Image Credit: Depositphotos

How do you recognize a new entrepreneur?

You listen closely.

• “I have created a new product. How do I sell it?”
• “I want to work on my terms. How can I make money?”
• “I wrote a book, and there are 5000 copies in my garage. How can I sell them?”
• “I want to speak on stage. How can I get more engagements?”
• “I like to lead people. How can I reach that level in business?”

These are the questions new entrepreneurs ask, and what they are really asking is, “How do I earn income doing what I love to do?” and “How do I create a life that fits my values?”

While these are great aspirations, they miss the initial and most relevant question, and that is this:

“How can I serve?”

Asking this first changes everything.

Think about it.

What if, instead, budding entrepreneurs asked these questions?

• “What product can I create that serves people?”
• “What services do people need?”
• “What can I write that will enrich peoples’ lives or solve a problem they are facing?”
• “What is the message people most need to hear?”
• “How can I serve those who need guidance?”

The change in perspective is slight but mighty.

With this perspective, you can:

1. Start with a more defined purpose.
2. Begin to envision whom you will serve.
3. Ensure that the product or service you develop will become viable much more quickly.
4. Find purpose beyond a paycheck.
5. Serve customers who will also refer others to you.
6. Sell without “selling.”

And this is all because you started with the one most important question.

You have strengths.

Now ask the question: “How can I serve?”

Success comes from applying your strengths to service.

Strengths + Service = Success

How can we help you serve?

For valuable resources on Leadership Strengths and Tools, click here.

Deb Ingino is a highly sought-after executive coach, mentor, consultant, and speaker worldwide. Deb is well versed in business operations and in the importance of asking key questions most business leaders won’t ask themselves. She brings deep experience in leadership development, strategy, high performance team building and effective communication. She has a passion for leading people to discover and maximize their strengths as well as those of fellow team members, while offering advanced strategies to achieve high performance. Deb is the perfect fit if you’re ready to take your leadership and impact to the next level!