Let’s Discuss: INTRAPRENEUR VS. ENTREPRENEUR

Have you recently attended a networking event (yes, Zoom counts) and everyone is talking about “their business”?  The questions are always “What do you do?” or “What is your business?”  I don’t know about you, but the conversations usually turn to entrepreneurship.  My response is always, “I do me.” Why? Because I also consider myself an intrapreneur.  Let me explain.

What exactly is an Intrapreneur?

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines an intrapreneur as a corporate executive who develops new enterprises within the corporation. Wikipedia (because who doesn’t love Wikipedia?) defines it as the act of behaving like an entrepreneur while working with/within a large organization. I define it as someone who is impacting their organization by bringing bold new ideas - yes, innovation - and diverse thoughts to a company. Just like how entrepreneurs bring products and services to the market and their consumers, you provide similar ideas and solutions!  The main difference is that an intrapreneur is an employee and an entrepreneur is a founder.

Why do I identify with an Intrapreneur?

I consistently bring my best ideas and thought leadership to my role. I think of innovative ways to improve processes and add value.  In turn, I am making an impact, which is key.  Your worth, skills and experience add value to a company, team, or job. Remember the sage words of Sean “Jay Z” Carter, “I’m not a businessman, I’m a business, man.” We contribute in our various roles as employees and team members whether we serve in leadership or start a business.

Which one am I?

I consider myself both, however, there are stark differences between Intrapreneurs and Entrepreneurs. The below diagram highlights a few.

At my job, I am an intrapreneur; but I am an entrepreneur with my company, the Lead with Latisha community and platform. Thankfully, they both serve my purpose and are within a career I love. I drive innovation and make an impact in both roles and through the value that I contribute. 

 With the exciting increase of pivots and entrepreneurship in 2020, I’ve also observed an increase in “9-5 shaming” lately. Everyone does not aspire to be an entrepreneur, but that does not mean they contribute any less or are underperforming. Many of us follow our passions and find purpose in our careers, which is okay. Let us all refuse to allow others to limit our contributions.

I am doing GREAT as an intrapreneur and entrepreneur, and guess what? So are you!

Want to learn more about how to make an impact whether you are an entrepreneur or intrapreneur?  Let’s Chat!