9 Pieces Of Advice For Women Pursuing Entrepreneurship Careers

 Women entrepreneurs face more challenges in the workplace than men, but two experts offer tips on how their female counterparts can survive and thrive at the helm.

Successful entrepreneurs both male and female are at risk for mental health issues due to the built-in pressures of the role. A total of 72% of successful entrepreneurs experience depression, chronic anxiety, and other mental health issues. Mental health issues are especially challenging for women, according to Deloitte’s Women @ Work 2024: A Global Outlook report 43% of women cited non-inclusive behaviors in the workplace in the past year.

The study also reveals high rates of burnout among women executives, with 50% stating their stress is greater in 2024 than a year ago. Over one-third report burnout a state from unmanaged stress in which they are unable to function at their usual level. They don’t feel comfortable talking about their mental health, fearing it might affect their careers. Many say they don’t receive adequate mental health support from their employers.

The challenges for women in entrepreneurship are greater than for men. Companies must establish gender equity initiatives to support female leadership success in the workforce. Despite these roadblocks, the spirit of women entrepreneurship is vibrant. More and more female entrepreneurs are looking past obstacles and reaching the top of their game.

Four Tips For Female Leaders To Thrive At The Helm

Throughout her two decades in male-centric industries, Alla Schay, Asurint’s new CEO, has learned many lessons from female mentors and male colleagues. Schay has worked with some of the most well-known female leaders, including Ann Hopkins, who sued PWC in the 1980s for gender discrimination and won to become partner.

As Schay takes the helm at Asurint, she shares four key tips for women who want to become leaders:

1. Build and Maintain Connections

   Schay says that developing and maintaining relationships is crucial for success. “Connect with your colleagues, get to know your managers and peers, and find mentors that you can learn from, and who can even learn from you,” she advises. “These connections will support you, celebrate your successes, open doors to opportunities, and foster your growth. Remember to help other women as you climb by giving back through mentorship and connection.”

2. Embrace the “Oh Shit” Moments

   Schay explains that these moments are powerful for growth. “The points in my career where I’ve been most challenged are the moments I see the most growth in myself,” she says. “Don’t shy away from taking these challenges head-on. These are the best opportunities for you to learn, adapt, and become stronger for the next stage of your career.”

3. Be Confident in Your Unique Perspective and Strengths

   Schay emphasizes that your individuality is your greatest asset. “Know your strengths and the value you bring, and lean into those areas when you’re unsure or taking on a new task,” she suggests. “Share your opinion confidently—there’s a reason you’ve been given a voice or a seat at the table.”

4. Practice Continuous Learning and Adaptability

   Schay points out that today’s workplace is constantly evolving. “I learn something new every day, and it’s why I love my job and this industry,” she admits. “Commit to lifelong learning and instill that mindset in your team. As women, we should stay dedicated to collaboration, integrity, and solidarity. We can redefine entrepreneurship's future and pave the way for upcoming generations of female leaders.”

Five P’s Women Entrepreneurs Need

Laura Robinson, an Ontario-born entrepreneur, has been inventing games and selling laughter for forty years. Her success includes creating the international mega-hit, Balderdash, and producing the hit show, Celebrity Name Game.

Robinson cites five P’s for women entrepreneurs: passion, packaging, pitching, persistence, and pivoting.

1. Passion: Robinson explains that passion for your ideas gets the process started.

2. Package: Create a package with research showing why your product is better than what’s out there and if there’s a place for it in the market.

3. Pitch: Pitch your idea until someone accepts it.

4. Persistence: If the pitch falls short, keep knocking on doors.

5. Pivot: If persistence isn’t working, pivot and try something different to get your message out.

Robinson insists that with passion and belief, women entrepreneurs can achieve their goals. “I’ve made millions of people laugh all over the world,” she concludes. “That’s a good feeling.”

By : Mustafa Gai @MrGai24, Freelance Writer and Translator

Keywords

women entrepreneurs, entrepreneurship tips, female leadership, mental health in entrepreneurship, burnout in women executives, gender equity, business success, leadership advice, building connections, career growth, continuous learning, passion in business, pitching ideas, persistence in entrepreneurship, pivoting in business.

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