10 tips young entrepreneurs can use to be taken more seriously in their field

One of the obstacles that many young entrepreneurs face is being taken seriously by other established leaders in their field. Even potential clients can often find it difficult to trust a young, newbie entrepreneur with their projects and demands. But age and lack of experience should not create an insurmountable barrier.

Below, 10 members of the Young Entrepreneur Council offer the advice they would give to any young entrepreneur facing this hurdle right now and why that particular advice has helped them on their own journey as young entrepreneurs .

1. Believe in yourself and your product

Young entrepreneurs need to have deep confidence in themselves and their product. At such an early and vulnerable stage of business, it is easy to be influenced by others, especially those considered experts in their field. You might have an idea that no one has thought of before, including the experts, and you need to protect yourself and that idea from the opinions of others. You may find yourself influenced not to pursue or convinced that you can't accomplish it because no one else could, but that should never stop you. - McCullough Shriver, Sweetflexx

2. Focus on learning your craft

Remember that every downside is nothing more than a positive benefit in disguise. I started out as a 14-year-old entrepreneur who really struggled to be taken seriously. However, it had an upside: my approach brought out the mentorship instinct in many people I worked with. If you're not taken seriously because you're young, don't focus on the respect that decades of experience deserve. Instead, focus on learning your craft as thoroughly as possible and asking others questions. The rest will come with time. - Tyler Bray, TK Trailer Parts

3. Developing thought leadership

Entrepreneurs and everyday people alike are attracted to leaders who can bring unique insight and provide actionable, actionable advice. That's why I recommend demonstrating your expertise using content. This can be producing short videos, writing long articles on quality websites, or even building your LinkedIn or Substack followers by offering intriguing content. Over time, thought leadership will help you earn respect and even inspire some established entrepreneurs to follow your lead. - Ron Lieback, ContentMender

4. Listen more than you talk

There is a fine line between necessary confidence and unnecessary arrogance. As a young entrepreneur, you have to understand this simple difference. Often, overconfidence breeds arrogance and disrespect towards others. I try to listen to people more than I talk. Listening to someone with your full attention is a good way to convey a sense of respect. When I'm sitting in a team meeting or facing other senior entrepreneurs, I try to be the last person...