What's the difference between an entrepreneur and a manager?
On the surface, they might look alike. A top manager could be so charismatic, knowledgeable, and business-savvy that you'll think, "This is a real businessman."
Entrepreneurs are often too diverse to fit a single mold. Some are reserved, others outgoing. Some are methodical, others creative. They can be modest or aggressive.
But there's one way to tell them apart.
One relies on what's already there, the other on what's not yet there.
Top managers usually care about:
Strategies
Concepts
Risk analysis
Quality control
Financial reports
Power distribution
Organizational structures
Legally sound contracts
Internal policies, procedures, regulations, and more.
Entrepreneurs focus on different things. They're driven by:
Value
Vision
Return
Timing
Meaning
Synthesis
Opportunity
Creative solutions
Vague but promising trends, and more.
For a founder, Function is sacred. For a manager, it's Form*.
That's why few managers become entrepreneurs. It takes not a tuning of the worldview, but a shift.
That's why a strong CEO is a treasure. Not just a manager, but not quite an entrepreneur.
CEO is the bridge between two very different worlds.
Sincerely yours,
-Alexander
P.S. *Sure, this is a simplification. The question lies in the ratio between the two.
About me:
As a business therapist, I help tech founders quickly solve dilemmas at the intersection of business and personality, and boost company value as a result.
How can I help you?
If you've long been trying to understand what is limiting you and/or your business and how to finally give important changes a push, then The Catalyst Session is designed specifically for you. Book it here.