I just read this article “6 Characteristics of Social Entrepreneurs” which are:
- Willingness to self correct
- Willingness to share credit
- Willingness to break free of established structure
- Willingness to cross disciplinary boundaries
- Willingness to work quietly
- Strong ethical impetus
I liked the article as it was based on research and a terrific book “How to Change the World” by David Bornstein who is an advocate for the power of new ideas. At the Tourism Cafe we have been teaching and advocating experiential travel for years now and these elements all ring true for businesses willing to take a look at their current paradigm of thinking and delve into ‘What if”. You may not see yourself as a social entrepreneur, you may not of even heard of this subset from the traditionally taught field of entrepreneurship but as we embrace the baby boom population that is participating and giving back in many ways, I hope this impacts the number and types of businesses that embrace his approach. It does not take away at all from the mainstream entrepreneurs but it certainly adds and differentiates.
When I think of tourism companies that may fit this description, the former Elderhostel organization, recently rebranded as Exploratas comes to mind. I had the privelege of doing my masters and doctoral research with this organization and to this date I remain struck by the characteristics that differentiated this successful company from many others; particularly as they forged new ground in travel in the the mid-70s with ‘older adult travellers’, created travel ‘programs’ not ‘products’ and were always willing to share their knowledge with others. When I read this article and indeed Borsteins book — Elderhoste/Exploratas was top of mind.
