intimate secrets. And hairdressers get to talk, talk, talk—all the while having a captive audience. (No one competes with someone who’s got a pair of scissors in their hands.) Many hairdressers become “stars,” at least in their own communities.
Even some retail businesses (such as fashion boutiques, music stores, or unique gift shops) might be appropriate fits for E-Type entrepreneurs who understand the advantage of transforming hum-drum shopping activities into entertainment experiences.
You may be this E-Type if . . .
1.You’re a very social person. You always prefer to work with people rather than things.
2.You have talents that can only be effectively expressed in front of others (e.g., acting, singing, performance dance).
3.You’re outgoing. Shy? You don’t know the meaning of the word. (While you may be shy inside, you cover it up by being the most extroverted person in the room.) You don’t wait for someone else to say “hello” first.
4.You’re a social butterfly. You don’t mind having lots of short-term interactions with lots and lots of people. You are comfortable with people coming in and out of your life.
5.People respond to you. While you crave attention, you also genuinely like people; you’re able to connect with others in a way that helps them relax.
6.You would love fame and fortune, but you’re willing to sacrifice consistent financial security if that’s what it takes to express yourself and use your talents.
7.You’re comfortable being the center of attention. You thrive on it!
This E-Type’s secrets & strategies
Look for a “steady gig.” Many businesses suitable for this E-Type are financially unstable. Try to find consistent income sources. It may be more glamorous to headline at a nightclub than to sing at a wedding, but remember, on the way to stardom, you still have to pay the rent. And if you’re good, guests at the wedding still applaud.
If you’re a performer, you may need to start by doing unpaid performances to get public exposure (as well as experience). Seek out opportunities that can give you visibility with potential customers. And don’t forget to have business cards made up ahead of time to hand out.
If you’re a host, remember to let some other people shine too. If you’re going to be the maitre ‘d, then someone else has to be the chef. After all, you can’t be everywhere at once.
If yours is a hospitality business, location is critical. No matter how great you cook, or how charmingly you decorate, people won’t come to your restaurant or bed & breakfast unless they like the location.
Obvious (and Not-So-Obvious) Business Choices for This E-Type
Musician for weddings, parties, fundraisers, funerals
Product demonstrator
Restaurant
Miniature golf course/family entertainment complex
Wedding planner
Bed & Breakfast
Party DJ
Hairdresser
Bar/Pub owner
Birthday party clown
Singer
TV/Movie extra (“background performer”)
Banquet room operator
Magician
Festival coordinator
Voice-over actor for commercials
Remember the corporate market. Whether as a performer or in a hospitality business, you’ll find that corporate customers can be a good target market. After all, businesses spend a great deal on travel, dining and drinking, and entertainment.
Party on!
Watch out for . . .
Don’t forget the “business” part of your business. It’s great to be with people, to entertain, to be the life of the party, but you also must be sending out the invoices, paying the bills, building a database of contacts, and earning a profit.
You hate paperwork! Your attitude is, “Darling, who has time to fill out forms when there’s an audience waiting?” But someone’s got to keep track of your accounts and file the taxes. If not you, then get someone you trust—and who is trustworthy—to do it for you. Look for someone who is an Organizer/Administrator E-Type to balance you.
