Do You Have the Right Entrepreneurship Skills to Start Your Own Venture? Here Are the Top Seven Skills Every Entrepreneur Should Have

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Embarking on the entrepreneurial journey is both exhilarating and daunting. It demands more than just a brilliant idea; it requires a set of specific skills that are essential for transforming that idea into a successful venture. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a newbie contemplating your first startup, understanding and honing these skills can significantly impact your entrepreneurial success. Here are the top seven skills every entrepreneur should have:

1. Visionary Thinking

A successful entrepreneur doesn’t just see the world as it is; they envision what it could be. Visionary thinking involves the ability to anticipate future trends, recognize opportunities, and imagine innovative solutions. This skill helps you set long-term goals and navigate through the inevitable uncertainties of starting a business. Cultivating a strong sense of vision allows you to stay motivated and inspire others to join you on your journey.

How to Develop It: Regularly engage in strategic planning, study market trends, and immerse yourself in industry developments. Don’t be afraid to dream big and think outside the box.

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2. Resilience and Adaptability

The road to entrepreneurship is rarely smooth. Challenges, setbacks, and failures are part of the process. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from these difficulties, while adaptability refers to your capacity to adjust your strategies in response to changing circumstances. Together, these traits enable you to persevere through tough times and pivot when necessary.

How to Develop It: Build a strong support network, practice stress management techniques, and stay flexible in your approach. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity and remain open to change.

3. Financial Acumen

Understanding the financial aspects of your business is crucial. This includes budgeting, financial forecasting, managing cash flow, and interpreting financial statements. Financial acumen ensures that you make informed decisions, avoid common pitfalls, and maintain the financial health of your business.

How to Develop It: Educate yourself about financial principles, consider taking courses on accounting and finance, and seek advice from financial professionals. Hands-on experience with financial planning can also be invaluable.

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4. Leadership and Team Building

An entrepreneur is often the leader of a team, and effective leadership is key to building a motivated, cohesive group. Strong leadership involves not only guiding and inspiring your team but also making strategic decisions and fostering a positive work environment. Team building skills are essential for recruiting talent, delegating tasks, and creating a collaborative culture.

How to Develop It: Work on communication skills, learn about different leadership styles, and invest time in team-building activities. Seek feedback from your team and be open to improving your leadership approach.

5. Marketing and Sales Skills

Marketing and sales are the lifelines of any business. You need to effectively promote your product or service, understand your target market, and develop strategies to reach and engage customers. This involves creating compelling messaging, utilizing digital marketing tools, and mastering sales techniques to convert leads into loyal customers.

How to Develop It: Stay updated on marketing trends, experiment with various marketing strategies, and analyze your results. Networking with industry experts and attending workshops can also enhance your marketing and sales skills.

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6. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

Entrepreneurs are faced with numerous problems that require innovative solutions. Problem-solving skills involve identifying issues, analyzing options, and implementing effective solutions. Critical thinking allows you to evaluate situations objectively and make decisions based on logic and evidence.

How to Develop It: Practice analyzing case studies, engage in strategic games or simulations, and approach problems with a structured methodology. Encourage feedback and learn from your problem-solving experiences.

7. Networking and Relationship Building

Building and maintaining relationships with customers, partners, investors, and other stakeholders is vital for business growth. Networking skills help you connect with influential individuals, gain valuable insights, and create opportunities for collaboration. Strong relationships can open doors to new resources and support systems.

How to Develop It: Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and actively engage in online communities related to your field. Focus on building genuine, mutually beneficial relationships rather than simply collecting contacts.

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Starting and running a successful venture requires a blend of various skills. While no one is born with all these skills, many can be developed through education, experience, and perseverance. Assess your strengths and areas for improvement, and seek resources or mentorship to bolster your capabilities. By cultivating these top seven entrepreneurship skills, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape and turn your vision into a thriving business.

Are you ready to assess your skills and take the leap? The entrepreneurial world awaits your unique contributions and innovative ideas.

Check out the various Master’s programme we offer including Entrepreneurship and Innovation to kickstart or rocket-fuel your career growth: list of online bachelor/master/PhD programmes.

You can also chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on the application process, and the discounts we might offer.

EIGHT qualities of a good business manager

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What are the qualities of a good business manager? This is a potentially subjective question, as different organisations may prioritise different qualities in their managers. Nevertheless, several qualities could be universally crucial for all good business managers.

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A competent business manager serves as the cornerstone of any thriving organisation. They oversee the company’s progress toward its objectives, lead teams, and ensure seamless operations. But what qualities precisely distinguish an effective business manager? The following are eight of the more common attributes characterising a successful business manager.

(1) Leadership Skills

Leadership is arguably the most crucial quality of a competent business manager. Successful leaders motivate and inspire their teams, establish clear objectives, and lead by example. They have the capacity to influence others and guide them in reaching the organisation’s goals. A strong leader is approachable, attentive to their team, and offers constructive feedback.

(2) Decision-Making Abilities

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Business managers often encounter difficult decisions that can significantly impact the entire organisation. Making well-informed and timely decisions is essential. A good manager collects relevant information, evaluates the advantages and disadvantages, and carefully considers potential outcomes before making a decision. They are also prepared to take responsibility for their choices and learn from mistakes.

(3) Ability to think Strategically

Strategic thinking involves considering the broader perspective and making plans for the future. A competent business manager establishes long-term goals, foresees potential obstacles, and devises strategies to overcome them. They are proactive rather than reactive, always thinking several steps ahead to ensure the organisation’s success.

(4) Adaptability and Flexibility

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The business world is constantly evolving, and proficient managers must be able to adapt rapidly. Adaptability is essential, whether due to shifts in market trends, new technologies, or organisational restructuring. Flexible managers are open to new ideas, willing to modify their approach when necessary, and capable of adjusting strategies to overcome new challenges.

(5) Communication Skills

Effective communication is essential in any managerial position. A proficient business manager must communicate ideas clearly and succinctly through written reports, presentations, or face-to-face meetings. Additionally, they should excel in active listening to ensure they grasp the needs and concerns of their team members. A positive work environment is created by fostering effective communication, and strong relationships are built within the organisation.

(6) Conflict Resolution

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Conflicts are inevitable in any workplace, but a skilled manager can handle them effectively. They should promptly address issues, listen to all parties involved, and strive for a fair resolution. By practising constructive conflict management, a manager can maintain a harmonious work environment and prevent minor issues from escalating into more significant problems.

(7) Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence, or EI, refers to the ability to understand and manage one’s own emotions and the emotions of others. A manager with high EI can navigate complex interpersonal relationships, handle stress effectively, and maintain a positive work atmosphere. They are empathetic, self-aware, and capable of managing conflicts in a constructive manner.

(8) Time Management

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Effective time management is crucial for any business manager. They must prioritise tasks, delegate responsibilities, and efficiently manage their time to meet deadlines. Good time management skills help reduce stress, increase productivity, and ensure that essential tasks are completed on time.

An effective business manager combines leadership, communication, decision-making, emotional intelligence, adaptability, strategic thinking, time management, and conflict-resolution skills. These qualities help them lead their teams effectively, overcome challenges, and guide the organisation to success. Aspiring managers can improve their effectiveness by continually developing these skills and significantly contributing to their organisation’s growth.

If you are ready to learn something new, certify what you know, network with professionals globally, or take on a new challenge, consider getting a globally recognised master’s degree. Take a look at our list of online programmes and see if we have anything that aligns with your new career path.

You can also chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on all the programmes we offer, the application process, and the discounts we might offer.

DILO – A day in the life of an RKC student – Robert C

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As a former Education advisor, if I had to pick one of the most frequently asked questions by prospective students, it would be “How many hours do I need to study?”  

The vast majority (if not all) of our students are working and leading hectic professional lives. Some are motivated and have already decided to undertake a master’s, while others contemplate the unknowns of an online programme. In my experience, two things affect their decision the most.   

First – finances, and second, being able to strike the perfect work, study, and life balance. While I cannot completely help you with the finances (partially yes – check out the discount offers currently being offered on our online MBA, MSc, and LL.M programmes), I thought what I could do to help was to bring some facts to light about the other unknowns – what does a typical day in the life of an online master’s student look like?  

I asked a few of our students from different walks of life, occupations, and personal situations to answer a few questions on their study tactics and strategies, plans and reality, and so on.  So, through our ‘#DILO ‘a typical day in the life of a master’s student’ blog series, we bring to you one of our actual students or alumni sharing the insights.   

Today, we’re looking at  Robert’s typical study days. Robert studied Master’s of Business Administration programme from University of Cumbria.

An Introduction  

Which programme did you choose and why?  

I chose an MBA programme in International Business in order to boost my wealth of knowledge for conducting business through a wider lens that could help me steer the company and any new initiatives to greater heights from an informed foundation.

The Study Plan   

How did you plan to study each module, and what was the reality? How many hours did/do you have to put in each day/or in a week?  

I usually read, research or write on an average 4-5 hours per night during the week and 6-8 hours on the weekend. I would begin my studies after returning from work, after dinner close to about 9 pm.

What part of the day did/do you find most suitable to study? (e.g. early mornings, lunch break, evenings, weekends?)  

I found morning hours very apt especially if the assigned time implied adjusting your wake-up schedule and morning routine. Moreover, the weekends were more productive for me.

How much time did you devote for each assignment?  

Depending on the assignments, I would spend minimum one day on an average for completing assignments.

Travelling and Communication  

How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors given the time differences?  

The forum is a great tool however, most professors are available through email which made communication very easy and effective.

A typical day as a master’s student  

What does a typical day as an Online Masters’ student look like for you?  

A typical dat would be like this: Wake early.. ready emails and forum posts, gather information for assignments if necessary. Once home from work begin reading, research or writing. Weekends are different as I have the whole day to manage my time. I generally aim to end my weekend studies by 4 pm

Any advice?  

Any advice you have for students to better plan their studies.  

Yes a few!

Ask many questions to ensure they have all information needed to help manage time.

Stay ahead of reading assignments.

Read all suggested and mandatory articles while monitoring external news sources to support learning objectives

Stay focused and positive— keep your end goals in kind at all times and know that the sacrifices will soon pay off

Alright friends, this was a sneak peek of a typical day in  Robert’s life as a master’s student. I hope you find it insightful and informative and that it gives you an idea of what to expect when you enrol for our master’s programmes. Watch this space as we have many more interesting insights coming up! 

Online Education: Why should you consider doing your degree programme with Robert Kennedy College?

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Embarking on a higher education journey is a significant decision, and selecting the right institution is crucial. Robert Kennedy College (RKC) stands out as an excellent choice for online education for several compelling reasons. Here’s why enrolling in a program at RKC could be the right move for you:

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Swiss Quality Education Online

RKC offers Swiss-quality education that is globally recognised. Committed to high standards, the college provides comprehensive and flexible programmes designed to meet various professional and personal development needs. You can rest assured that our programs are tailored to your needs. You can experience our online platform by requesting that your Education Advisor open a trial account. Additionally, you can chat with your Education Advisor live on WhatsApp.

Exclusive University Partnerships

The college has exclusive partnerships with top UK universities – University of Cumbria, the University of Salford, York St. John University, and the University of Gloucestershire. These partnerships ensure that the programs are carefully designed to meet the changing demands of today’s dynamic industries.

University of Cumbria

The partnership between the University of Cumbria and Robert Kennedy College is a significant collaboration in online postgraduate education. Here are some key aspects of this partnership:

  • Established in 2010, this partnership has been dedicated to delivering online graduate and postgraduate qualifications to managers worldwide. You can visit the university website for more information about the partnership.
  • The programmes offered through this collaboration are unique and include BA, LLM, MBA, and MSc degrees.
  • Each programme is delivered by Robert Kennedy College’s team of expert practitioners, which is complemented by a module delivered by the University of Cumbria.
  • This partnership ensures students receive a globally recognised education combining Swiss quality with British tradition.
  • With students from every continent, the programs offer a truly international experience and an opportunity to network with fellow leaders from all over the world.
  • Robert Kennedy College offers twenty-two unique MBA programs through its exclusive partnership with the University of Cumbria Business School.

This collaboration reflects a commitment to providing comprehensive and flexible programs that adapt to students’ lifestyle and career objectives, ensuring they receive a high-quality education that is respected worldwide.

University of Salford

The partnership between the University of Salford and Robert Kennedy College is a strategic alliance that combines the strengths of both institutions to offer a range of master’s programs through online education. Here are some highlights of this partnership:

  • Franchise Agreement: The University of Salford and RKC have a franchise agreement that allows RKC to deliver a selection of the university’s master’s programs online to a global audience. You can visit the university website for more information about the partnership.
  • 100% Online Delivery: These programmes are delivered entirely online, making them accessible to applicants worldwide. The courses are presented online via video and supplemented by seminars and tutorials with RKC tutors.
  • British Government Recognition: The degree awarded upon completion is recognised by the British government and duly listed on the United Kingdom’s Department for Education list of recognised UK awarding institutions. You can verify their official University status directly at the UK Government Website.
  • Diverse Program Offerings: The partnership offers a variety of programmes, including LLM International Commercial Law, MSc Business Administration, MSc Digital Business, and many more, catering to different professional needs. Click here for more information on the programmes we offer.
  • Real-World Application: The programmes are designed to be relevant and applicable to today’s business environment, helping students build strategies and gain knowledge that can be directly applied to their careers.
  • Global Student Body: The partnership prides itself on having students from every continent, providing a diverse and international learning experience.
  • Industry-Focused Education: The University of Salford Business School aims to excel as an industry-focused business school with a global outlook, known for exceptional applied knowledge creation and exchange.
  • Exclusive Online Programmes: In our commitment to providing state-of-the-art services to students, we use cutting-edge software tailor-made for online course delivery. OnlineCampus is an all-encompassing interactive and easy-to-use software which makes studying online a truly enjoyable experience.

This partnership is a testament to the commitment of both institutions to provide quality education that is flexible, accessible, and aligned with the needs of the global marketplace.

York St John University

The partnership between York St John University and Robert Kennedy College is an exclusive collaboration that enhances the educational landscape by offering a range of online master’s programs. Here are some key points about this partnership:

  • Exclusive Online Programmes: The partnership provides exclusive online master’s programmes, such as the 100% Online MBA, in various specialisations, such as Leading Innovation and Change, Coaching Mentoring and Leadership, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Innovation Leadership and Consulting, and Leadership and Management.
  • Global Recognition: The degrees offered through this partnership are recognised worldwide, ensuring graduates have qualifications that are respected and valued globally.
  • Swiss Quality Education: Robert Kennedy College, based in Zürich, Switzerland, is known for its Swiss-quality online learning. The college has developed state-of-the-art online e-learning technology, which is used to deliver these programmes.
  • Student-Centred Philosophy: The partnership emphasises a student-centred approach, where students are part of an online learning community engaged with faculty members and other students.
  • Diverse and International: With over 5,000 students from 130 different countries, the programmes offer a truly international and diverse educational experience.
  • Flexible and Tailored for Career Growth: The courses are designed to be flexible and prestigious, tailored to fit the career growth needs of the students.

This partnership between York St John University and Robert Kennedy College represents a commitment to providing quality education that is flexible, accessible, and aligned with the needs of the global job market.

University of Gloucestershire

The partnership between the University of Gloucestershire and Robert Kennedy College is a recent collaboration to provide an innovative and accessible academic pathway for students worldwide. Here are some key features of this partnership:

  • Direct Entry to PhD: The Executive Diploma in Advanced Research offered by Robert Kennedy College provides a pathway to the University of Gloucestershire’s PhD program. Upon completing the diploma and passing an online interview, students can gain direct admission to the PhD program, focusing on dissertation writing.
  • Worldwide Recognition: The PhD achieved through this collaboration is accredited by the British Government, ensuring the degree is recognised and respected.
  • 100% Online Learning: The partnership offers the flexibility of online study, allowing students to balance their academic pursuits with personal and professional commitments.
  • Personalised Mentorship: Students receive comprehensive support and guidance throughout their doctoral journey, ensuring a personalised educational experience.
  • Diverse Specialisations: The programme offers a range of fields for specialisation, including Strategic and Digital Marketing, Law, Accounting, Business Strategy, and more, catering to various academic interests and career goals.
  • Exclusive Fees for Alumni: RKC alums benefit from special tuition fees and convenient instalment options, making further education more accessible.

This partnership bridges the gap between rigorous academic research and practical, real-world application, providing a transformative educational experience that empowers students to become thought leaders and change-makers in their respective fields.

Wide Range of Programmes

Whether you’re interested in an MBA, MSc, BA, LL.M, or even a PhD, RKC has a programme for you. Specialisations range from Computer Science and International Business to Digital Marketing, Finance, Public Health Management, and more, providing diverse fields to advance your career. Click here for our programme catalogue.

Flexible Learning

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RKC’s 100% online delivery model allows you to learn at your own pace and in your own space. This flexibility enables you to balance your personal life, professional goals, and academic growth seamlessly.

Fast-Track or Extended Study Options

The structure of RKC’s programmes is designed to accommodate your schedule. Depending on your needs, you can fast-track your degree completion to as little as one year or extend it up to five years.

Career Advancement

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The programs at RKC are tailored for career growth. They are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge required to excel in your field and to help you climb the professional ladder.

Innovative Learning Environment

RKC utilises the latest technology to deliver its courses, ensuring an engaging and interactive learning experience. The college’s innovative approach to online education sets it apart from traditional institutions. You can experience a limited part of this experience through our trial access; chat with your Education Advisor today on WhatsApp and request your trial access.

Supportive Academic Community

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RKC boasts a supportive academic community. Students have access to experienced faculty and a network of peers from around the world, fostering a collaborative and enriching learning environment.

Robert Kennedy College offers a unique blend of Swiss-quality education, flexible learning options, and globally recognised degrees. Its partnership with top UK universities ensures that the programmes are relevant and up-to-date, preparing students for the challenges of the modern workplace. If you’re looking for an institution that values innovation, flexibility, and global recognition, RKC is an excellent choice for your academic and professional development.

Choosing RKC for your studies is not just about earning a degree; it’s about embarking on a journey that will transform your career and open doors to new opportunities. With its commitment to excellence and student success, Robert Kennedy College is where your future begins.

Click here to apply. There is no application fee, and applying doesn’t involve any commitment.