Women entrepreneurs are taking the business world by storm. However clear their success may appear though, there are still unseen barriers and obstacles that stand in their way, threatening their success.
Barrier One: Social Expectations
Social expectations are probably one of the biggest unseen barriers women entrepreneurs face. Many female business owners go to networking events and crowded seminars only to count the number of other women in attendance on just one hand. Sometimes women feel they need to have more of a male attitude regarding business.
For example, they may feel they must become more competitive and aggressive to stand out. However, a successful woman entrepreneur will remain true to herself; her voice is the key to overcoming these preconceived social expectations.
Barrier Two: Finding Funding
If you have a startup business in need of funding, then you probably know how hard it can be to find investors. This is expounded for women entrepreneurs. A venture capitalist is more inclined to invest in a startup run by someone they relate with more. That means that a company with male partners isn’t as likely to invest in a company led by a female.
So, women entrepreneurs need to build their confidence and develop a solid business plan before approaching potential investors.
Barrier Three: Finding a Place in a Male-Dominated Industry
Many women will find themselves in a male-dominated industry. And many workplaces may not recognize their leadership role, making earning respect a real challenge. Women need to work to build their reputations, boost their confidence, and overcome negative self-talk. Negative comments festering in the mind can stop anyone from achieving their full potential.
Barrier Four: Finding a Supportive Network
For any entrepreneur to succeed, they need the right support system. Many female entrepreneurs struggle to find mentors or advisors, which can limit their professional growth. A good place to start to overcome this barrier is by visiting more women-focused networking events and online forums. Once you establish a support system, don’t be afraid to ask for help and advice.
Barrier Five: Finding a Work-Life Balance
Another unseen barrier many women entrepreneurs face is finding the right work-life balance. In addition to their professional responsibilities, women also have to support their families. The good news is that corporate culture today is changing and is allowing women more flexibility.
Becoming a successful woman entrepreneur and working for yourself is the next best step toward freedom and finding the perfect balance. Need more inspiration, or looking for more tools to help with this?
The OM Factor is now available in audiobook format for easy listening. It is full of helpful tools and resources you can use as a woman finding her place in the world of business.
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