Are You a Founder?

Throughout my career, I've had the opportunity to meet hundreds of people I would consider Founders. However, many of them shy away from embracing this label.

I think it's probably because the word "founder" is often associated with the "startup" world. Or maybe they just see themselves more as an entrepreneur or someone who has "simply" started a business.

For example, some of my clients refer to themselves as the "Owner", the "Principal", the "Director", or a "Consultant". But guess what? Despite the different titles, they all share many of the same qualities that, to me, capture the essence of a Founder.

Do these feel familiar?

• You founded and run your own business pretty much full-time
• You started your business as you wanted to do your thing — your way
• You are the principal decision–maker in your business
• You are responsible for the strategic direction of your business
• You use contractors and may, in time, hire people to handle specific parts of your business
• You direct your client, not the other way round (or you're working towards achieving this)

I work with clients who encompass most, if not all, of these traits.

So, whether you see yourself as an entrepreneur, consultant, owner, or principal, then maybe I can help you too. Just let it be known I might accidentally call you a Founder!

---

Also Filed in Work

• Recent Reads August 24
• Tenets for Better Work
• What was Work With Shop?
• Publishing Prices Online
• The Power of Pause