Female entrepreneurs make some of the best business people in the world, often as a result of being better multi-taskers than their male counterparts. Unfortunately, women are often faced with the difficult challenge of balancing work with family life. As a result, many women do not believe they can have both a career and a family.
Successful businesswomen would argue that a successful career and a family life are possible with a little determination, organisation and ambition. Almost as important as having these attributes is having a support network behind you, such as a reliable and understanding husband, partner or relatives. For example, you may have to rely on a family member to look after young children occasionally whilst you attend a business meeting.
Tips to become a successful businesswoman:
1. Look for a business mentor
Having someone to learn from and be inspired by is often quoted as being an important element in achieving success. Being at the top of the business hierarchy can often be lonely because those who work for you believe you know everything.
2. Surround yourself with good people
Successful businesses are built by hard working employees. It is important that you have good people working for you because you will come to rely on them to help shape and drive your business forward.
3. Be realistic when it comes to balancing work with family Although it can be argued that a successful career and family life are both achievable, it is also important to be realistic about what you can and cannot do. Working hours must be flexible if you have young children to look after. Many mothers can juggle career and family if working from home is an option.
4. Start your business based on something that interests you For women starting out as a self-employed entrepreneur, developing and growing a business is easier to achieve if it is based on an interest, hobby or something that they enjoy doing. This can be said for any project you undertake. If you enjoy what you do, you are more likely to drive forward with enthusiasm and determination.
5. Research your market
Vital to business success is conducting appropriate market research. There is no point starting a business based on something you love if there is no place for it in the market. Market research should include identifying consumer trends and conducting competitor analysis. You should also consider the type of business and its location. For example, starting up an umbrella company next to an established retailer is likely to be a bad decision.
6. Don’t give up too easily
If at first you don’t succeed, try and try again! This is a famous saying that holds some truth. Determination is one of the most valuable attributes an entrepreneur can have. Starting a business is challenging, but with ambition and a positive attitude, you can achieve your goals. Having said this, it is also important to appreciate that sometimes not everything goes to plan. You should also be prepared for this and react accordingly.