Are you a Mover or a Head-Shaker?

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Your character traits can mean the difference between mediocrity and greatness. Foster the behaviour of industry greats to achieve ultimate success.

Research firm Anchor Advisors has defined two groups of entrepreneurs: ‘movers’ and ‘head-shakers’, those with the drive to keep their business growing despite the difficult economic scene, and those who are struggling.

In a newly released study, Anchor talked to more than 130 mostly founder-led SMEs in the US. The goal was to identify the common traits of thriving SME owners, and the behaviours that might be preventing the head-shakers from doing better.

Moving forward

So what does it take to be a recession-era mover? Anchor found five important differences that set movers apart:

Work hard, play hard

The movers worked more hours than shakers – but also took more holiday time.

Keep talking to customers

Movers spent more time in direct contact with their customers.

Don’t stop thinking about tomorrow

The movers spent more time reviewing company performance and planning for the future.

Avoid time-wasters

At the thriving businesses, the owners also spent less time in meetings and resolving employee issues.

Think and grow rich

The movers were more likely to read business and personal-growth books in an effort to improve their business-management skills and their level of satisfaction with their life.

Winning attitude

No surprise, the movers made a lot more money than the head-shakers. We all know meetings can be a big time-waster.

I think the one factor the study may not have quantified that I’ve noticed in entrepreneurs who’re still doing well, is an attitude of ‘I’m not going to let this beat me’ instead of one of ‘well, the economy is hurting, so business is down.’

About the Author

Carol has been reporting on businesses large and small for 15 years now.