Getting to Know Generation Z [Series]
PART 2: The Entrepreneurial Mindset
An entrepreneurial mindset is not synonymous with becoming an entrepreneur. Generation Z tends to gravitate toward an Entrepreneurial Mindset; a mindset that has been described by The Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship as the skills and behaviors that include initiative and self-direction, risk-taking, flexibility and adaptability, creativity and innovation, and critical thinking and problem-solving. Others have described an Entrepreneurial Mindset as the ability to see opportunities, organize resources and create value. Many of these attributes fall into the category of what many leaders feel are missing today in their workforce and would welcome experienced employees who display these skills and behaviors. Therein lies the question around how to foster and encourage the use of these attributes in someone who is new to the industry. What are the boundaries for creativity? How much risk should someone new to the workforce take prior to consulting someone? And how can we help the entering workforce gain visibly and opportunity in putting their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to work?
Do you know someone who has an entrepreneurial mindset within your organization today? How might you coach, teach and mentor them to ensure that these attributes are appreciated and not stifled?
