Personality & Values of Indian Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs are more than business owners. They design, launch, and run new businesses. Conversely to the tasks of the typical working adult, entrepreneurs engage in work tasks that involve greater risk. Due to this difference, the personality characteristics and values of entrepreneurs are unique. The two defining characteristics of entrepreneurs are drive and ambition. Additionally, entrepreneurs are seen as passionate, energetic, creative, persistent, outgoing, direct without being confrontational, resistant to standard practices and procedures, and able to handle stress when faced with challenges.

Hogan previously partnered with Dr. Julie Edge to examine the personality and values of entrepreneurs (Foster & Edge, 2014a; 2014b). They found that entrepreneurs tend to have a sense of urgency (lower Adjustment), to be driven (higher Ambition), to be outgoing (higher Sociability), to be strategic (higher Inquisitive), and stay up to date on business trends (higher Learning Approach). They also avoid getting bogged down in details (lower Prudence) and can be direct in their communication style (lower Interpersonal Sensitivity). The research by Foster and Edge also suggests that entrepreneurs are focused on their own agenda (higher Leisurely), able to charm others (higher Mischievous), and creative (higher Imaginative). Last, they found entrepreneurs value and appreciate risk-taking and experimentation (lower Security), progress and change (lower Tradition), open-minded environments (higher Hedonism), authority and influence (higher Power), and visibility (higher Recognition).

Hogan recently partnered with ThreeFish Consulting to explore the personality and values of entrepreneurs in India. ThreeFish Consulting collected data from 48 Indian entrepreneurs. Data was collected from July 2012 through April 2016. The participants completed three assessments: the Hogan Personality Inventory (HPI; a measure of day-to-day behavioral characteristics), the Hogan Development Survey (HDS; a measure of behavioral tendencies that may hinder job performance), and the Motives, Values, Preferences Inventory (MVPI; a measure of key motives and drivers).

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