Lesson 28: Being an Entrepreneurial Leader

Being an Entrepreneurial Leader

Michael Gerber, author of The E-Myth series, describes entrepreneurs as having three distinct perspectives: the entrepreneur, the manager, and the technician.

In this session, we’ll talk about how to identify these perspectives and how to use them to grow your business.

Michael Gerber’s Three Perspectives

The Three Perspectives

Michael Gerber, author of The E-Myth series, says, “Most entrepreneurs fail because you are working in your business rather than on your business.” He describes entrepreneurs as having three distinct perspectives. Although these perspectives often clash, they are all necessary for a successful business.

The Entrepreneur

This is the part of you that wanted to start the business. The entrepreneur is always asking, “What if?” They are focused on innovation, invention, and big dreams. Their goal is to make money and make a difference. They thrive on change and like to be able to lead others into their vision of the future. Without the entrepreneur, the business would not exist.

The Manager

This is the systematic, organized part of the entrepreneur. They thrive on making plans, cleaning up, and maintaining order. The manager is practical, pragmatic, and systematic. Without the manager, the business would not function day to day.

The Technician

This is the part of the entrepreneur who has the passion for the task at hand. This is the dedicated baker, the talented carpenter, or the brilliant scientist. They like to focus on the work at hand and hate being interrupted by the manager’s planning or the entrepreneur’s crazy dreams. Without the technician, the business would have nothing to sell.

 
 Identifying the Activities

Gerber suggests writing down the activities of your business and classifying them by each of the perspectives:

E stands for entrepreneurial activities. These are the things that you should be doing to move your business forward.

M stands for managerial activities. These are the things that keep your business moving on a daily basis, like paying the bills, hiring and mentoring staff, and making sure that work gets done.

T stands for technician activities. These are the things that create the business’ products and services, like making cookies, writing computer programs, or designing dresses.

Working It Out

When you begin your business, you will probably be wearing all three hats. However, your goal should be to eventually focus on the entrepreneurial activities. By delegating the day-to-day responsibilities, you will have more time and energy to invent, create, and do the things that will transform your small business into a money-making enterprise.