Female Founders: 7 Reasons why now is the Best Time to start a Business
There’s never been a better time for women to start up, because of the success of Female Founders.
Topics: 20% Pay Difference, < Barriers to Entry, Social Attitudes, in Control, Challenge, Raising Capital, Using Technology
With job satisfaction at an all-time low, it’s no wonder so many people are seeking alternatives — including starting a business. In the last few years, there’s been a huge increase in women-owned businesses. For many different reasons, more & more women are getting in the driver’s seat and in the process, they’re also paving the way for other women. If you’re a woman and thinking about starting a business yourself, your timing couldn’t be better. Below, 7 successful founders discuss why now is a great time for women to start a business:
1. Pay 80% of Men is just isn’t good enough. In the modern day, it can be tempting for us to think that the hard work of ensuring equality is over. The truth is, it’s just beginning. Despite the passage of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, women still make 80 cents on the dollar on average. One surefire way to be certain you’re paid fairly? Become your own boss. – Melissa Roberts, Free State Strategy Group
2. Barriers to Entry have never been easier to overcome. I’ve always said now a good time for women or anyone to open a business: the barriers of entry to do business have never been easier to overcome. Technology has lowered startup costs, women have access to women-only funding options and can more easily – leverage social capital. – Stef Newlon, SYN3RGY Creative Group
3. Social Attitudes are changing. We’re more aware of sexism when it shows its face as well, and more willing to take action to challenge it. – Steven Buchwald & Associates
4. You’re in Control of your own Destiny. Starting a company undoubtedly comes with a certain level of risk. However, it also provides a sense of control that you can no longer get in a corporate setting. As companies reduce benefits and place limitations on how far women can grow within the organization, entrepreneurship offers the opposite. Starting a company gives women (& men) more choice, more flexibility and more opportunity. – Jules Taggart, Marketing Strategy
5. More leading Women exist to “challenge” pre-conceptions, The business world is starting to shed long-held negative notions about women, and it shows. While certain industries still have a long way to go, personalities such as Meg/HP, Bara/General Motors, Sara/Spanx, Ginni/IBM, Sheryl/Facebook, Oprah, Barb & Lori/Shark Tank are paving the way for female entrepreneurs. Peter/CXO 5 Star Startup Services
6. Raising Capital is becoming easier for Women entrepreneurs. Research has shown that women-led companies perform better than companies with no women in leadership positions. Investors are beginning to catch on to this research. More women-focused investment groups have been forming, such as the Pipeline Angels, Golden Seeds & Astia. I’ve personally found that there are more and more investors who want to support women-led companies! – Lisa Curtis, Kuli Kuli
7. Use of Technology. Women now have the opportunity, more than ever, to work from any location at almost any hour, and can still be competitive running a company. Additionally, technology allows women to have greater access to other women – who are the primary decision makers in household spending. Women can use technology to help each other & create sustainable businesses at the same time. – Aimee Kandrac, WhatFriendsDo
QUOTES: from outstanding Female Leaders
“Destiny is a name often given – in retrospect – to choices that had dramatic consequences.” — J. K. Rowling/Harry Potter
“Every time you state what you want or believe, you’re the first to hear it. It’s a message to both you & others about what you think is possible. Don’t put a ceiling on yourself.” – Oprah Winfrey,
“Don’t limit yourself. Many people limit themselves to what they think they can do. You can go as far as your mind lets you. What you believe, , you can achieve.” – Mary Kay Ash, Cosmetics
“Fearlessness is like a muscle. I know that the more I exercise it, the more natural it becomes to not let my fears run me.” – Arianna Huffington, Huff Post Media Group
“Embrace what you don’t know, especially in the beginning, because what you don’t know can become your greatest asset. It ensures that you will absolutely be doing things different from everybody else.” – Sara Blakely, SPANX
“The important thing is not being afraid to take a chance. Remember, the greatest failure is to not try. Once you find something you love to do, be the best at doing it.” – Debbi Fields, Cookies
“So often people are working hard at the wrong thing. Working on the right thing is probably more important than working hard.” – Caterina, Flickr
Comments: Do you have any other reasons why it’s a good time for a woman to start a Business?
from INC Zine 14 July 16 enhanced by Peter/CXO Wiz4biz