Jackson-Scott Associates Chessington

Business Helpsheets · Business start-ups

The 5 Key Qualities Needed to Succeed in Business

Reflect on the motivation, attitude and persistence involved in starting and developing a business.

There is no personality test that guarantees business success. Here are five useful qualities to reflect on when deciding whether to start a business.

1. A desire to succeed

Be clear about what you want from the business and why it matters to you. Running it may require effort beyond the familiar boundaries of an employed role.

2. A positive outlook

Look for opportunities as well as obstacles. Setbacks are part of business life; the useful question is what you can learn and what you can do next.

3. Willingness to work

An idea needs sustained effort to become a working business. Consider the time and commitment involved in delivering the product or service, finding customers and dealing with administration.

4. Patience

Progress often comes in stages. Give a sound plan time to develop rather than expecting every task or investment to produce an immediate result.

5. Persistence

Problems will arise. Work through those difficulties and continue developing the business rather than abandoning an idea at the first obstacle.

These qualities are prompts for reflection, not guarantees of a particular outcome. If you have concerns about starting up, discuss them while you are still shaping the plan. We can help you work through the business and financial questions alongside the accounting requirements.

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Thinking about working for yourself? Talk to us about your plans and the practical support you may need.

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