Business has often been perceived as a man’s world. However, recent years have seen a significant shift. More and more women, who perhaps in the past were the strength behind their husbands’ businesses, are stepping into the spotlight and starting their own ventures.
When I first began my career as a Business Mentor, I joined an accredited body with 85% male members. At my first meeting, it was immediately assumed that I was the P.A. to the guest speaker. This was not a great start, but it highlighted the rarity of seeing Business Advisers (as we were known then) wearing red lipstick and high black boots.
As a female Business Mentor, I remain in the minority. The skills, knowledge, and experience that enable me to be effective must be built up over time; there are no shortcuts. Many women are well into this journey, having gained substantial business experience.
One of the great things about working with women is their openness to learning and accepting help, recognising it as a strength. Feedback from several of my female clients indicates that they value my ability to listen. They can share their thoughts and ideas without fear, especially while those ideas are still forming.
Because our minds often work differently from men’s, women may need help structuring their thoughts and building a framework within which to operate. Distractions are common, particularly for those balancing work and family life. Many women have a clear vision of what they want to achieve and benefit from assistance with strategic planning, maintaining focus, and getting back on track when obstacles arise.
Starting a new business is one thing, but growing it brings many new challenges, including hiring staff, finding premises, and raising finance. This is when the benefits of working closely with a Business Mentor can make a real difference. However, knowing you need support is one thing; finding the right Business Mentor is another. I’ve heard complaints about coaches who are patronising, don’t listen, or impose a rigid methodology regardless of the client’s needs, or provide an unmanageable ‘to-do’ list.
A significant issue many women face is a lack of confidence. Confidence develops over time; the more business success you experience, the more confident you become. Training to develop your craft and business skills also boosts confidence. None of us are born with an abundance of self-confidence, but our life experiences, the skills we develop, and our attitude towards achieving success are what build it.
I see my role as a Mentor as supporting both the development of the business and the person leading it. Transitioning from working alone, often from the kitchen table, to running a company and managing staff and finances is a significant step. It can be a lonely place, and having someone on your side, supporting and guiding you, is invaluable. This is my role as a Trusted Adviser.
As a Business Mentor, Adviser, Coach, or Consultant, my role is to listen, to know when to advise, offer solutions, and sometimes to challenge.
Contact me to find out how working with a mentor can help you and your business grow.
