This blog was written by Emil Persson and Gloria Bribi of InspiNest
If Instagram was the official business registry of private companies in Ghana, the country would probably be the country in the world with the most CEOs per capita.
The entrepreneurial trend over the last 10-15 years in Ghana has lead to almost anyone, who is selling something through WhatsApp or Instagram, titling themselves as the CEO, even though they are the only employee in a usually non-registered business. This is quite contradictory to the actual title itself, which actually means:
A chief executive officer, also known as a central executive officer, chief administrator officer or just chief executive, is one of a number of corporate executives charged with the management of an organization.
Just imagine a CEO-summit in Ghana where everyone who is selling something on WhatsApp or Instagram shows up to discuss CEO thematics and issues with the ones who are actually CEOs of large organizations with thousands of employees and CFOs, CTOs and CCOs as part of their executive team.
The widespread urge to be a CEO in Ghana is not a problem. It’s good. It means that people aspire to become succesful entrepreneurs. But if it only takes the effort of setting up an Instagram profile and selling a few items to title yourself a CEO – it is too easy.
“A real CEO” is something only a few are capable of becoming after many years of experience with management, business strategy and leadership.
EVERYONE WANTS TO BE A CEO
In today’s business landscape, it seems like everyone wants to be a CEO. Even small business owners and solopreneurs are adopting the title, despite not necessarily having a large team or the typical responsibilities that come with the role. But why is this the case? Why has the title of CEO become so desirable?
One reason is that the title of CEO is associated with success and leadership. In our culture and media, CEOs are often portrayed as powerful and successful individuals who have made it to the top of their industries. This perception has led many people to believe that the title of CEO represents achievement and status.
Many people believe that entrepreneurship is only about starting a business and becoming the CEO. In reality, entrepreneurship is a much broader concept that includes the establishment, management, and growth of a business or venture.
This misunderstanding of the term CEO in relation to entrepreneurship can lead to a focus on titles and positions, rather than the actual work and effort required to build a successful business. Many aspiring entrepreneurs may be more focused on achieving the title of CEO than on developing the necessary skills and expertise to effectively lead a team and grow a business.
Additionally, this focus on titles can lead to an unrealistic view of what it means to be an entrepreneur. The reality is that being an entrepreneur often involves long hours, hard work, and a willingness to take risks and make difficult decisions. While the title of CEO may sound glamorous, it is important to recognize that it is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to building a successful business.
Not all entrepreners are cut out for the role of CEO. While some may excel at the strategic and visionary aspects of the role, others may struggle with the day-to-day management and operational tasks that are necessary for success. It is important for entrepreneurs to recognize their strengths and weaknesses and to build a team that can support them in areas where they may not be as proficient.
It is important for aspiring entrepreneurs to recognize that entrepreneurship is about focusing on developing the skills and expertise necessary to build a successful and sustainable business.
Ultimately, it is the actions and results that matter most, not a title.
