following:
- coming up with ideas for how to develop your product or business
- presenting pitches to potential investors or buyers
- developing the sales strategy of your business
- leading the marketing and communications strategy, like advertising, social media, and press opportunities
- managing budgets, creating projections, and completing financial reports
- interviewing, recruiting, and training the staff needed to run your business
- meeting with investors, clients, or colleagues to discuss shared projects or conduct research
Skills:
You’ll need:
- business management skills
- to be good with numbers
- financial management skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- strong leadership skills
- good organisation and time management skills
- written and spoken communication skills
- the ability to take responsibility when needed
- the desire to aim high and plan for success (ambition)
- have a clear vision and the willingness to take calculated risks
Entry Requirements:
There are no set entry requirements to become an Entrepreneur, as it relies on your own vision. However, it can help to get experience in the different business areas you’ll be taking on from the start, like
- business skills or,
- marketing
- financial management
To get this, you could contact employers to ask about internships, work experience, or placements in industries you are passionate about. Or you can take a part-time course which you could fit around other work or studies. For example, you could explore courses in subjects like:
- communications
- budgeting
- project management
- business studies
- finance
School Subjects
Becoming an entrepreneur doesn’t require specific GCSE subjects, as entrepreneurship is more about creativity, innovation, and business acumen than formal academic qualifications. However, certain GCSE subjects can provide a foundation of knowledge and skills that may be beneficial in an entrepreneurial journey, such as:
- Business Studies: This subject provides insights into various aspects of running a business, such as marketing, finance, human resources, and business planning.
- Mathematics: Basic math skills are essential for managing finances, budgets, and understanding financial statements.
- English Language: Strong communication and writing skills are crucial for networking, pitching ideas, and building relationships with customers and investors.
- Information Technology (IT) / Computer Science: Familiarity with technology and digital tools is becoming increasingly important for businesses to stay competitive and reach customers online.
- Economics: Understanding economic principles can help in analyzing market trends, demand, and supply dynamics.
- Design and Technology: This subject can foster creativity and problem-solving skills, which are valuable traits for entrepreneurs.
While GCSE subjects provide a foundation, entrepreneurship is largely about taking initiative, being self-motivated, and continuously learning and adapting. Real-world experience, networking, mentorship, and developing a strong business idea are equally important factors for success as an entrepreneur.
Working Hours and Environment:
In the beginning, you may have to work long hours and have an irregular work schedule, so it’s vital that you’re able to manage your own time and tasks and work well on your own and with a team.
You’ll need to be able to do lots of research, come up with new ideas, and complete training to learn more about different business areas.
You’ll be responsible for making big decisions and making sure you hire the right people to join your team. This may also involve travelling for work. You might need to learn how to work remotely before finding a suitable office environment as the business grows.
Career Path & Progression:
Your progression will depend on the success of your business. You may continue working at the business for years to come, for example in a position of leadership like CEO or Director, as you take on more employees.
With experience, you could also set up more businesses, or use your experience to move into a creative or leadership role in another company.
Whatever direction your business takes, you’ll learn a lot as an entrepreneur, so a range of opportunities could open up to you as a result.