5 Character Traits That Are Mandatory to Excel in Business

By: Jeremy McCluggage C.Ht.

Succeeding in business is a challenge on a good day.  If you lack any one of these traits you will probably fail in business.  I know, that sounds harsh, yet some things just matter.

Character is so important in all aspects of your life, yet it seems that people are coming back to the idea that character matters.  I am so glad that things are swaying back that direction.  I am tired of hearing about somebody screwing someone else and using the phrase, âIt is just business, it is not personal.â
The people I speak to are sick of business, whether it be large or small, treating its employees and clients with a lack of integrity.  It is personal and I suggest that we do what is best for everyone involved and do unto others as we would have done to us because character and integrity matter.

Charisma is very important as well.  If you have a personality that draws other people in that is always helpful.  I have some clients that do not have natural charisma, yet with the use of some basic techniques have been able to make it happen for their business in spite of it.  Charisma comes from the Greek word meaning âto favorâ.  In the past it was seen as a gift that very few people have yet if you see individuals who are passionate, and totally customer focused it seems like they fit this category.  Love what you do and love the client and they will be singing your praises as well.

Courage is defined as doing what must be done in spite of fear or personal weakness.  Starting and running a business and doing it right means that sometimes you have to make a call that may be scary at first.  
You may be going against a common business practice that you see as ineffective.  You may just be standing up for what is right or making a change from a job to a self employed position.  Courage means that you not only see yourself succeeding, but succeeding in a huge way regardless of odds.

Consistency is how you stay in business long term.  So many small business owners start off taking care of the client and working their fingers to the bone and then burn themselves out.  You must be consistently the best in order to last in todayâs market environment.  You do not have a choice.  

You must have a consistently great product, consistently great service, and consistently great follow up and follow through if you plan on taking it to the next level in your business and being around for a while.  
Communication is the fifth and final attribute.  You have to set your clients expectations appropriately no matter what.  You have to shoot straight with the client and keep the communication flowing throughout the process.  

Candor is mandatory in all communication.  Honesty no matter what should be your policy.  If you mess up you call the client first before they catch it and fix it.  Admit to messing up and tell them exactly what you will do to make it right.  

Each of the items is and integral part of being a great small business.  If you do your best to embody all of the traits of Character, Charisma, Consistency, Courage, or Communication you will eventually succeed.