The INFJ Entrepreneur – Getting to Know the Empathetic Imagineer

Entrepreneurship is all the rage right now, and it’s not hard to see why. INFJs are particularly drawn to entrepreneurship because it allows them to use their creativity, long-range thinking, and independent working style. INFJ entrepreneurs have a knack for connecting with people, seeing their needs, and forecasting an idea or product that will be relevant not just now, but in the future. They want to do something that will benefit people in a big way. Their entrepreneurial dreams often have a human element and are tied in some way to making the world a better place.

Introverted Intuition gives the INFJ a skill for long-range thinking and creating original, visionary approaches. Using their unique set of strengths, INFJs are excellent at plotting out a strategic way to reach their goals and make them a reality. They take their time to create a business plan and look at many different perspectives and angles. They don’t rush the process but take their time to make sure they’re on the right track. They are major perfectionists, so if anything, INFJs can take a little too long in the planning stage before jumping into action.

When it comes to networking and connecting with people, INFJs are skilled at establishing rapport and imbuing confidence in their brand. As introverts, they will definitely need their alone time, but with practice, they are usually extremely capable at marketing themselves, their idea, and establishing strong connections. They are highly attuned to the deeper emotional needs and desires of others and this ability gives them a leg up when it comes to writing effectively, marketing persuasively, and deeply connecting with their clients or consumers.

As leaders and employers, INFJs are determined to hear out the various perspectives of their team. They are usually very empathetic and considerate, taking the personal needs of everyone into account when they make decisions.

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INFJ Entrepreneurial Strengths:

• Long-range thinking skills
• Ability to come up with original, one-of-a-kind ideas
• A “big picture” perspective and visionary approach
• Empathy for team members and customers
• Insight into the emotional needs and desires of their prospects and target audience
• Strong ability to establish rapport with consumers and potential investors
• Relatively strong analytical skills
• An independent mindset that is willing to take some smart risks

INFJ Entrepreneurial Weaknesses:

• May have difficulty being spontaneous or responding “on the fly”
• May struggle with current details and practical realities as they are mainly focused on the future
• May have a difficult time giving and receiving criticism
• May have a hard time making impersonal decisions that might negatively impact other people
• Can get stressed with multi-tasking and the networking involved in running a business
• May have a difficult time “selling themselves” and being aggressive as they tend to be on the modest side
• May get stuck in “analysis mode” and have difficulty making a decision

Some Tips for INFJ Entrepreneurs:

– Don’t forget the facts and details – As an INFJ you are usually focused on the big picture. This is definitely a strength in the business world, but forgetting the nitty-gritty details and the practical problems and facts can also cause some major disasters. Schedule time out of your day to check off the details that you tend to dislike or avoid.

– Stay objective in your decisions. As a feeling type, it’s a lot more natural for you to make decisions based on the needs of other people. However, in the business world, critical thinking and tough decisions are part of the game. You might have to fire someone who’s not performing well, or you might have to raise prices on a product and doing so might make it harder for some customers to afford it. When things get tough in this regard, try to have a support person you can talk to, whether it’s a friend or family member. This way you can get encouragement, a balanced perspective, and the strength you need to keep going.

– Don’t procrastinate too much. As a type with a dominant perceiving function (Introverted Intuition), it’s very comfortable to get stuck in analysis/perspective-shifting mode. Try to set measurable, attainable goals and meet them daily. Every 10-minute segment can push you towards greater progress. You need your alone time to think and imagine, but you also need to act to get all those ideas out of your brain and do something with them!

– Don’t get discouraged when you face rejection or failure! As an entrepreneur, there will inevitably be times where an idea flops or someone gets upset with you. Whether it’s an unhappy customer, a friend who doesn’t believe in your dream, or even a family member who wants you to conform to a more traditional path in life. Try to separate yourself from the criticism and remember that everyone fails or faces rejection at some point. All the greatest entrepreneurs have had moments of failure. Remember that you’re not alone!

What Are Your Thoughts?

Do you have any tips for INFJ entrepreneurs? Be sure to leave them in the comments! Want to know more about the INFJ life, careers, and more? Check out The INFJ – Understanding the Mystic.

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INFJs and the Challenge of Staying Present