Top 5 reasons veterans succeed as entrepreneurs

Military veterans are often touted as great employees — and can become even greater business owners. In fact, more than 10 percent of U.S. business owners are military veterans. That’s why ASU has partnered with Draper University, to prepare military veterans (and other student visionaries) for success in entrepreneurship.

It should come as no surprise that more than one in 10 U.S. business owners are military veterans, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. While veterans are often touted as great employees, they truly shine when they are building their own businesses.

Top-notch teamwork

The ability to successfully work in a team is essential for entrepreneurs who want their businesses to expand beyond sole proprietorship. As important as teamwork is, many business owners struggle to communicate, trust other members, and relinquish control.

Leadership experience

Even a CEO with the best ideas and a wealth of knowledge can struggle due to poor leadership abilities. Great leadership allows entrepreneurs to develop solid growth strategies, motivate their employees, and deliver many intangibles that affect a business's trajectory.

Discipline

Working for yourself means nobody is looking over your shoulder to ensure that you stay on task and focused. While it's normal for professionals to get distracted from time to time, entrepreneurs are often wearing a dozen different hats and need high levels of discipline to accomplish everything a growing business requires.

Performance under pressure

Pressure is a constant reality for entrepreneurs, whether they're trying to attract their first customers or they're presenting to angel investors. This pressure typically spills over into other parts of a business owner's life. Entrepreneurs may have the added stress of being unable to delegate or lean on anyone else — particularly in the initial stages of their businesses.

Willingness to sacrifice

Every entrepreneur's journey is different, but sacrifice is almost always a part of the roadmap to success. Entrepreneurs — whether they're ultimately successful or not — may have to give up their social lives, quality time spent with family members, financial security, and even sleep.

Action items

Become the next big CEO and launch your startup in Silicon Valley. Arizona State University has partnered with Draper University to give military veterans the best training experience to apply their military skills at launching and creating the next big thing. Submit your application today to spend Fall 2018 in Silicon Valley while launching your startup and earning credit.