Building a Reputation As Young Entrepreneurs

If you ask anyone under the age of twenty-five, they will probably tell you that they have a hard time getting the respect that they deserve. Those in business often find that this is definitely a problem that they feel that they have to overcome. Some feel that with age comes experience, and with that experience comes knowledge that can be trusted. However, there are many young entrepreneurs that are smart and will go a long way. They just have problems getting people to take them serious when they are at work or working on a business idea. There are some things they can do to get more respect, or at least to protect their reputation.

Being young entrepreneurs does not mean having to struggle, but you may have to work a little harder to build a good reputation. Even harder than that is defending one. So many young professionals with a lot to lose have made small mistakes that have cost them a lot. One of the top mistakes they make is being opinionated about those they work with, near, or for. It is never a good idea to bad mouth anyone, even when you think it is safe to do so. That person you are having drinks with could know them, or they could jump at the chance to make you look bad. Trust no one in this case and keep your personal opinions of other professionals to yourself. Even your best friend could turn on you one day. It happens all the time.

Young entrepreneurs are often strong willed, full of big dreams, and are looking to further their own businesses. This type of personality is a strong one, but may have meant that they have butted heads with folks before they struck out on their own. This is a mistake many young people make whether they are working for themselves or someone else. In the long run, people never forget these things and in the future, it could make or break a business relationship. Don't job jump and burn bridges before going it on your own. Be reliable even if you think what you are doing has nothing to do with where you are planning to go.

The Internet is a great place to find work, work connections, business ideas, and to network with other young entrepreneurs. However, it is also a place where small mistakes could mean the loss of a reputation. Social networks like Facebook and MySpace are fun, but they are not the place to be if you are one of the many young entrepreneurs out there. One picture on your personal site of you drinking too much, flashing someone, or doing anything else is going to dent your reputation for a long time to come. Stay off those sites or think really hard before you post each picture or blog entry.

No matter what your ambitions and how likable you are, remember that there are always going to be people who are not going to like you. They may resent your ambition because they do not have it themselves, or they may not get along with with high tuned personalities. No matter what you do or who you meet, always be as nice and charming as you can be. Keep your thoughts about someone in your head and you and those like you will go along way as young entrepreneurs.