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Hello! I am Dima, the founder of PitchBob.ioan AI co-pilot for entrepreneurs. We are developing a product that will positively impact the success of entrepreneurs.
This leads me to constantly study the factors that can increase the likelihood of entrepreneurial success. Most investors emphasize the primary importance of the team and the founder, but rarely specify which qualities they consider essential.
I was intrigued by the idea of analyzing this factor in investment decision-making and comparing the features of globally recognized successful entrepreneurs with those of people in everyday life who have not yet achieved significant success. This exploration aims to uncover patterns in character and behavior that can distinguish proven success from untapped potential.
After reading the biographies of Elon Musk, Steve Jobs, and many other successful entrepreneurs, I noticed a recurring theme: Many of them were not what we would call “nice” people in the conventional sense. Perhaps their success reframes our perception of their behavior, but it raises a thought-provoking question:
Do you have to be stupid to succeed as an entrepreneur, or is it just a side effect of the intense demands of building something extraordinary?
The truth is not black and white. Many approachable and genuinely kind people achieve entrepreneurial success, yet a pattern of distinct—and sometimes corrosive—traits is undeniable in those who succeed. Investors whose livelihoods depend on betting on the right founders often recognize these traits as key indicators of resilience and determination.
Here are ten such traits that can call an entrepreneur as a jerk or as one visionary leaderdepending on the perspective. Whether you choose to embrace, avoid or adapt them is entirely up to you.
Related: Do you have these 6 personality traits? You are more likely to win investors
1. Unlimited pragmatism
Startup founders thrive where others see limitations. They navigate bureaucracy, discover loopholes and adapt to challenging circumstances. Their ability to creatively solve problems without breaking ethical boundaries allows them to succeed where others falter.
Why investors love it: Pragmatism signals resourcefulness and adaptability, both critical in overcoming the inevitable obstacles of entrepreneurship.
2. Arrogance
Entrepreneurs must believe that their ideas can change the world. While arrogance can alienate people, it also incites FAITH needed to push forward when no one else believes in their vision.
Why investors love it: Confidence — bordering on arrogance — convinces others to believe in the founder's vision, attracting customers, partners and investors.
3. Strategic selfishness
Entrepreneurs prioritize their goals above all else, sacrificing weekends, personal time, and sometimes even relationships. This focus ensures that nothing distracts them from building their vision.
Why investors love it: Commitment to the mission assures investors that the founder is fully committed, reducing the risk of churn.
4. Confidence bordering on rudeness
Entrepreneurs know how to push boundaries and ask for what they need. Their ability to navigate rough negotiations and reliable sources set them apart, even if it comes across as rude at times.
Why investors love it: Confidence leads to results. Investors value founders who can secure deals and fight for their startups in competitive environments.
5. Taking risks without thinking too much
Charging ahead without overanalyzing the risks can lead to breakthroughs. Entrepreneurs who take decisive action often discover opportunities that others overlook.
Why investors love it: Risk takers are more likely to achieve outstanding results. Balanced with a willingness to move, this trait can be invaluable.
6. The art of charm
Entrepreneurs own the art of persuasion. Whether convincing an investor, inspiring a team or closing a partnership, charm is a strategic tool they use effectively.
Why investors love it: A charismatic entrepreneur can rally stakeholders and provide their startup with the resources to thrive.
7. Hyperactivity
Entrepreneurs are constantly switching between ideas and tasks, chasing opportunities at lightning speed. While many ventures may fail, their energy ensures that at least one will survive.
Why investors love it: Hyperactivity reflects a relentless drive to experiment and find what works, a critical trait in the iterative world of startups.
8. Low empathy
Entrepreneurs often lack time to dwell on the emotions of others. Their focus on achieving their goals may seem cold, but it enables them to make difficult decisions without hesitation.
Why investors love it: This focus ensures that founders prioritize results over distractions, making them more effective leaders.
9. Contradictory nature
Successful entrepreneurs constantly adapt, sometimes contradicting their previous decisions. They see this as flexibility, allowing them to pivot as circumstances evolve.
Why investors love it: of the ability to adapt rapidly changing market conditions increase a startup's chances of survival.
10. Selective forgetting
Entrepreneurs have an uncanny ability to “forget” past failures, enabling them to move forward with optimism. This resilience keeps them motivated and inspires confidence in others.
Why investors love it: Selective amnesia allows founders to focus on the future and learn from failure without dwelling on it.
Skill above all
Entrepreneurs don't take no for an answer. When faced with closed doors, they deconstruct obstacles, improvise solutions, and tap into their networks to find a way forward. it SKILLS determines their approach to challenges.
Related: Top 5 personality traits investors look for in an entrepreneur
Are these traits the hallmarks of a jerk or the tools of a successful entrepreneur? The answer depends on your perspective. Investors see these qualities as indicators of a founder's ability to navigate the chaos of building a business.
Whether you choose to emulate these traits or find your own path, one thing is clear: these qualities drive results. Success may not always come with a friendly smile, but for entrepreneurs, it often comes with an unwavering determination to make their vision a reality.