There are over 12.3 million women-owned businesses in the United States alone. Owning a business is a tough job, and women face even more hardships as business owners due to sexual harassment, lower wages, and unconscious bias.
But don’t let that discourage you—succeeding as a business owner is within reach. If you’re a female business owner, take a look at these four valuable things you should know about your chosen career path.
1. Get a Mentor
Getting a fellow female mentor, especially in the early days of entrepreneurship, will help you and your business grow. Find another female entrepreneur who has been in the industry for at least ten years.
Her guidance and advice will help you prevent potential missteps as you grow your business. Plus, having a trusted mentor is helpful when you’re dealing with complex business decisions for the first time. If you don’t have a mentor, check out this website for entrepreneur guides and tips.
2. Don’t Let Anyone Underestimate You
Due to unconscious bias, women are often underestimated in the workplace. While this obstacle is frustrating and unfair, it’s vital to do everything you can to fight unconscious bias while running a business.
Fighting unconscious bias involves fighting for equality and transparency. Don’t be afraid to fight for your ideas and decisions and double down on rejections you feel are inappropriate.
In unavoidable times of underestimation, remember your worth. Taking the time to appreciate the effort you’ve put into your business, and your growth will help you gain confidence in your leadership.
3. Seek Funding Opportunities
In most states, women have access to unique funding opportunities. These business grants offer not only extra money, but also provide generous tax incentives and networking opportunities.
While venture capitalism is also male-dominated, you shouldn’t hesitate to seek general funding and investment opportunities. Without proper funding, you may experience stifled business growth.
Aggressively vouching for your business’s success is an essential part of gaining funding, so don’t be afraid to defend yourself and your business.
4. Lean Into Your Femininity
Even though entrepreneurship is a boys club, that doesn’t mean you have to be one of the boys. Embracing your femininity and power as a female business owner simply means leaning into your advantages as a woman.
For example, studies show that women react better to a crisis. Plus, women approach difficult situations with more empathy. Using these advantages will help you become a fantastic leader without sacrificing your identity.
Being a woman entrepreneur gives you a powerful platform. By setting an example for other women, you’ll help the cause against gender discrimination. One way to set the standard is ensuring transparent and fair wages.
Becoming a Fearless Female Business Owner
Knowing these four business tips will help you manage your career as a female business owner. By sidestepping career obstacles with ease, you’ll grow into a powerful girl boss and a positive role model for other women. Take the next step and continue to grow your business career by browsing our other insightful posts. We offer more business guides, management and finance trends, and more.
