It’s true that women don’t like asking for money, and walking into a room full of men and asking for money is especially daunting. But as mentioned before, that’s because the system doesn’t support them. So let’s focus on that instead. That’s why we need to get more female angels, people who invest their own money, because women are more likely to support women. At the end of the day, it shouldn’t matter whether you’re asking a man or a woman, as long as you understand your business case. But to change the root of the problem and get more women-led businesses off the ground, just over 14% of angel investors in the UK need to be women.
3. No one will network for you.
As a female entrepreneur, you have to make uncomfortable situations comfortable. It is unlikely that we have access to the same professional networks and opportunities as our male contemporaries. Without building this kind of support system, you cannot expect your business to grow.
The good news is that there are many organizations willing to help. That’s why I founded Allbright, a Barclays Eagle Lab that supports entrepreneurs at the pastoral level through mentorship and networking programs, and connects private investors with businesses in need of an infusion of capital. was established for.
Find what works for you and your business, and accept that stepping out of your comfort zone can only be good.
4. You need to take responsibility for your health and how it affects your work.
The UK could unlock huge potential if women were able to continue their careers after having children and menopause. According to online women’s health hub The Better Menopause, a quarter of women who have reached menopause want to quit their jobs because of menopause, and 75% of people over 45 experience symptoms. Therefore, this can be a big problem not only for women. It is important not only the woman herself, but also her productivity level.
However, most companies are unaware of the challenges women’s health poses. Try to talk about your health openly. Part of that is setting boundaries as an entrepreneur and being prepared to say no when necessary.
5. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to work-life balance
Women entrepreneurs must manage external expectations while navigating their work. Society encourages women to pursue goals rooted in human resource development. We are told that everything depends on getting married and being a good wife, and having children and being a good mother. After that, I will retire early and become a good grandmother. Newsflash – you can get all this and build your own business.
In fact, one of the great benefits of being self-employed is that you can operate on your own clock. But whatever it is, you have to take time for yourself. Otherwise, you will burn out quickly. Be realistic and set a personal routine that works for you. Once work or “mom guilt” kicks in, you have to shut up your self-criticism. If you don’t, you’ll end up getting beaten up.
6. We can succeed as we age.
There are no two choices about that. Society glamorizes young people. Don’t give in to this prejudice. It’s never too late to start a business. The older you get, the more life experience you have and the more connections you can make, even if you don’t realize it.
