The number of women owned businesses has increased dramatically to approximately 30% in recent years. It was reported by WomenAble.com that:
“As of 2016, it is estimated that there are now 11.3 million (11,313,900) women-owned businesses in the United States, employing nearly 9 million people (8,976,100) and generating over $1.6 trillion ($1,622,763,800,000) in revenues.”
-and-
“Women are now the majority owners of 38% of the country’s businesses, up from 29% in 2007.”
Wow .. talk about empowering!
So how do these women do it? They juggle a business, coupled with a family life, and also usually are part of the sandwich generation.
Here are 6 tips that will set you well on your way to becoming successful, while still maintaining the home front, some semblance of a work-life balance, and keep moving forward.
1) Choose something you love
When you are passionate about what you do, it translates into the work you produce. Start in an industry that you are extremely enthusiastic about. When you are excited about what you are offering, it will get your clients excited as well. They will in turn want to learn more.
2) Work it around your personal goals
If your schedule is hectic with soccer practices and other family events, you can work your business schedule around this. It is not written as a rule that you must work full time in order to be successful. In fact, if you are not fulfilling your personal obligations you will ultimately feel like a failure in both aspects of your life.
3) Do not mix business with pleasure
Keep your personal life and business life completely separate. Try to set specific office hours that are scheduled around your personal life. Be adamant that you are at work, do not check personal emails or take personal calls during this time. Try to have a different location for your office and keep your door shut to avoid interruptions.
4) Use technology to your advantage
Technology is a wonderful thing, but can also be distracting. Especially if you have a flashing message every time you get a personal message. Try to set a certain time to check these emails and remain consistent with it. Also, let your voice mail take your calls, set a specific time of the day to check and return these calls.
5) Get connected
Not just on the internet, but within your community. Working at home by yourself can be a lonely world. Form organizations or groups for other women just like yourself. This will give you a network of support.
6) Develop a brand
What does your company stand for? How is it defined? You will need business cards and flyers with your company logo. But a brand is so much more than that .. it’s your inner core values. You may also think of a catchy slogan that will bring in more clients. Be consistent with your message so that it is a way for your clients to remember you and gain your trust.
Accept all the challenges and the rewards will surely follow. Being a woman entrepreneur will be hard .. as every entrepreneurial endeavor is, regardless of your gender. However, it is incredibly rewarding and I know with a bit of elbow grease and a bit of planning, you can increase that women-owned businesses percentage.
As Rosie said, “We Can Do It!”
