As an employee, have you ever wondered whether or not you are easily dispensable?
There is a common trait among employees that are invaluable to their place of work. They are intraprenuerial. If you want to survive in today’s economy, then intrapreneurship is the way to go.
Who is an Intrepreneur
No I did not misspell Entrepreneur. An intrapreneur is the less risky version of an entrepreneur but with the same level of innovation, perseverance and business acumen that is usually used to characterise an entrepreneur. Intrapreneurship is the practice of entrepreneurship by employees within an organization. The intraprenuerial type employee is highly sought after and not easily forgotten:
- Entrepreneurs pursue their visions and dreams by starting companies and building businesses, while the intrapreneur on the other hand, utilises their skills and talents, supported by a company’s resources, to build and grow that company.
- An intrapreneur conceptualises or takes ideas and turns them into viable services, products and results. They are willing to try new things whilst remaining aware of the risks as well as the rewards.
How to become an Intrapreneur
How does one become an intrapreneur? It requires a can do attitude and a reputation for helping the company succeed. Never say ‘it’s not my job.
Mentoring and coaching your colleagues will help nurture and highlight your leadership skills in the workplace. The ideal place to shine as an intrapreneur is in a start-up company or an innovative company that is not afraid to invest in innovative ideas and technology.
To be a successful intraprenuer, it is important, that like the entrepreneur, you are doing what you love and that you treat the company you work for and its resources with the same duty and care you would your own business. Many start-ups have grown into large corporations through the leadership of intrapreneurs.
Nurturing Intrapreneurial Traits
Employers today want their employees’ help to propel companies into the future with out-of-the-box thinking. Intrapreneurship is a significant method for companies to reinvent themselves and improve performance.
Examples of Companies that Nurture Intraprenuers
Google is said to be intrapreneur friendly. Employees may use up to 20% of their time to pursue other projects that may benefit the company.
3M
“3M” allows an employee to spend 15% of work time on the projects they like and think will improve the company. If initially successful, 3M even funds it for further development
Author: Sherrone Lobban