In case you’re unfamiliar with the term “intrapreneur,” let’s explain it a bit. Intrapreneurs are employees tasked with developing innovative ideas within a company. Because they apply unusual brainstorming methods, they are assigned the resources, time and freedom to develop the ideas their own way.
Intrapreneurs have a similar mindset to that of entrepreneurs. The main difference between the two is that intrapreneurs work for a company. Another one is — entrepreneurs are versed in divining how to create a company from scratch, whereas intrapreneurs are brainstorming ways to improve an already existing company. As a rule, intrapreneurs think in terms of innovation to company culture and processes, in general.
The term “intrapreneur” was first coined by Gifford Pinchot III, American entrepreneur and President of Pinchot & Company. His definition describes intrapreneurs as “dreamers who do and who take responsibility for creating an innovation of any kind within an organization.”
Pro tip: Intrapreneurs are not to be confused with innerpreneurs. The latter value personal fulfillment over economic gains when establishing a business.
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Recognizing an Intrapreneur
Sometimes it can be difficult to tell if someone is an intrapreneur, especially if you’re hiring one for your business for the first time. The good news is — there are certain traits unique to intrapreneurs, such as:
- Innovativeness
- Perseverance
- Flexibility
- Passion
- Trial and error
- Analytics
- Problem-solving skills
- Commitment
Look for new hires who know how to look at tasks and ideas from a different angle. As a rule, intrapreneurs are, more often than not, mild-tempered people unafraid of testing new ideas. They rarely get discouraged, even in face of failure.
They Work for You, But With the Same Passion as If It Were Their Own Company
As already mentioned, the main difference between entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs is that the latter work within a company. Intrapreneurs are passionate about their ideas and goals, and you can be certain they will always give their best to make their goals come to fulfillment, even though they’re not doing it for their own business.
Intrapreneurs have the perseverance to see each task through, no matter the difficulties. Because of that trait, they inspire others around them to perform better and be more determined in their undertakings.
They Set More Achievable Goals
Intrapreneurs know how to set targeted goals and go about them efficiently and with determination. These people are resourceful, value diversity, and know the importance of alternative approaches.
One strategy they often use is the Objectives and Key Results (OKR) methodology. Basically, this strategy is rooted in defining key results aimed at helping one achieve targeted goals.
Here are some OKR examples.
They Use the Right Tools
Intrapreneurs are tech-savvy. So tech-savvy, in fact, that they may easily decline a nicely paid job offer just because the employer doesn’t use proper tools.
Intrapreneurs can provide invaluable insights into new tools and teach their colleagues how to best employ them. Email management tools, task management tools and kanban boards are the notable examples.
They’re Always Learning
What is typical for intrapreneurs is that they don’t give up easily (if at all). When they feel they’re not resourceful enough, intrapreneurs will embrace custom eLearning, rather than blunder aimlessly.
Intrapreneurs are always acquiring new skills. Due to that, they can be a positive influence on the people around them.
In addition, intrapreneurs are perfectly aware of the ever-changing nature of any business environment. On top of improving their resourcefulness, they also work on improving their mindset.
Because they’re versed in a number of approaches (practically in any situation), they are skilled communicators who know how to pass their vision to others.
They Understand the Big Picture
Intrapreneurs never lose sight of the big picture, in which they are rather similar to entrepreneurs. That is to say, intrapreneurs’ decisions can sometimes appear alien to people around them simply because others don’t see the final destination clearly.
You can be sure that intrapreneurs will always, without fail, make conscious decisions keeping targeted goals in mind.
These people are risk-takers and are capable of getting back on track, even when facing a failure. They observe each failure and success as steps toward the greatest goal.
They Are Conscious Entrepreneurs
Just like entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs challenge established routines within the company. Even if that habit can often prove unpopular, in the long run, entrepreneurs will manage to make changes for the better for everyone.
The latter is important to keep in mind. Intrapreneurs don’t think only about their personal goals; they strive to make the workspace better and more efficient for all employees. That’s why you shouldn’t judge their unconventional methods even when you can’t comprehend them. Intrapreneurs are always best left to their own devices in achieving their vision, which is all too often unclear to others.
They Are Masters of Lateral Thinking
Many people talk about lateral thinking nowadays, but not everyone can apply it. Fortunately, most intrapreneurs are rather versed in this art.
If you’re unfamiliar with the term, lateral thinking is a manner of solving problems by applying not immediately obvious indirect and creative reasoning approaches. The process doesn’t follow the usual step-by-step logic. Rather, it relies on individuality and creativity.
Conclusion
Everything considered, intrapreneurs are unique individuals capable of thinking up the most extraordinary of approaches that, one way or another, always bear fruit. No obstacle will stop these people from achieving their end-goal. They’ll keep moving forward no matter the circumstances and will, eventually, make the changes they’ve envisioned come to take place.
Because of all these extraordinary traits, intrapreneurs are an invaluable addition to any team. Hiring even a single one is certain to benefit your business greatly.
However, remember that intrapreneurs should be allowed sufficient time and resources to make their vision happen.
Because of their nature, intrapreneurs are usually easy to get along with. They are moderate in their approach and are fully aware of the importance of interpersonal communication.
Given the right environment, resources, time and encouragement, intrapreneurs can do wonders for their company. Let them be themselves, and you’ll start seeing positive changes very soon.