What is Women Business Enterprise (WBE) certification and what advantages does it give your small business?
As a woman-owned business, you may have been directed to certification by your clients. If you are a woman-owned business that is in the transportation industry, for instance, then you may have a client is looking for a woman-owned company to perform a certain percentage of their work. Since they already know, like and trust you, they may encourage you to get the certification so they can "check the box" so to speak. In other cases, a woman-owned business will seek out certifications with the hope that it will yield opportunities. Depending on where you go to gain the certification will determine what types of opportunities you can expect to get.
There are usually WBE certifications available at the State, County or City level. These certifications are particularly useful if your company is looking for contracts with those agencies. WBE certifications can also be obtained on a National level by various certifying agencies. The main national certifying agencies are the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), the National Women's Business Owners Council (NWBOC) and the United States Women's Chamber of Commerce (USWCC).
Certification from the aforementioned agencies will oftentimes, allow you to streamline the process with other agencies. The SBA's Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB) program, for instance, allows WBE certification from one of these companies to be considered 3rd party verification. This 3rd party verification greatly reduces the amount of documentation that is required to certify a business entity as a WOSB.
Another great benefit of certification from these agencies is their extensive corporate memberships. These agencies have relationships with major corporations that are looking to procure goods and services from women-owned businesses. A lot of the Fortune 500 companies will participate in some form of diversity procurement efforts because it's a Win-Win proposition for the company. It is good for the small business community when contracts are awarded to small local business. The benefits to the company are several; the corporation will often get tax incentives if thresholds are met with their procurement needs, the company gets the positive public perception by buying from small business, and the shareholders benefit from the positive public image by increasing stock prices
So not only can certification assist you in obtaining Federal, State County and city contracts, but also in the commercial sector.Gaining your WBE certification is not nearly as arduous and in depth as some of the others. So, if you think it could provide you with a competitive advantage, then educate yourself on the process or Certification Consultants LLC to see if we can assist you.
What is Time to the Woman Business and Spiritual Leader?
While contemplating what I would write about this week, I was reminded about how often I seem to 'run out of time'. As any true blooded entrepreneur and a woman in service, I often 'bite off more than I can chew" which I have heard my mother remind me of since I was a child.
Like many women, I have numerous obligations, fill multiple roles, and have projects with deadlines... all of which require the use of time... which I never seem to have enough of.
Many spiritual traditions do not believe in "time" as we know it; linear and able to be calculated, and that is a subject for a whole other article (or book!). Rather than waxing philosophical, I will inject a lighter note:
I love this story to which I believe we all might be able to relate (at least at some point in our lives).
A woodcutter, who is constantly exhausted by his frantic chopping all through the day, is afraid to stop knowing he has many obligations to fulfill. A friend comes by one day to talk with him about his exhausting work and to ask the woodcutter if he could inspect his axe.
After running his fingers up and down the blade, he advises his friend to take a few minutes to sharpen his axe; "your work will be easier and go more quickly". To which the woodcutter replied, "I can't... I just don't have the time"...
How many of us have been where the woodcutter is? I have to admit that this is often a familiar scenario for me. The mind-set of the woodcutter is such that he cannot see the forest for the tree (pardon the pun). I can get so dug in to what I am doing and to what still remains to be accomplished within given time frames that I often fail to see that I have a "dull axe"... even when people point it out to me!
In order to 'sharpen the axe' what can I do to have more time to accomplish what I have committed to?
1. When awakening, while in that state before full consciousness, I can begin with connecting to my Deity and surrendering my day and all of its activities to Divine guidance
2. Although challenging for me who has "done so much on my own" (or so I think), I can exercise my trust muscle. Surrendering to Divine guidance requires trust.
3. Sometime before I start my work, I can engage in a spiritual practice; studying in the faith of my choosing, reading inspirational material, journaling, engaging in yoga, (or others), meditation, contemplation, prayer...
4. Throughout the day (especially when I feel stressed and under pressure), I can take a few minutes to leave my desk (or the place of my work) and intentionally return to a state of peace. 5 - 10 minutes outside in nature, relaxing with a favorite cup of brew, or playing my favorite music (how 'bout a little dancing?)
5. And let me not forget the importance of preparing for sleep... A review of the day's accomplishments, and not what I didn't do or that still remains to be done, in a state of gratitude for those accomplishments will develop my trust muscle. After all, this is a process!
I am sure you can think of ways that you personally might 'sharpen your axe'.
Ruth Reiner is an ordained minister in the Interfaith tradition, spiritual counselor, professional nurse, certified life coach, and successful entrepreneur. She is president and co-founder of 'The International Association of Women Spiritual Leaders'. Ruth has two adult daughters with families/four grandchildren.
Like many women, I have numerous obligations, fill multiple roles, and have projects with deadlines... all of which require the use of time... which I never seem to have enough of.
Many spiritual traditions do not believe in "time" as we know it; linear and able to be calculated, and that is a subject for a whole other article (or book!). Rather than waxing philosophical, I will inject a lighter note:
I love this story to which I believe we all might be able to relate (at least at some point in our lives).
A woodcutter, who is constantly exhausted by his frantic chopping all through the day, is afraid to stop knowing he has many obligations to fulfill. A friend comes by one day to talk with him about his exhausting work and to ask the woodcutter if he could inspect his axe.
After running his fingers up and down the blade, he advises his friend to take a few minutes to sharpen his axe; "your work will be easier and go more quickly". To which the woodcutter replied, "I can't... I just don't have the time"...
How many of us have been where the woodcutter is? I have to admit that this is often a familiar scenario for me. The mind-set of the woodcutter is such that he cannot see the forest for the tree (pardon the pun). I can get so dug in to what I am doing and to what still remains to be accomplished within given time frames that I often fail to see that I have a "dull axe"... even when people point it out to me!
In order to 'sharpen the axe' what can I do to have more time to accomplish what I have committed to?
1. When awakening, while in that state before full consciousness, I can begin with connecting to my Deity and surrendering my day and all of its activities to Divine guidance
2. Although challenging for me who has "done so much on my own" (or so I think), I can exercise my trust muscle. Surrendering to Divine guidance requires trust.
3. Sometime before I start my work, I can engage in a spiritual practice; studying in the faith of my choosing, reading inspirational material, journaling, engaging in yoga, (or others), meditation, contemplation, prayer...
4. Throughout the day (especially when I feel stressed and under pressure), I can take a few minutes to leave my desk (or the place of my work) and intentionally return to a state of peace. 5 - 10 minutes outside in nature, relaxing with a favorite cup of brew, or playing my favorite music (how 'bout a little dancing?)
5. And let me not forget the importance of preparing for sleep... A review of the day's accomplishments, and not what I didn't do or that still remains to be done, in a state of gratitude for those accomplishments will develop my trust muscle. After all, this is a process!
I am sure you can think of ways that you personally might 'sharpen your axe'.
Ruth Reiner is an ordained minister in the Interfaith tradition, spiritual counselor, professional nurse, certified life coach, and successful entrepreneur. She is president and co-founder of 'The International Association of Women Spiritual Leaders'. Ruth has two adult daughters with families/four grandchildren.
Woman Business Loans UK - Inspiring Women Entrepreneurs
Women of UK have proofed their rights and existence not only in family limitations but also in corporate sector. They had well established themselves in every sector and had given fruitful results and had set examples not to give hope. Thus, to create every possible opportunity for women, funds are advanced in the form of loans. With the help of women business loans UK, they can set a business of their own rather then rely on somebody.
The objectives and aims of women business loans UK is to finance for setting up a new business, use the fund to expand the existing business, to takeover another business, purchase equipments or machineries for business and paying business dues. Despite the mentioned objectives, women can use the loan to meet every business related ends.
In UK, lenders have come up with women business loans UK to provide advance with competitive rates. The applicants need to search in the competitive market the low offers, favourable terms and also suitable according to financial ability and then she can click on for a reliable deal.
Women business loans UK are classified into two options like any other loans: secured and unsecured loans. In secured option, applicants have to place collateral for approval of the loans. This option can be availed by those women who have collateral to place. Collateral accepted are home, car, land, estate etc. Applicants can secure large amount of loan under this option for a long repayment term. And women without or unwilling to place collateral can apply for unsecured women business loans UK.
The UK women can also avail the women business loans UK through online mode. Approaching a lender and approval becomes much simpler and convenient through this mode. It is a low cost application method, faster than tradition method and moreover saves time. The female applicant can approach despite their bad credit score but with a little high rate of interest than offered to a good credit scorer. The female business entrepreneurs can improve their financial status by being regular in the instalments.
Thus, women business loans UK helps every women applicant to establish their own identity through business sector.
The objectives and aims of women business loans UK is to finance for setting up a new business, use the fund to expand the existing business, to takeover another business, purchase equipments or machineries for business and paying business dues. Despite the mentioned objectives, women can use the loan to meet every business related ends.
In UK, lenders have come up with women business loans UK to provide advance with competitive rates. The applicants need to search in the competitive market the low offers, favourable terms and also suitable according to financial ability and then she can click on for a reliable deal.
Women business loans UK are classified into two options like any other loans: secured and unsecured loans. In secured option, applicants have to place collateral for approval of the loans. This option can be availed by those women who have collateral to place. Collateral accepted are home, car, land, estate etc. Applicants can secure large amount of loan under this option for a long repayment term. And women without or unwilling to place collateral can apply for unsecured women business loans UK.
The UK women can also avail the women business loans UK through online mode. Approaching a lender and approval becomes much simpler and convenient through this mode. It is a low cost application method, faster than tradition method and moreover saves time. The female applicant can approach despite their bad credit score but with a little high rate of interest than offered to a good credit scorer. The female business entrepreneurs can improve their financial status by being regular in the instalments.
Thus, women business loans UK helps every women applicant to establish their own identity through business sector.
A Great Time To Be a Woman Business Owner
I have been a business owner since 2001. If you are woman business owner, this is your year, this is your time to get serious about local, state and federal prime and sub-contracting opportunities. If you live near a major urban area, first look into certification within the nearest city.
For example, I live just north of Houston, so because I live in an adjoining county, Montgomery, my business is eligible to apply for certification with the City of Houston. The application did take time, but it was worth it. My company is certified Woman-owned and Disadvantage Business Enterprise. The certification acronym is W/DBE. The City offers certification for women and minority business owners.
The City has agreements with several other municipal-based organizations, so in addition to being able to bid on set-aside contracts at the City, I can also bid on Port Authority of Houston, and METRO. The City has agreements with the Texas Unified Certification Program, so my company is also recognized with the state level - Texas Department of Transportation.
Note: Another perk for women business owners who are TXDOT DBE certified in highway construction codes can qualify for up to $10K in training through the TXDOT Technical Assistance Program (TXDOT TAP). I challenge you to find the local contracting agency and start your application asap.
At the state level, Texas offers a program called Texas HUB - Historically Underutilized Businesses. This is currently available to women and minority business owners, but in 2011 they are considering opening it up to Service Disabled Veterans as well. Check out if your state offers a special certification for women business owners.
And now at the federal level, there are two SBA programs to consider applying to: Women Owned Small Business (WOSB) and the SBA 8(a) program. If your business is currently certified as a SBA 8(a) business, you will be eligible for the new WOSB certification as well. Check out both of these programs at the SBA government website. Expect to wait about 90 days (at the least) to hear back from the SBA on 8(a) certification, there is a back log ever since all of the new federal programs opened up with the new administration.
As a SBA certified business, you are eligible to bid on big dollar contracts. However you will most likely find a niche to work as a subcontractor to a prime, because you need to build a track record of federal work. And of course, the primes are looking for good subcontractors because they get incentives from the government to include small business participation.
For example, I live just north of Houston, so because I live in an adjoining county, Montgomery, my business is eligible to apply for certification with the City of Houston. The application did take time, but it was worth it. My company is certified Woman-owned and Disadvantage Business Enterprise. The certification acronym is W/DBE. The City offers certification for women and minority business owners.
The City has agreements with several other municipal-based organizations, so in addition to being able to bid on set-aside contracts at the City, I can also bid on Port Authority of Houston, and METRO. The City has agreements with the Texas Unified Certification Program, so my company is also recognized with the state level - Texas Department of Transportation.
Note: Another perk for women business owners who are TXDOT DBE certified in highway construction codes can qualify for up to $10K in training through the TXDOT Technical Assistance Program (TXDOT TAP). I challenge you to find the local contracting agency and start your application asap.
At the state level, Texas offers a program called Texas HUB - Historically Underutilized Businesses. This is currently available to women and minority business owners, but in 2011 they are considering opening it up to Service Disabled Veterans as well. Check out if your state offers a special certification for women business owners.
And now at the federal level, there are two SBA programs to consider applying to: Women Owned Small Business (WOSB) and the SBA 8(a) program. If your business is currently certified as a SBA 8(a) business, you will be eligible for the new WOSB certification as well. Check out both of these programs at the SBA government website. Expect to wait about 90 days (at the least) to hear back from the SBA on 8(a) certification, there is a back log ever since all of the new federal programs opened up with the new administration.
As a SBA certified business, you are eligible to bid on big dollar contracts. However you will most likely find a niche to work as a subcontractor to a prime, because you need to build a track record of federal work. And of course, the primes are looking for good subcontractors because they get incentives from the government to include small business participation.
Increase Sales Tip - Form an Alliance with a Woman Business Owner
Women Business Owners are an ever growing and dynamic force. Did you know that profit under women owned firms grew at a faster rate than all other firms?
Maybe you were not aware that women controlled or owned 40% of all privately held U.S. firms and these women owned businesses grew at twice the rate of other business during the last 10 years?
So if you want to increase sales, then forming an alliance with a woman business owner makes a lot of sense. However, the alliance needs to be strategic.
Strategy has a Latin origin and means to out think the enemy. So, you should begin with your strategic plan and look specifically to your vision, values and current mission.
Then, review your marketing plan and sales plan. Look to your demographics, geographic and psycho graphics. Think about complementary businesses as well as those that you might even consider competitors.
If this is the right strategy for you, then how do you find the right woman owned business? Many states have women business owned certifications. By visiting the state website, you may be able to locate woman owned businesses. Certification suggests that the company is for real and has been evaluated on some level.
If that strategy is not viable, then look through local chambers of commerce directors and identify the owner. In many cases, you can quickly determine ownership of the business. Make an outreach to these women business owners again based on your strategic plan.
At networking events, move out of our comfort zone and talk to women to learn if they are business owners. Show an authentic interest in what they are doing. If there is a connection, suggest meeting over a cup of coffee to learn more about each other's businesses and how the two of you can help each other.
Additionally, linking with permission of course to a woman business owner's website is another strategy. This linking works well especially if it is reciprocal.
What ever strategy or strategies you select, forming a strategic alliance with a woman in business may just help you increase sales. And how knows, you may actually begin to see increases in some other business indicators such as profits and longevity.
Maybe you were not aware that women controlled or owned 40% of all privately held U.S. firms and these women owned businesses grew at twice the rate of other business during the last 10 years?
So if you want to increase sales, then forming an alliance with a woman business owner makes a lot of sense. However, the alliance needs to be strategic.
Strategy has a Latin origin and means to out think the enemy. So, you should begin with your strategic plan and look specifically to your vision, values and current mission.
Then, review your marketing plan and sales plan. Look to your demographics, geographic and psycho graphics. Think about complementary businesses as well as those that you might even consider competitors.
If this is the right strategy for you, then how do you find the right woman owned business? Many states have women business owned certifications. By visiting the state website, you may be able to locate woman owned businesses. Certification suggests that the company is for real and has been evaluated on some level.
If that strategy is not viable, then look through local chambers of commerce directors and identify the owner. In many cases, you can quickly determine ownership of the business. Make an outreach to these women business owners again based on your strategic plan.
At networking events, move out of our comfort zone and talk to women to learn if they are business owners. Show an authentic interest in what they are doing. If there is a connection, suggest meeting over a cup of coffee to learn more about each other's businesses and how the two of you can help each other.
Additionally, linking with permission of course to a woman business owner's website is another strategy. This linking works well especially if it is reciprocal.
What ever strategy or strategies you select, forming a strategic alliance with a woman in business may just help you increase sales. And how knows, you may actually begin to see increases in some other business indicators such as profits and longevity.
Small Woman Business Loans - A New Achievement
It can be seen that women are going the way of starting their business alone and going all the way to establish themselves. Today more and more people are moving away from traditional employments which get oneself a regular paycheck every month. The lenders are providing small woman business loans to set up things initially and manage things for some time before the income from the business starts pouring in.
Small woman business loans are of unsecured nature and their rates are slightly higher than normal loans. These loans require no security to be provided by the borrower to the lender. These loans are of crucial help to those not having a large capital base to fund their business on their own. Small woman business loan is also helpful to those who do not have a property of their own which can be placed against any collateral and those who want to start their business from the scratch or wish to expand their existing business with the help of small woman business loan.
This loan is designed specifically for self employed women, who want to start a business of their own. One can go for secured loan but that would not be beneficial for those women who are in the initial years of staring their business. One needs to apply for this type of loan with some documents related to business proof. Business profile document is the most important document to be submitted. It contains the details of the business plan and a statement of how one wants to achieve the plan. Another important document which is required for availing this loan is the loan request document. It contains the amount to be borrowed, the period for which the loan is required and any special conditions that one wishes that the lender should bear in mind before issuing the loan amount. One can repay the loan according to one's convenience. Thus, it ensures flexibility.
If one already has an existing business and want to have small woman business loan to expand it, one need to submit the financial statements of the business. These documents contain the balance sheets and statement of the flow of cash among others. Lenders consider these statements to calculate financial position and stability. A clean credit record is mandatory. People with bad credit history like arrears, payment defaults etc are not considered eligible for these types of loans. Some states and cities have loan programs, which are targeted towards providing assistance to women. It should be kept in mind that if one lives in a community property state, then the spouse must also personally guarantee the loan. Application form can be downloaded through online process. It saves time and efforts as there is no paperwork involved in it. These loans are very helpful for women who need funds for starting a business of their own and fall short of funds.
Small woman business loans are of unsecured nature and their rates are slightly higher than normal loans. These loans require no security to be provided by the borrower to the lender. These loans are of crucial help to those not having a large capital base to fund their business on their own. Small woman business loan is also helpful to those who do not have a property of their own which can be placed against any collateral and those who want to start their business from the scratch or wish to expand their existing business with the help of small woman business loan.
This loan is designed specifically for self employed women, who want to start a business of their own. One can go for secured loan but that would not be beneficial for those women who are in the initial years of staring their business. One needs to apply for this type of loan with some documents related to business proof. Business profile document is the most important document to be submitted. It contains the details of the business plan and a statement of how one wants to achieve the plan. Another important document which is required for availing this loan is the loan request document. It contains the amount to be borrowed, the period for which the loan is required and any special conditions that one wishes that the lender should bear in mind before issuing the loan amount. One can repay the loan according to one's convenience. Thus, it ensures flexibility.
If one already has an existing business and want to have small woman business loan to expand it, one need to submit the financial statements of the business. These documents contain the balance sheets and statement of the flow of cash among others. Lenders consider these statements to calculate financial position and stability. A clean credit record is mandatory. People with bad credit history like arrears, payment defaults etc are not considered eligible for these types of loans. Some states and cities have loan programs, which are targeted towards providing assistance to women. It should be kept in mind that if one lives in a community property state, then the spouse must also personally guarantee the loan. Application form can be downloaded through online process. It saves time and efforts as there is no paperwork involved in it. These loans are very helpful for women who need funds for starting a business of their own and fall short of funds.
Woman Business Loans - Making A Platform For Woman
Many renowned organisations are guided by women and they act as strong pillar of the venture. Their success and reputation has kindled other women to jump in this profession and attain such achievements. For this reason the woman business loans are crafted. This loan scheme supports the fair sex financially to set or start their venture and take it to their expectations.
The commercial funds are offered into two forms: secured and unsecured. Secured form is a large amount of loan and is related to collateral. Borrowers can easily repay the loan because the repayment is stretched from 10-25 year. If applicants are unable to pledge collateral then they can procure funds through the unsecured loans. The latter form is a worry free loan for borrowers and released with a short repayment term of 1-10 years. The offers and benefits are open for all sorts of credit holders. So, if you are struggling with bad credit or no credit status then also you can obtain the capitals.
The funds support the borrowers to execute multiple business ends. For instance: purchasing of commercial sites, machineries, recruitment expenses, salary of employees, raw materials, maintenance of office and as related are some that can be executed in a single loan. The funds can also be invested in shares and stocks. To your astonishment all such demands can be fulfilled at reasonable cost i.e interest rates. In the market, process of availing finance by lenders has become simple and easy because numerous lenders have emerged in the market. With the emergence of numerous lenders competitive atmosphere has developed. Therefore, if applicants collate loan quotes and contrast the various offers then they can mark figures suitable for their budget. Moreover, such loans are tax saving and saves a loan amount from being taxed.
Easiest way of procuring the loan is using the e-application method. This electronic widget cuts down the burden of paper-work and enables the users to access the amount within less time spend.
So, woman business loans can now easily shape their dreams and establish themselves as symbols of success.
The commercial funds are offered into two forms: secured and unsecured. Secured form is a large amount of loan and is related to collateral. Borrowers can easily repay the loan because the repayment is stretched from 10-25 year. If applicants are unable to pledge collateral then they can procure funds through the unsecured loans. The latter form is a worry free loan for borrowers and released with a short repayment term of 1-10 years. The offers and benefits are open for all sorts of credit holders. So, if you are struggling with bad credit or no credit status then also you can obtain the capitals.
The funds support the borrowers to execute multiple business ends. For instance: purchasing of commercial sites, machineries, recruitment expenses, salary of employees, raw materials, maintenance of office and as related are some that can be executed in a single loan. The funds can also be invested in shares and stocks. To your astonishment all such demands can be fulfilled at reasonable cost i.e interest rates. In the market, process of availing finance by lenders has become simple and easy because numerous lenders have emerged in the market. With the emergence of numerous lenders competitive atmosphere has developed. Therefore, if applicants collate loan quotes and contrast the various offers then they can mark figures suitable for their budget. Moreover, such loans are tax saving and saves a loan amount from being taxed.
Easiest way of procuring the loan is using the e-application method. This electronic widget cuts down the burden of paper-work and enables the users to access the amount within less time spend.
So, woman business loans can now easily shape their dreams and establish themselves as symbols of success.
Woman Business Loans - Get Funds For Business Development
Recently a survey proved that the percentage of women business entrepreneurs have risen to an outstanding level. Several women are opting for the field of business management as their occupation. And this all has become possible due to their magnificent efforts and proactive attitude towards the work. However, besides these attributes, another important thing that equally supported their remarkable performance is the availability of encouraging financial solutions. Woman business loans is one such reliable financial aid that aims to offer substantial monetary assistance to women, so that they can plan their business strategies in a more meticulous manner without getting worried about the arrangement of funds.
Owing to the need and ability of the borrowers, woman business loans are provided under both the categories of secured and unsecured loans. Hence, those women, who have the privilege of owning a property and are ready to offer it as security against the loan demand can procure the facility of secured woman business loans, whereas, borrowers who do not have the provision of collateral can feel secure with the availability of unsecured form of this loan. Moreover, no barriers have been placed for the low credit scorers and even they are allowed to apply for this loan on similar terms and conditions as the good credit holders. Hence, it would not be not incorrect to state the fact that every kind of borrower, can utilize the assistance of this powerful financial resource.
However, to gain the benefits of woman business loans, woman entrepreneurs are expected to fulfill a certain criteria. First of all, they are supposed to make a concrete, succinct business profile that mainly carries all the required information about their business plans, strategies and profit aspects. This profile should be informative enough to convince the lenders. In addition to this, other mandatory pre requisites of being an adult and having a substantial source of income will also be taken into consideration by the lender to judge the repayment ability of the borrower. Therefore, if you are also wondering for a good monetary assistance to bring necessary amendments in your business organization, then moving towards the option of woman business loans can stand as a fruitful idea.
Interested applicants can easily access woman business loans through banks, finance companies and money lending agencies. Try to contact finance consultancies to gather contact details about these reliable lenders. Once you shortlist the category of your preferred lenders, you can place your demand of free quotes by filling up the requisition form. These quotations, in turn will help you in selecting the most suitable loan deal from an appropriate lender. After this accomplishment, the remaining task of drafting an application is nothing more than a job of few clicks. You simply have to log on to the website of your chosen lender, where the online application form would be available. Fill up this form with your correct personal and employment details and get the loan amount deposited into your bank account in the shortest possible duration.
Owing to the need and ability of the borrowers, woman business loans are provided under both the categories of secured and unsecured loans. Hence, those women, who have the privilege of owning a property and are ready to offer it as security against the loan demand can procure the facility of secured woman business loans, whereas, borrowers who do not have the provision of collateral can feel secure with the availability of unsecured form of this loan. Moreover, no barriers have been placed for the low credit scorers and even they are allowed to apply for this loan on similar terms and conditions as the good credit holders. Hence, it would not be not incorrect to state the fact that every kind of borrower, can utilize the assistance of this powerful financial resource.
However, to gain the benefits of woman business loans, woman entrepreneurs are expected to fulfill a certain criteria. First of all, they are supposed to make a concrete, succinct business profile that mainly carries all the required information about their business plans, strategies and profit aspects. This profile should be informative enough to convince the lenders. In addition to this, other mandatory pre requisites of being an adult and having a substantial source of income will also be taken into consideration by the lender to judge the repayment ability of the borrower. Therefore, if you are also wondering for a good monetary assistance to bring necessary amendments in your business organization, then moving towards the option of woman business loans can stand as a fruitful idea.
Interested applicants can easily access woman business loans through banks, finance companies and money lending agencies. Try to contact finance consultancies to gather contact details about these reliable lenders. Once you shortlist the category of your preferred lenders, you can place your demand of free quotes by filling up the requisition form. These quotations, in turn will help you in selecting the most suitable loan deal from an appropriate lender. After this accomplishment, the remaining task of drafting an application is nothing more than a job of few clicks. You simply have to log on to the website of your chosen lender, where the online application form would be available. Fill up this form with your correct personal and employment details and get the loan amount deposited into your bank account in the shortest possible duration.
The Instincts of a Woman Business Owner - Four Tips to Tap Into YourSecret "Intuition" Weapon
For a woman business owner, much of running a business can be based on intuition. Without using some of these innate skills, a woman business owner can find her job much more challenging. Many of these essential abilities, the so-called women's intuition, can be an advantage for female leaders.
There's a difference between a woman business owner using her intuition and taking unnecessary risks. When evaluating a business, it is important not to think of risk taking or intuition as a single event. After all, taking chances is a process that should never end for a woman business owner who's interested in growth and success. A good way of thinking about this strategy is to compare yourself to an athlete. What is necessary in order for you to compete and reduce the risk of failing by using your intuition?
First, practice putting your intuition to good use. A woman business owner needs to practice in order to hone her skills. Doing so repeatedly will not only enable learning but build confidence, as improvements come with each attempt. The 26.2 mile running marathon as well as the business "success" marathon both require taking risks, pushing yourself and practicing until you have the stamina and confidence to finish "the race."
Secondly, intuition in a vacuum will not work. A woman business owner needs to get input from others. However, this can be difficult for she is often spending most of her time working on where she wants the business to go and not enough time bringing people along with her. Remembering to ensure that everyone is with you in the present will help avoid some of the possible problems in the future. Get the right input in order to make the right decisions about your intuitions.
Thirdly, you need to view your intuition in the proper perspective. When you have a moment, step back and look at the whole picture. Ask yourself as a woman business owner, what you want your business to look like. What is going to help you get there? What's keeping you from getting to the next level? What does your intuition tell you? Does it seem right? Feel right in your gut? Once you have figured out, go after it.
Fourthly while having a rough idea about plans for the future, looking for new ideas needs to be a constant, never-ending process and a vital part of your business. Business is not static. A woman business owner needs to continually look ahead. What does your intuition tell you about the next 2-3 years? What new ideas or offerings should you be considering. Using your intuition to balance new ideas in the context of your business strategy will lead to the most positive results.
Many women naturally have some of these instincts that put to use can help their businesses. However, they can be cultivated just like any other skills. You have used your intuition to get to where you are so you have proof that it works for you. Now you just need to practice using it, get feedback on how it might impact your business, put it in the proper perspective and leverage it to continually bring in and evaluate new ideas.
There's a difference between a woman business owner using her intuition and taking unnecessary risks. When evaluating a business, it is important not to think of risk taking or intuition as a single event. After all, taking chances is a process that should never end for a woman business owner who's interested in growth and success. A good way of thinking about this strategy is to compare yourself to an athlete. What is necessary in order for you to compete and reduce the risk of failing by using your intuition?
First, practice putting your intuition to good use. A woman business owner needs to practice in order to hone her skills. Doing so repeatedly will not only enable learning but build confidence, as improvements come with each attempt. The 26.2 mile running marathon as well as the business "success" marathon both require taking risks, pushing yourself and practicing until you have the stamina and confidence to finish "the race."
Secondly, intuition in a vacuum will not work. A woman business owner needs to get input from others. However, this can be difficult for she is often spending most of her time working on where she wants the business to go and not enough time bringing people along with her. Remembering to ensure that everyone is with you in the present will help avoid some of the possible problems in the future. Get the right input in order to make the right decisions about your intuitions.
Thirdly, you need to view your intuition in the proper perspective. When you have a moment, step back and look at the whole picture. Ask yourself as a woman business owner, what you want your business to look like. What is going to help you get there? What's keeping you from getting to the next level? What does your intuition tell you? Does it seem right? Feel right in your gut? Once you have figured out, go after it.
Fourthly while having a rough idea about plans for the future, looking for new ideas needs to be a constant, never-ending process and a vital part of your business. Business is not static. A woman business owner needs to continually look ahead. What does your intuition tell you about the next 2-3 years? What new ideas or offerings should you be considering. Using your intuition to balance new ideas in the context of your business strategy will lead to the most positive results.
Many women naturally have some of these instincts that put to use can help their businesses. However, they can be cultivated just like any other skills. You have used your intuition to get to where you are so you have proof that it works for you. Now you just need to practice using it, get feedback on how it might impact your business, put it in the proper perspective and leverage it to continually bring in and evaluate new ideas.
Juggling Motherhood and a Career
Recently, my two year old daughter Alex was sick. I did what I'm sure most mothers want to do when their little one is sick. I held her close all day, watched movies with her, let her nap on me, and helped wipe her nose whenever she requested (which seemed like every 10 seconds there for quite a while). When my child is sick, I want her to always feel safe and comforted and know that I am there for her. That's what I'm for after all - I am her mother. I wouldn't have it any other way.
So in the middle of all of this, I began to ponder what moms do when they have no choice but to go to work even when their child is sick. I realize that not all moms have the guilt free, stress free option of staying at home when their child is sick like I do. Some women instead have end up sending their child to school or day care even when sick or to spend the day with a relative so that they can go to work and keep their job or just make as much money as possible to keep food on the table. Other women stay home with their kids, but worry about how the lost time at work will affect their standing. Women should be able to do it all and moms should not have to choose.
You see, all of Alex's life I have been a stay at home mom who works out of the house. Long before Alex was born, I began shifting gears so that I could run my own business from home while being a mom. It was a choice I made, because it was vastly important to me. I willed it to work out and it did. While I enjoy what I do, what I love most about it is the freedom that it has given me. I get to be a full time mom, entrepreneur, career woman, and business woman all wrapped into one. My many jobs aren't easy, but I love my life!
I dread my daughter getting sick again, but I know it's inevitable. Two year olds seem to constantly be catching something. I find solace in knowing that I will be the one to comfort her so she doesn't feel quite so sad, wipe her runny nose, watch Curious George with her, and feed her toast until she's back on her feet again running full speed through the house, playing with Benny the dog, and banging out her favorite Sesame Street songs on her little red toy piano. Because I am her mom.
So in the middle of all of this, I began to ponder what moms do when they have no choice but to go to work even when their child is sick. I realize that not all moms have the guilt free, stress free option of staying at home when their child is sick like I do. Some women instead have end up sending their child to school or day care even when sick or to spend the day with a relative so that they can go to work and keep their job or just make as much money as possible to keep food on the table. Other women stay home with their kids, but worry about how the lost time at work will affect their standing. Women should be able to do it all and moms should not have to choose.
You see, all of Alex's life I have been a stay at home mom who works out of the house. Long before Alex was born, I began shifting gears so that I could run my own business from home while being a mom. It was a choice I made, because it was vastly important to me. I willed it to work out and it did. While I enjoy what I do, what I love most about it is the freedom that it has given me. I get to be a full time mom, entrepreneur, career woman, and business woman all wrapped into one. My many jobs aren't easy, but I love my life!
I dread my daughter getting sick again, but I know it's inevitable. Two year olds seem to constantly be catching something. I find solace in knowing that I will be the one to comfort her so she doesn't feel quite so sad, wipe her runny nose, watch Curious George with her, and feed her toast until she's back on her feet again running full speed through the house, playing with Benny the dog, and banging out her favorite Sesame Street songs on her little red toy piano. Because I am her mom.
Benefits Of Business Networking Groups Exclusively For Women
Just as it is for men in the business world, for women, life is just as hard and some would say somewhat harder. I've launched a new business venture and know exactly how hard the small business enterprise can be to get off the ground.
I'm a passionate believer in business networking because my business has grown as a result, in fact I've seen so much power in word of mouth marketing that I know run my own business networking clubs in the area where I live.
Exclusive women only business networking groups are becoming more and more common but does it really make sense? After all the basis of business networking is that you want to convey your business services to fellow networking partners so that they can refer clients to you, so why would you want to cut your audience in half by restricting it just to women?
Many women feel more comfortable in an all woman environment and actually get to trust other networking partners much quicker. There's evidence to suggest that women network better than men because women focus more on the relationship building whereas men will focus on the end result of getting the referral. Having both networking partners in line is surely bound to deliver a faster and more powerful result.
Whether it's politically correct or not to say so, it's clear that in some business circles, women are still perceived to be less than equal. I think that there are countless examples of great women in business to demonstrate that this perception is a completely outdated position and gradually it is dying but not before time. So again when it comes to feeling comfortable when networking, clubs exclusive to women meet the need.
Many women running small businesses also have to juggle family life and therefore feel an affinity with other women in the same situation. It may help build rapport or it may simply just help understand the challenges but whatever the reason it helps get to that point in the relationship where you know, like and trust the other person and so are ready to start giving and receiving referrals.
Many traditional networking groups have been established over decades and probably don't fit in with family life in terms of the meeting times. Women's networking clubs understand this point and ensure that the meeting times are at a time of day that isn't going to conflict with the school run. This may be the difference between being able network or not.
So it's not really about cutting your audience in half, there's clear reasons why all women networking clubs work well but by nature of the fact that half the business population is excluded, womens business networking clubs should be regarded as complementary to the networking concept as a whole and not a substitute.
I'm a passionate believer in business networking because my business has grown as a result, in fact I've seen so much power in word of mouth marketing that I know run my own business networking clubs in the area where I live.
Exclusive women only business networking groups are becoming more and more common but does it really make sense? After all the basis of business networking is that you want to convey your business services to fellow networking partners so that they can refer clients to you, so why would you want to cut your audience in half by restricting it just to women?
Many women feel more comfortable in an all woman environment and actually get to trust other networking partners much quicker. There's evidence to suggest that women network better than men because women focus more on the relationship building whereas men will focus on the end result of getting the referral. Having both networking partners in line is surely bound to deliver a faster and more powerful result.
Whether it's politically correct or not to say so, it's clear that in some business circles, women are still perceived to be less than equal. I think that there are countless examples of great women in business to demonstrate that this perception is a completely outdated position and gradually it is dying but not before time. So again when it comes to feeling comfortable when networking, clubs exclusive to women meet the need.
Many women running small businesses also have to juggle family life and therefore feel an affinity with other women in the same situation. It may help build rapport or it may simply just help understand the challenges but whatever the reason it helps get to that point in the relationship where you know, like and trust the other person and so are ready to start giving and receiving referrals.
Many traditional networking groups have been established over decades and probably don't fit in with family life in terms of the meeting times. Women's networking clubs understand this point and ensure that the meeting times are at a time of day that isn't going to conflict with the school run. This may be the difference between being able network or not.
So it's not really about cutting your audience in half, there's clear reasons why all women networking clubs work well but by nature of the fact that half the business population is excluded, womens business networking clubs should be regarded as complementary to the networking concept as a whole and not a substitute.
Are You Headed for the Corner Office?
Who gets the corner office? The woman who maneuvers and manipulates? The woman who is constantly pleasing?
Whether you are a business woman, entrepreneur or corporate leader in training - your goal of the corner office is commendable.
The woman who gets the corner office has these top 5 traits. These empowering traits, preferably habits, will sharpen your focus while on the path to the corner office. Ignore any suggestions of 'hoping' to reach the corner office or being satisfied with a view onto the back alley.
Women are asserting their earned right to be seated at the table and occupy the corner office. Genuinely deserving the corner office doesn't come because of your good looks or from who you know. Not for the worthy woman.
Here are the top 5 traits of what will get you into the corner office:
1. Stop your whining. There's no excuse for doing a half-ass job. If you don't have the necessary skill set, get trained. Read. Learn. Obsess. Whatever you do, don't whine about what you can't do, don't want to do or resources not available. Make it happen.
The woman who gets noticed and garners positive impressions is the one who gets the job done. I guarantee if you refuse, you won't be headed to the corner office any time soon.
2. Exercise your gut. Listen to your intuition. Trust it. Take the risk and follow it. Step up and step out into the world of expressing what you know. Shyness and helplessness are not your friends.
Stop looking for or expecting a 'knight in shining armor.' You are capable of showing your creativity, your spunk and your genius without the crutch of a man. Your ideas and contributions need to be strong to stand on their own two feet.
3. Be willing to walk away. Before you walk away, let them know what they will be missing. Believe in your value and worth. Better yet package it to be irresistible. Decision makers and promoters have a hard time turning away quality and excellence.
Always have a Plan B in your pocket. Alternative plans are not for the weak - they are for the prepared. This will let you freely make decisions on what is best for you, from the working environment to your life-long goals.
4. Speak the unspeakable. Yes, the Emperor has no clothes. Get fed up with indulging at any cost, or the sucking up scenario. The only thing you get is twisted, puffy lips and a sore self-esteem. Not to mention, promotions that may not last long. Not worth it.
When you see B.S. call it B.S. You will gain more respect and credibility than the ninny who goes along to get along. However, remain tactful and strategic with your input and observations. Win the war by purposefully picking your battles.
5. Be kind to everyone on the way up. If you have mistreated people, been a phony, lied, cheated or slept your way to the corner office, then you don't deserve it. You have, in short, become the antithesis to what truly makes a woman remarkable and admired.
Stop and think before you enter into ANY relationship or action that qualifies you as the most undeserving woman in the corner office. Honey goes a lot further than vinegar. Eat it regularly.
The corner office is the reward for paying your dues, being honest and self-asserting, rising above fear and compromise. The woman in the corner office is a role model for other women who want to make their mark on the world of work. This is not a road taken lightly or an endeavor to enter into haphazardly. Use your talent, skills and wits to not only reach the corner office but enjoy the journey to it.
Whether you are a business woman, entrepreneur or corporate leader in training - your goal of the corner office is commendable.
The woman who gets the corner office has these top 5 traits. These empowering traits, preferably habits, will sharpen your focus while on the path to the corner office. Ignore any suggestions of 'hoping' to reach the corner office or being satisfied with a view onto the back alley.
Women are asserting their earned right to be seated at the table and occupy the corner office. Genuinely deserving the corner office doesn't come because of your good looks or from who you know. Not for the worthy woman.
Here are the top 5 traits of what will get you into the corner office:
1. Stop your whining. There's no excuse for doing a half-ass job. If you don't have the necessary skill set, get trained. Read. Learn. Obsess. Whatever you do, don't whine about what you can't do, don't want to do or resources not available. Make it happen.
The woman who gets noticed and garners positive impressions is the one who gets the job done. I guarantee if you refuse, you won't be headed to the corner office any time soon.
2. Exercise your gut. Listen to your intuition. Trust it. Take the risk and follow it. Step up and step out into the world of expressing what you know. Shyness and helplessness are not your friends.
Stop looking for or expecting a 'knight in shining armor.' You are capable of showing your creativity, your spunk and your genius without the crutch of a man. Your ideas and contributions need to be strong to stand on their own two feet.
3. Be willing to walk away. Before you walk away, let them know what they will be missing. Believe in your value and worth. Better yet package it to be irresistible. Decision makers and promoters have a hard time turning away quality and excellence.
Always have a Plan B in your pocket. Alternative plans are not for the weak - they are for the prepared. This will let you freely make decisions on what is best for you, from the working environment to your life-long goals.
4. Speak the unspeakable. Yes, the Emperor has no clothes. Get fed up with indulging at any cost, or the sucking up scenario. The only thing you get is twisted, puffy lips and a sore self-esteem. Not to mention, promotions that may not last long. Not worth it.
When you see B.S. call it B.S. You will gain more respect and credibility than the ninny who goes along to get along. However, remain tactful and strategic with your input and observations. Win the war by purposefully picking your battles.
5. Be kind to everyone on the way up. If you have mistreated people, been a phony, lied, cheated or slept your way to the corner office, then you don't deserve it. You have, in short, become the antithesis to what truly makes a woman remarkable and admired.
Stop and think before you enter into ANY relationship or action that qualifies you as the most undeserving woman in the corner office. Honey goes a lot further than vinegar. Eat it regularly.
The corner office is the reward for paying your dues, being honest and self-asserting, rising above fear and compromise. The woman in the corner office is a role model for other women who want to make their mark on the world of work. This is not a road taken lightly or an endeavor to enter into haphazardly. Use your talent, skills and wits to not only reach the corner office but enjoy the journey to it.
Credit Worries No Hurdles In Bad Credit Women Business Loans
Women are now integral part of the business world. Therefore a loan has become a must for any business women if she wishes to advance her business interests. But in the process of doing business, women are bound to come under financial constraints and payment defaults may happen as a regular feature. So no one should ignore financial help to business women if she has a bad credit, as a loan only can improve her financial health and in turn can enable her in paying debts. Bad credit women business loans are crafted especially for business women having bad credit. A business woman can make improvements in her credit score as she pays off the loan installments of bad credit women business loans. With the help of the loan amount she can buy a business or pay off various bills related to raw material or equipment purchase or she can clear debts.
Bad credit happens to business women when she regularly defaults on payments. So her credit score on FICO range of 300 to 850 falls below 600 indicating that she may be a risk for the lender in offering a loan. But bad credit of a business woman can be countered effectively. The best way to do so is that the business woman takes a secured bad credit women business loans. for providing the secured loan amount the lender will take any of the business woman's property like home as collateral. This way she can borrow greater amount at lower interest rate. another advantage is that the business woman going through a bad phase can easily pay back the loan as secured bad credit women business loans are provide for a larger repayment duration of 5 to 30 years. This means her monthly monetary outgo towards installments gets reduce and she saves money for other business purposes.
If smaller amount is what a business woman needs than unsecured bad credit women business loans is the right option. For her there are no risks as none of her property is involved in the loan as collateral. But lender would like to have a good look into the repaying capacity through income and past records of bank statements. The unsecured loan however comes at slightly higher interest rate. The loan amount is kept smaller and repaying duration also is shorter.
But before availing the loan the business women should know that there are special concessions being given by lenders for them. Business women should look around for these concessions so that their businesses can benefit more from them.
Also ensure that you have made an extensive comparison of different bad credit women business loans on offer from as many lenders. The lenders can be located on internet. See which lender has suitable offer for your type of business. Apply online to the lender for fast processing and approval of the loan amount.
Surely business women get maximum benefits on availing bad credit women business loans. The installments of the loan should regularly be cleared for escaping debts. Remember that with each clearing of the installments your credit score improves and that makes the loan availing a lot easier in future.
Bad credit happens to business women when she regularly defaults on payments. So her credit score on FICO range of 300 to 850 falls below 600 indicating that she may be a risk for the lender in offering a loan. But bad credit of a business woman can be countered effectively. The best way to do so is that the business woman takes a secured bad credit women business loans. for providing the secured loan amount the lender will take any of the business woman's property like home as collateral. This way she can borrow greater amount at lower interest rate. another advantage is that the business woman going through a bad phase can easily pay back the loan as secured bad credit women business loans are provide for a larger repayment duration of 5 to 30 years. This means her monthly monetary outgo towards installments gets reduce and she saves money for other business purposes.
If smaller amount is what a business woman needs than unsecured bad credit women business loans is the right option. For her there are no risks as none of her property is involved in the loan as collateral. But lender would like to have a good look into the repaying capacity through income and past records of bank statements. The unsecured loan however comes at slightly higher interest rate. The loan amount is kept smaller and repaying duration also is shorter.
But before availing the loan the business women should know that there are special concessions being given by lenders for them. Business women should look around for these concessions so that their businesses can benefit more from them.
Also ensure that you have made an extensive comparison of different bad credit women business loans on offer from as many lenders. The lenders can be located on internet. See which lender has suitable offer for your type of business. Apply online to the lender for fast processing and approval of the loan amount.
Surely business women get maximum benefits on availing bad credit women business loans. The installments of the loan should regularly be cleared for escaping debts. Remember that with each clearing of the installments your credit score improves and that makes the loan availing a lot easier in future.
Business Loans For Woman - For Better Start Up
Let's have look upon the segregation of the term woman. W- Wise o - organised m - managed a - alacrity n - nimble. With the gravity of time everything, living or non-living, takes its shape according to the provided circumstances. No one can ever remain detached to it. Today, compassionate women have taken to work in proportionate to their managerial skills. However, to create every possible opportunity for women-entrepreneurs, fund plays a pivotal role. With the help of business loans for woman, the financial furor gets its way.
Under the provisions of business loans for woman, entrepreneurs try to invest the sanctioned amount as per their infrastructural development. Whether you are expanding the existing business, or in for establishment of a new business, purchasing equipments or machineries for your dream business and paying business due, are always main areas of attraction.
For all that, business loans for woman have been categorised into two forms i.e., secured and unsecured forms. On applying for the former i.e., secured loans, arrangement of collateral keeps an important part of it, while the latter i.e., unsecured forms these business loans are given without any sort of pledging placing. Entrepreneurs get the required sum of money as they wish to, in the way they applying these loans for.
Across the country, lenders have come up with business loans for woman. Interestingly, these loans for woman are offered on competitive rates. To this effect, women-entrepreneurs are required to do a bit research online or offline. If you feel somewhat uncomfortable asking question from lender, then online method of applying is a perfect option for them. Sitting in your home you can access the lender, can go through the terms and conditions of these business loans. And, obviously apply for business loans for women to the lending authority via the online processing. The processing is simple; borrowers get the required sum without late.
Under the provisions of business loans for woman, entrepreneurs try to invest the sanctioned amount as per their infrastructural development. Whether you are expanding the existing business, or in for establishment of a new business, purchasing equipments or machineries for your dream business and paying business due, are always main areas of attraction.
For all that, business loans for woman have been categorised into two forms i.e., secured and unsecured forms. On applying for the former i.e., secured loans, arrangement of collateral keeps an important part of it, while the latter i.e., unsecured forms these business loans are given without any sort of pledging placing. Entrepreneurs get the required sum of money as they wish to, in the way they applying these loans for.
Across the country, lenders have come up with business loans for woman. Interestingly, these loans for woman are offered on competitive rates. To this effect, women-entrepreneurs are required to do a bit research online or offline. If you feel somewhat uncomfortable asking question from lender, then online method of applying is a perfect option for them. Sitting in your home you can access the lender, can go through the terms and conditions of these business loans. And, obviously apply for business loans for women to the lending authority via the online processing. The processing is simple; borrowers get the required sum without late.
Business Loan Start Up Woman - Start New Business Smoothly
With larger number of woman entering in various types of businesses, business loan start up for woman has only become more crucial for starting and running a business smoothly. Through the loan amount a business woman can meet any expense like paying salary, buying raw material, equipment, office furniture, clearing debts and so on.
A business woman has the option of taking business loans start up in secured or unsecured options. Secured option is best suited for greater loan amount at lower interest rate and for repaying the loan in larger duration of say 25-30 years. She is required to place any of her property like home as security of the loan. Unsecured business loan start up is provided without taking any security from her. So it is completely risk free loan for the business woman. However she will be approved only smaller amount for shorter repaying duration. Also the lender will charge higher interest rate.
Make sure that you have a convincing business plan in place for showing it to the lender. The plan should clearly tell as to where and how you are going to invest the loan. Also make sure that you have enough money in your bank account to show that you have adequate repaying capacity. Ensure that you do not take a loan that is well within your earnings. Tell the lender that your business has good prospects of great earnings soon. Tell the lenders the reason as to why your business will prosper in near term.
Bad credit borrowers are also approved business loan start up for woman is she is in a good position of returning the loan in timely manner. So if you have late payments, arrears, payment defaults or county court judgments against your name, the loan is still available for you. Compare different lenders for a suitable deal of comparatively lower interest rate. you can source the loan form banks, financial companies or from online lenders.
A business woman has the option of taking business loans start up in secured or unsecured options. Secured option is best suited for greater loan amount at lower interest rate and for repaying the loan in larger duration of say 25-30 years. She is required to place any of her property like home as security of the loan. Unsecured business loan start up is provided without taking any security from her. So it is completely risk free loan for the business woman. However she will be approved only smaller amount for shorter repaying duration. Also the lender will charge higher interest rate.
Make sure that you have a convincing business plan in place for showing it to the lender. The plan should clearly tell as to where and how you are going to invest the loan. Also make sure that you have enough money in your bank account to show that you have adequate repaying capacity. Ensure that you do not take a loan that is well within your earnings. Tell the lender that your business has good prospects of great earnings soon. Tell the lenders the reason as to why your business will prosper in near term.
Bad credit borrowers are also approved business loan start up for woman is she is in a good position of returning the loan in timely manner. So if you have late payments, arrears, payment defaults or county court judgments against your name, the loan is still available for you. Compare different lenders for a suitable deal of comparatively lower interest rate. you can source the loan form banks, financial companies or from online lenders.
Small Business Marketing - Three Tips To Infuse More Style Into Your Marketing Strategies
"The Bold and the Beautiful" isn't just the name of a daytime television show. It also describes how you must put your personality to work if you want to grow your business into six and seven figures.
Take a look at the superstar women entrepreneurs in your industry and you'll see what I mean. They aren't wall flowers when it comes to flaunting their quirky personalities' strengths in their marketing strategies.
In fact, these women entrepreneurs have cleverly discovered that by shining a spotlight on their innate characteristics they put their business in the spotlight...and reap the rewards.
So how does the woman business owner know which parts of her complex personality will help create winning impact marketing? What if she chooses the wrong parts and ends up looking foolish?
That's where the Branding with Archetypes(TM) system comes in. Once you have discovered your business archetype (which a Branding with Archetypes ten-minute assessment helps you easily do) you start to see how traits you've possessed all along are now an important part of your marketing strategies.
Let's look at woman business owner, Helen, for example. Before Branding with Archetypes, Helen knew she had a quirky sense of humor and a cheerfully contrary way of looking at things. But she thought those traits were faults that needed to be hidden away in favor of being "business like."
Sure, right...uh huh...
Problem was that by hiding away her authentic nature, Helen was also hiding her gifts, talents and the opportunity to build a money-and-soul-style business. In short, she was hiding away a vital part of her soul.
Her business was practically nonexistent. (No wonder, since if SHE wasn't showing up in her business, how could she expect her clients to?!)
Helen wasn't surprised to discover that her archetype was the Wise Jester. After learning this she realized she had a talent for writing marketing copy that was infused with humor and that created a sense of camaraderie with her reader.
Not long after these discoveries she started her web-based copy writing business, dubbing it Cracker Jack Websites. (Now, doesn't that name say "Get it done and make it fun!" to you?!)
Helen specializes in soft-topic copy writing preferred by coaches, holistic practitioners and other from-the-heart business owners. Her business is booming and she's having fun. Her clients are relieved to find someone who can write from the heart without being hard sell.
Even if you don't know which archetype you are in your business, you can start to infuse more personality and style into your marketing strategies. Here are three simple tips to get started now:
#1. What part of your personality do you most often try to hide?
Quirky sense of humor? Maybe your love of risky sports like hang-gliding over mountain peaks? Or you're known for being bold and ahead of the pack. Or perhaps you secretly channel spirit guides but fear your corporate clients will find out.
Whatever personality trait you possess that got you in trouble when you were a kid in school is probably precisely the one that needs to show up as a key branding component in your impact marketing.
#2. Brainstorm a list of words and phrases that represent that personality trait.
Remember, "tame is lame" so go for words and phrases that may feel outlandish or outrageous.
#3. Cut loose and let your personality show in your next email, newsletter, web page sales letter or flyer.
Now, now, don't gulp. This is actually pretty easy once you give yourself permission to cut loose a little. A little goes a long way so you won't have to do too much to have your personality really stand out.
The basics of marketing a small business are pretty simple to figure out but it takes a bold and beautiful soul to reach deep within and let the innermost being speak through in her marketing!
Start Up Business Loan for Woman - Pour Finance into Business
Business is a field where now women also aspire to be in and they are there in larger numbers; it is no more a male dominated bastion. The presence of women in variety of businesses has compelled lenders to take women entrepreneurs as potential loan customers. For women starting fresh in a business, a start up business loan for woman therefore has become a lot easier to get these days.
With more and more lenders willing to offer a business loan to women, it does not require many conditions to be met for availing a start up business loan for woman. All a woman need to do is take a project plan of the business including its potential for earning money soon and bank statements of past months to show the lender that you have pay off the loan installments easily. As it's a new business, lender is not sure of its earning potential. So the lender will prefer collateral consisting of any property of the business woman. Collateral is of great help in borrowing greater amount depending on value of the property. The interest rate on secured start up business loan for woman is lower which lowers the monthly payments towards loan installments also. Obviously this way the woman can have more money at hand for other business expenses.
However if a women is not sure of prospects of business and does not want to risk property for a loan, then unsecured start up business loan for woman is the suitable option. Being unsecured with no collateral required, unsecured start up business loan for woman come at higher interest rate and smaller amount is offered for shorter repayment duration of few years. In case of bad credit repayment capacity and financial standing is considered sufficient for providing an amount under start up business loan for woman.
Numerous lenders should preferably be compared before a woman settles for start up business loan for woman deal. If the loan installments are cleared regularly, the credit score will go higher, making a loan availing lot easier in future for expanding business.
With more and more lenders willing to offer a business loan to women, it does not require many conditions to be met for availing a start up business loan for woman. All a woman need to do is take a project plan of the business including its potential for earning money soon and bank statements of past months to show the lender that you have pay off the loan installments easily. As it's a new business, lender is not sure of its earning potential. So the lender will prefer collateral consisting of any property of the business woman. Collateral is of great help in borrowing greater amount depending on value of the property. The interest rate on secured start up business loan for woman is lower which lowers the monthly payments towards loan installments also. Obviously this way the woman can have more money at hand for other business expenses.
However if a women is not sure of prospects of business and does not want to risk property for a loan, then unsecured start up business loan for woman is the suitable option. Being unsecured with no collateral required, unsecured start up business loan for woman come at higher interest rate and smaller amount is offered for shorter repayment duration of few years. In case of bad credit repayment capacity and financial standing is considered sufficient for providing an amount under start up business loan for woman.
Numerous lenders should preferably be compared before a woman settles for start up business loan for woman deal. If the loan installments are cleared regularly, the credit score will go higher, making a loan availing lot easier in future for expanding business.
Women in Business Often Say - "But I'm Not a Sales Person"
In my work with women entrepreneurs, I often hear "But I'm not a sales person." This conversation generally comes up as we discuss how, as a successful woman business owner, it is important to focus on moneymaking activities. Trust me, selling your service or product is a moneymaking activity!
Here's the bottom line: We're all sales people. Everyday we're selling something to someone - an idea, a point of view, a product, a service, an opportunity, etc. If you, as a business owner, do not sell what your company is offering, you'll be out of business. A successful business is a moneymaking entity and if you're not making money, you probably won't be in business too long.
Is it time to stop saying, "I'm not a sales person" and begin making more money? Focus on the benefits of what your service or product can do for your customer - how your service or product can make their life easier, better or happier. The key is to totally believe in yourself and what you are offering - belief can overcome many obstacles.
If you're hesitant to "sell" what your business is offering, what is the hesitation? What are your values and beliefs about "sales?"
1. What is your definition of a sales person?
2. What positive things can you write about sales?
3. What negative things can you write about sales?
Take a minute and study your answers.
* Do you see yourself taking on the negative characteristics of "sales" when you present your service or product to others?
* How can you incorporate more of the positive characteristics of "sales" into how you are currently offering your service or product to others?
* How many ways can you mentally and emotionally change any negative perceptions of "sales people" into more positive ones?
With a strong belief in yourself, your service or product and a powerful commitment to the success of your business, you will be more willing to "share" with others.
Remember, it's not about you but about your customers. When you come from a place of giving benefit and value, you will eagerly begin sharing your services and products. Focus on the benefits of what you are offering and you'll want to tell everyone about your business and fabulous products!
I'm Sharon Michaels and my business is dedicated to empowering and coaching women in business. I show women entrepreneurs how to build a financially successful business by empowering themselves and enhancing their business-building skills.
Here's the bottom line: We're all sales people. Everyday we're selling something to someone - an idea, a point of view, a product, a service, an opportunity, etc. If you, as a business owner, do not sell what your company is offering, you'll be out of business. A successful business is a moneymaking entity and if you're not making money, you probably won't be in business too long.
Is it time to stop saying, "I'm not a sales person" and begin making more money? Focus on the benefits of what your service or product can do for your customer - how your service or product can make their life easier, better or happier. The key is to totally believe in yourself and what you are offering - belief can overcome many obstacles.
If you're hesitant to "sell" what your business is offering, what is the hesitation? What are your values and beliefs about "sales?"
1. What is your definition of a sales person?
2. What positive things can you write about sales?
3. What negative things can you write about sales?
Take a minute and study your answers.
* Do you see yourself taking on the negative characteristics of "sales" when you present your service or product to others?
* How can you incorporate more of the positive characteristics of "sales" into how you are currently offering your service or product to others?
* How many ways can you mentally and emotionally change any negative perceptions of "sales people" into more positive ones?
With a strong belief in yourself, your service or product and a powerful commitment to the success of your business, you will be more willing to "share" with others.
Remember, it's not about you but about your customers. When you come from a place of giving benefit and value, you will eagerly begin sharing your services and products. Focus on the benefits of what you are offering and you'll want to tell everyone about your business and fabulous products!
I'm Sharon Michaels and my business is dedicated to empowering and coaching women in business. I show women entrepreneurs how to build a financially successful business by empowering themselves and enhancing their business-building skills.
Hiring Help: Two Entrepreneurs Find the Right Assistant
When a woman business owner makes the decision to hire help, hiring an assistant is an excellent first step in building a team. Even if an entrepreneur doesn't feel ready to create a team immediately, the right assistant eventually can serve as the link between the business owner and the team in the future. Selecting an assistant who meets an entrepreneur's specific needs (both immediate and future needs) is absolutely essential in forming a relationship that will set the foundation for a strong team later one.
A recent study reveals there are five distinct types of women in business. Based on professional market research of more than 3,500 women in business, this study shows that each type of business owner has a unique approach to running a business and therefore each one has a unique combination of needs. This article outlines two of the five types and provides tips for each one to consider when hiring an assistant.
Jane Dough is an entrepreneur who enjoys running her business and generally, she makes a nice living. She is comfortable and determined in buying and selling, which may be why she's five times more likely than the average female business owner to hit the million dollar mark. Jane Dough is clear in her priorities and may be intentionally and actively growing an asset-based or legacy business. It is estimated that 18% of women entrepreneurs fall in the category of Jane Dough.
Because Jane Dough often delegates almost too much and then moves quickly on to her next strategizing session, she needs an assistant who will ask questions when necessary and who will be able to command Jane Dough's attention and then communicate quickly and efficiently once she has it. Jane Dough business owners tend to be so focused on growth and strategy that they don't communicate their vision. Therefore, team members often feel disconnected. An assistant can act as the liaison between Jane Dough and the rest of the team.
Professional skills and experience Jane Dough should look for: managerial skills, effective communication skills, multi-tasking, organization.
Personality traits Jane Dough should look for: confidence, an outgoing nature, a can-do attitude, a thick skin, autonomy, flexibility.
Go Jane Go is passionate about her work and provides excellent service, so she has plenty of clients - so much so, she's struggling to keep up with demand. She may be a classic overachiever, taking on volunteer opportunities as well, because she's eager to make an impact on the world and she often struggles to say no. Because she wants to say yes to so many people, she may even be in denial about how many hours she actually works during the course of a week. As a result, she may be running herself ragged and feeling guilty about neglecting herself and others who are important to her.
Go Jane Go business owners often find delegating difficult because they worry that no one else will live up to their own high standards. Therefore, they must hire helpers who are detail-oriented and who strive for perfection like she does, and who will find creative ways to encourage Go Jane Go to delegate to him or her. Also, Go Jane Go values her relationships with customers so much that she sometimes goes above and beyond what is reasonable, stretching her personal and business resources. Therefore, while an assistant Go Jane Go hires must be customer-friendly, he or she also must be able to provide Go Jane Go with a reality check when a client's demands exceed practicality. Finally, an assistant to Go Jane Go must have excellent communication and organization skills so he or she can effectively handle running a team while providing Go Jane Go with the information she needs to feel confident that her team is performing at the high caliber she demands.
Professional skills and experience Go Jane Go should look for: attention to detail, managerial skills, previous experience as an assistant, customer service skills, excellent communication skills.
Personality traits Go Jane Go should look for: perfectionism, confidence, a take-charge attitude.
Although working with a team may provide excellent benefits and results, an entrepreneur may not be ready for the costs and challenges of managing a team right away. Hiring an assistant is a great starting point in creating a team, as it encourages a woman business owner to learn to delegate effectively and provides a future link between the business owner and a team.
Women Entrepreneurs Getting Back on Track, Part 3 - Making the Change
Once a female entrepreneur has determined what caused her to stop living her ideal entrepreneurial type, and what she can do about it, she may feel ready to begin the transition to her new ideal type. At first, the transition may seem daunting - but with the right tools, strategies and motivation, a woman business owner can conquer her fears and rediscover the success she deserves.
A recent study reveals there are five distinct types of women in business. Based on professional market research of more than 3,500 women in business, this study shows that each type of business owner has a unique approach to running a business and therefore each one has a unique combination of needs. When a woman is living as her ideal entrepreneurial type, she feels satisfied, personally and professionally. This article outlines four steps a business owner must take when she is ready to make the change.
1. Assess the gaps between the current situation and the ideal situation, for the business owner and for the business. If an entrepreneur has previously lived as her ideal type, then she knows what that feels like, and it will be relatively easy for her to determine the changes she needs to make to become her ideal type again, even if that is a different type than she lived as previously. Assessing the business-related gaps will determine what adaptations the entrepreneur must make within the business so that it functions as she wants it to (whether that means sustaining itself or growing).
Advice: In determining her ideal type, the entrepreneur already should have examined her own behaviors, habits and belief systems and determined which ones she needs to change to become her ideal type. Now it is time for her to begin to change those behaviors, habits and belief systems. That means that in every situation, she must choose to act like her ideal type, even when doing so feels uncomfortable, difficult or challenging. Of course, setbacks will occur as a business owner falls back into familiar habits, but over time, as she continues to act like her ideal type, she will become her ideal type. As for the business itself, the entrepreneur must find ways for it to adapt, just like she is doing. For example, if a business previously offered graphic design services only to high profile clients but is now running short on new clients and/or jobs, maybe the business owner needs to branch out and donate her services to a nonprofit organization as it launches a fundraising event. This particular job may not bring in a paycheck, but providing the service is a great marketing tool and allows the entrepreneur to use her creativity. Also, the business owner could consider calling her contacts and letting them know about promotional prices she's offering, thereby gaining her some new clients.
2. Create a plan for change. Many entrepreneurs find that creating a written plan, or "to-do" list, helps keep them motivated when they're making a change. Writing down each step in the transformation provides an excellent visual reminder of each goal, and allows the entrepreneur to make changes and additions as she needs to. Plus, crossing off each completed item gives a business owner a sense of accomplishment.
Advice: Business owners should write down every single goal they want to accomplish, whether it's creating a new system for office organization or designing a new company web site. Then, they should break each main goal down into smaller steps. For example, the new system for office organization may require the entrepreneur to clear out or destroy her old files, create new file folders, relocate her filing cabinet to a location more convenient to her desk, buy a desktop organizer with designated slots for incoming and outgoing mail, buy a desktop calendar, clear the clutter on her desk and empty her desk drawer. Also, business owners should always closely monitor their progress, so they can celebrate their accomplishments and make adjustments where necessary.
3. Recruit a support system. No one can reach her goals alone, so business owners must not be afraid to ask for help and support in different forms.
Advice: Support systems can include several types of people: those actually doing the work with or for a business owner, those who can provide advice or resources that make doing the work easier, more efficient or less expensive, and those who can support the business owner as an individual with moral support or by holding her accountable.
4. Recognize and reward hard work. As women, we beat ourselves up a lot. Every business owner deserves to recognize and reward herself for confronting her challenges head on, and for making the sometimes-difficult changes necessary to fuel their transformation. The vast majority of people perform much better when they are praised and recognized, than they do when they are afraid of punishment.
Advice: Female entrepreneurs should give themselves loving care whenever they need it, so they can keep moving forward, ever more positively, and arrive at their final destination. Whether times are so tough they need to celebrate every single phone call they made without procrastinating, or they just need to celebrate the major milestones, those celebrations are important.
Taking the actual steps to shift to an ideal situation from one that feels less-than-ideal is gratifying, confidence-building and inspiring to business owners who have experienced setbacks in their businesses. By following these four steps, female entrepreneurs will find success.
Women Entrepreneurs Getting Back on Track, Part 2 - Determining the Future
"When life hands you lemons, make lemonade." But what if a female entrepreneur doesn't want lemonade? When changing circumstances take a woman business owner out of her ideal entrepreneurial type, she may determine that rather than going back to her previous type, she wants to move on to a new ideal. Before she does, though, she must determine what that ideal is, and whether it is truly ideal for her own situation.
Based on professional market research of more than 3,500 women in business, this study shows that each type of business owner has a unique approach to running a business and therefore each one has a unique combination of needs. When a woman is living as her ideal entrepreneurial type, she feels satisfied, personally and professionally. This article outlines three questions a business owner must ask herself when she is on the brink of change.
1. Is this a time for business growth, or a time to sustain? Business growth often requires more time and energy on the part of a business owner. Also, it increases the ratio of time spent strategizing to time spent creating. Therefore, an "ideal" type depends on the level of resources an entrepreneur is able to or wants to invest in her business.
Advice: If an entrepreneur doesn't feel like she is living her ideal type, and wants to grow her business and transform into a new type, she's probably considering becoming either a Jane Dough or a Go Jane Go type, since they generally run larger businesses. She must keep in mind that each entrepreneurial type comes with its own set of strengths and challenges, and "benefits" and "drawbacks," which may actually be different from how the business owner perceives them. For example, Jane Dough business owners often run large businesses, run teams of people, and bring home a high income. They also work long hours and spend more time strategizing than they do creating. Go Jane Go business owners often bring in a high income and love running their businesses and giving back to their communities, sometimes feeling overwhelmed in the process.
2. During this difficult time, has the business owner developed any habits or behaviors she must change or stop so she can become her ideal type? In the process of adapting to what has probably become a difficult situation, it is possible that a business owner may have developed previously uncharacteristic habits or behaviors. Maybe she has begun procrastinating because she is unhappy at work and finds it draining to deal with the problems. Perhaps she feels so overwhelmed with the day-to-day operations of the business that she has stopped communicating with her team members and/or clients. Or maybe she has completely stopped making time for herself and/or her loved ones as she struggles to keep her company afloat.
Advice: In evaluating her own behaviors (especially recently developed behaviors), a female entrepreneur can determine specific adjustments she needs to make in order to power herself into her type change. For example, if cash flow has lessened and she is feeling stressed about it, she may have started avoiding paying the bills. Not only is this behavior unproductive, but it also can put the company in danger and weaken relationships with vendors. When it's time to shift from one entrepreneurial type to another, it is essential that a business owner be cognizant of her own behaviors and how they affect her business, so that every time a decision arises, she can act like her ideal type - that is a powerful way to create change.
3. Is the business owner's current environment conducive to productivity, in work and in personal life? Every business owner lives in two different environments - Her physical space and the people around her. Environment dramatically impacts performance, and it is a great place for an entrepreneur to start when she is making a change.
Advice: Women business owners should consider the people around them and the physical spaces where they work and live, and then ask themselves what needs to be "cleaned up" for optimal performance. Living in clutter - physical or emotional - drains her energy. Female entrepreneurs should consider these actions when wishing to modify their environments:
• Organize and clean up messy desks or office space.
• Hang inspiring artwork in the office.
• Ensure that all office furniture is comfortable and that tools are in easy reach.
• Use color to create the right mood.
• De-clutter everywhere, even the house and the car.
• Eat healthy foods that boost energy.
• Limit or eliminate time spent with negative people and naysayers.
• If eliminating time with negative people is impossible, set clear boundaries, such as making "worrisome" topics off-limits for discussion.
• Meet and become surrounded by positive, inspirational people.
• Create or join a mastermind group (people interested in supporting each others' success).
When life hands a female entrepreneur lemons, she doesn't have to make lemonade - she can make anything she wants. By asking herself the right questions, and answering with her heart, she will be able to follow the recipe for her ideal type - and new success.
A Business Plan for Women Entrepreneurs
As a woman, the thought of leaving your current position to pursue your dream of starting a company can be daunting. But with the right planning and preparation, you'll be your own boss in no time. The first step to entrepreneurial success is writing a business plan. A business plan is a way to discuss your company, explore your finances, and set goals. Any entrepreneur coach will tell you that it's imperative to have a quality business plan to obtain investors who will fund your company.Here are the main categories you should include in your business plan:
Executive Summary: The executive summary should highlight the main points of your business plan. Although it's usually the first section of the plan, it's easiest to write this part last.
Company Description: Here you will describe your company's concept and goals. What is your philosophy? Foreseeable obstacles? What are your resources and where will you allocate them? If you have too many ideas floating around that it becomes difficult to hone in on one theme or philosophy, hiring a woman business coach can help. As a professional entrepreneur coach, they will help you sift through your ideas and pare them down to establish one cohesive plan.
Competitive Analysis: Researching your competitors will help you determine how your company should operate. Who is your competition? How are they successful? In what ways can they improve their operations? By answering these questions you'll be able to determine the best ways to get your company a step ahead of the competition.
Financial Plan: The goal of every business is to make a profit. How are you going to keep your costs low while still producing a quality service or product? Be specific! Investors want concrete ways that your business will make money because when you turn a profit, so will they.
Strategy and Implementation: This section should include how you're going to produce your product/service and who your staff will be. You'll want to include the amount of time and money it'll take you to prepare for your grand opening, how your management structure will work and what your hours of operation will be. Just like the financial plan, your investors are looking for specifics so don't hesitate to elaborate on budgets, dates and staff details.
A business plan can be long or short, but remember that in order to ensure future success, you should have distinct goals, a budget and a lot of perseverance. So get writing and create a successful future for yourself!
Women Entrepreneurs Getting Back on Track, Part 1 - Assessing the Cause
Life is a continuum - so change is inevitable. In the life of a female entrepreneur, then, this inevitability affects her not only personally, but also professionally. While some change results in higher profits and greater personal and professional satisfaction, other change may result in a situation that drains a business owner's resources and leaves her feeling unsure about the best next step for her business and for herself. This shift also may result in another shift: a previously content and confident business owner, living as her ideal entrepreneurial type, transforms into an entrepreneurial type that simply doesn't fit.
Based on professional market research of more than 3,500 women in business, this study shows that each type of business owner has a unique approach to running a business and therefore each one has a unique combination of needs. When a woman is living as her ideal entrepreneurial type, she feels satisfied, personally and professionally. This article outlines three of the main circumstances that may cause a woman previously living as her ideal type to transform into a less-than-ideal type - and provides advice for changing these circumstances so they can work their way back to ideal.
1. The business started undercapitalized and acquired more debt than can comfortably be carried given current revenue levels. One reason companies acquire debt in the early years is that, although the entrepreneur had some money set aside, their business did not hit its revenue projections on time. The result: the cash ran out before the revenue kicked in. Some women who fall into this category are savvy businesswomen who had previously run large corporate budgets, and were confident and accurate in determining the costs of running the business. However, when they projected how quickly sales would occur and money would come in, they were overly optimistic. They struggle to add more customers, watching their cash reserve run out, ultimately having to decide whether or not to go into (more) debt to keep the business afloat. Many of them end up making that investment because they have hopes for the business and they feel confident it will be profitable eventually.
Advice: Business owners must look at two aspects of the business financials right away to assess whether or not their business model is going to be profitable enough to help them transform back into their ideal entrepreneurial type. She should ask herself: Is it possible to make enough money with the existing model, and if so, what should she focus on immediately to create the best possible chance for the business to survive and thrive?
Entrepreneurs need to assess how much money they can realistically expect to come in, and how much is realistically going out. Revenue and expenses, when viewed together, paint a vivid picture of how successful the business will be. If an entrepreneur discovers that by the time her expenses go out (mortgage/rent, phone, Internet, groceries, doctor's visits, etc.), she is barely squeaking by, she can manipulate her business model to increase her income. Whether she increases her hourly rates or increases the number of billable hours she works each week, she can create concrete plans for increasing her income - using real, solid numbers.
2. Fluctuating business environments drove the profitability out of the business, and the business owner finds herself struggling with cash flow, revenues and/or business cost challenges. For example, a brilliant and successful entrepreneur who established a niche in marketing specialty products grew her business successfully until "me too" companies started chipping away at her market share. Increasing competition took away some of her business.
Advice: If a business owner believes that something outside of her control has caused her to shift into a less-than-ideal entrepreneurial type, she must adapt accordingly - while focusing on cash flow, and possibly reinvesting in the business to give it the jumpstart it needs. To accomplish all this, she must set goals and then create specific, step-by-step action plans for achieving each goal.
This owner of the specialty products marketing company began marketing existing products to new niche markets, and started diversifying into other fields via new divisions that were related to the initial niche. Entrepreneurs should keep in mind that momentum will build as they begin to achieve their goals. The key is to prepare to act by choosing the right focal points and then succeed in those specific areas.
3. The business owner is moving in too many directions at once. In some cases, a female entrepreneur has been successfully running her business for some time, and she decides to branch out. Her ultimate vision encompasses multiple streams of income and she tries to activate them all at once. This approach can be counterproductive in the short-term because the lack of a singular focus can make it difficult for her target market to understand her business model. In cases such as these, it is not possible to build marketing and sales efforts for such diverse income streams simultaneously.
Advice: Every entrepreneur, especially one who is struggling because she is not living as her ideal type, should examine her business concept, and her business model to ensure that her company in its current state can make the profit she needs. This will help her nail down a specific focus for getting back into her ideal type. When considering business concept, entrepreneurs may want to develop a one-sentence "catch phrase" to respond when someone asks, "What does your business do for people?" The key is to highlight a singular line of work, plus exactly what benefits customers can expect from using the business. For example, a business coach may say, "In my business, we're experts at helping business leaders be more effective, so they can make more money with less stress." In this statement, she has said who she helps (it's deliberately open-ended to include a variety of business leaders), and what she does for them (helps them make more money with less stress). When considering business model, entrepreneurs must determine whether their customers would want to buy their product or service in the form in which they're selling it. Maybe a business was running smoothly for years with the same business concept and business model - but with changes in the economy, it is not as profitable. In cases like this, a business owner can assess whether she could make focused minor or moderate changes to her business model to offer her services or products in a way that makes sense, now.
Change happens, always. The way a woman business owner reacts and adapts to change defines whether her company will simply survive or begin to thrive. By following the above advice during three common sets of circumstances, female entrepreneurs will hold the power they need to live their ideal type - and to find personal and professional satisfaction.
Based on professional market research of more than 3,500 women in business, this study shows that each type of business owner has a unique approach to running a business and therefore each one has a unique combination of needs. When a woman is living as her ideal entrepreneurial type, she feels satisfied, personally and professionally. This article outlines three of the main circumstances that may cause a woman previously living as her ideal type to transform into a less-than-ideal type - and provides advice for changing these circumstances so they can work their way back to ideal.
1. The business started undercapitalized and acquired more debt than can comfortably be carried given current revenue levels. One reason companies acquire debt in the early years is that, although the entrepreneur had some money set aside, their business did not hit its revenue projections on time. The result: the cash ran out before the revenue kicked in. Some women who fall into this category are savvy businesswomen who had previously run large corporate budgets, and were confident and accurate in determining the costs of running the business. However, when they projected how quickly sales would occur and money would come in, they were overly optimistic. They struggle to add more customers, watching their cash reserve run out, ultimately having to decide whether or not to go into (more) debt to keep the business afloat. Many of them end up making that investment because they have hopes for the business and they feel confident it will be profitable eventually.
Advice: Business owners must look at two aspects of the business financials right away to assess whether or not their business model is going to be profitable enough to help them transform back into their ideal entrepreneurial type. She should ask herself: Is it possible to make enough money with the existing model, and if so, what should she focus on immediately to create the best possible chance for the business to survive and thrive?
Entrepreneurs need to assess how much money they can realistically expect to come in, and how much is realistically going out. Revenue and expenses, when viewed together, paint a vivid picture of how successful the business will be. If an entrepreneur discovers that by the time her expenses go out (mortgage/rent, phone, Internet, groceries, doctor's visits, etc.), she is barely squeaking by, she can manipulate her business model to increase her income. Whether she increases her hourly rates or increases the number of billable hours she works each week, she can create concrete plans for increasing her income - using real, solid numbers.
2. Fluctuating business environments drove the profitability out of the business, and the business owner finds herself struggling with cash flow, revenues and/or business cost challenges. For example, a brilliant and successful entrepreneur who established a niche in marketing specialty products grew her business successfully until "me too" companies started chipping away at her market share. Increasing competition took away some of her business.
Advice: If a business owner believes that something outside of her control has caused her to shift into a less-than-ideal entrepreneurial type, she must adapt accordingly - while focusing on cash flow, and possibly reinvesting in the business to give it the jumpstart it needs. To accomplish all this, she must set goals and then create specific, step-by-step action plans for achieving each goal.
This owner of the specialty products marketing company began marketing existing products to new niche markets, and started diversifying into other fields via new divisions that were related to the initial niche. Entrepreneurs should keep in mind that momentum will build as they begin to achieve their goals. The key is to prepare to act by choosing the right focal points and then succeed in those specific areas.
3. The business owner is moving in too many directions at once. In some cases, a female entrepreneur has been successfully running her business for some time, and she decides to branch out. Her ultimate vision encompasses multiple streams of income and she tries to activate them all at once. This approach can be counterproductive in the short-term because the lack of a singular focus can make it difficult for her target market to understand her business model. In cases such as these, it is not possible to build marketing and sales efforts for such diverse income streams simultaneously.
Advice: Every entrepreneur, especially one who is struggling because she is not living as her ideal type, should examine her business concept, and her business model to ensure that her company in its current state can make the profit she needs. This will help her nail down a specific focus for getting back into her ideal type. When considering business concept, entrepreneurs may want to develop a one-sentence "catch phrase" to respond when someone asks, "What does your business do for people?" The key is to highlight a singular line of work, plus exactly what benefits customers can expect from using the business. For example, a business coach may say, "In my business, we're experts at helping business leaders be more effective, so they can make more money with less stress." In this statement, she has said who she helps (it's deliberately open-ended to include a variety of business leaders), and what she does for them (helps them make more money with less stress). When considering business model, entrepreneurs must determine whether their customers would want to buy their product or service in the form in which they're selling it. Maybe a business was running smoothly for years with the same business concept and business model - but with changes in the economy, it is not as profitable. In cases like this, a business owner can assess whether she could make focused minor or moderate changes to her business model to offer her services or products in a way that makes sense, now.
Change happens, always. The way a woman business owner reacts and adapts to change defines whether her company will simply survive or begin to thrive. By following the above advice during three common sets of circumstances, female entrepreneurs will hold the power they need to live their ideal type - and to find personal and professional satisfaction.
Middle Age Togetherness Proves the Importance of Togetherness For a New Age
Next week, I officially become a "woman of a certain age" or in her late forties. A lot has happened to radically change my life over the past year and it gives me pause for thought about how I want spend the second half of my life...
I've always been a big believer in the 'common good' and being true to yourself. Given that we are daily at risk of tripping over into a Moral Abyss, I tend to check my moral compass daily, be it in my personal or professional life.
In my formative years, I became involved in what has become a life-long commitment to work with others to improve peoples' lives and environment. What challenges me nowadays is that I that I want to continue these efforts as an entrepreneur. How to balance the pursuit of profit as a woman business owner, with 'making a difference'.
Ideas of 'empowerment' and 'citizenship', of achieving the greatest benefits for the greatest amount of people, through combined team effort is one of the ethical decisions I have made in my business.
I am not alone it seems, Price Waterhouse Coopers recently undertook research about the effects of the recession on women and found: "The research that we have done on women in the recession shows that 72 per cent say that it has got them thinking about a new start," she says. "And nearly half of them want to shift into a small business or a social enterprise". (Dame Julie Mellor quoted in the Times Online)
Collaboration is a survival strategy amongst entrepreneurs, especially in times of economic challenge in order to 'raise the boat for everybody'.
Lofty business ideals, maybe. I certainly don't lay any claim to easy answers.
I recently heard a speech from eminent philosopher and author, Mr Michael Sandel. I was gripped. How to express that it could be ok for people to make money and not burn the earth or each other in the process had been on my mind for weeks... He offered me some comfort I was heading in the right direction.
If my business entails sharing ideas on how people can achieve dreams of wealth, I need to be clear that this is indeed a 'worthy' goal, given the belief I wrestle with about money 'being the route of all evil'.
Professor Sandel called economics "spurious". This seemed counter-intuitive to me. I had been listening to debates on taxation, inflation, employment and economics on the radio for years; I thought I was gradually figuring out how we all fit into place with these big systems; I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Knowing that he was wiser than me, I turned the radio up and listened - my practical business activities could wait! This was far too important.
What he was getting at, was that economists tell us what we SHOULD be doing for the health of the economy: GDP, employment, inflation and so forth (work harder, for longer hours, accept high taxation, etc) - as if it was all about the Economy and money. But all of these subjects are MORAL and political issues; they have to be weighed up in terms of justice, fairness, ecology and so on. We, the community, has to have their say in order to discover ways to go about our daily life which enables the future of our communities, our families AND our environment to be secure...
The role of economics is merely to inform us of what might be the practical results of our decisions, no more than that. The crucial words here: 'might be'. We are still learning all of the time, because the world is constantly evolving, as we learn new things about our world on a daily basis. Answers are not carved in stone!
So, if our everyday behaviour as individual local citizens and even nations of people and international communities effects the balance of payments, distribution of welfare, health of the planet, the future of all living beings, for instance, then there are ethical implications of ignoring getting involved with each other in subjects about which we care passionately. In other words, "If you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem".
When I worked for other people in the past, we shared the same ideas to some degree, but quite often the politics of different personalities and value systems working closely together could get in the way of positive results. In the words of my all time favourite song-writers, Neil Peart and Geddy Lee: "Glittering prizes and endless compromises shatter the illusion of integrity."
So now here I am, a mature woman, a newbie woman business owner; I get to CHOOSE whom I work with. I select my team carefully. If I am not convinced that they want to raise the bar for themselves and others, then I really have little interest in supporting them. It's just not how I want to live my life. Fortunately, there are plenty of would be business owners out there who will.
I set out in my working career in paid jobs working alongside or on behalf of communities in the belief we were changing lives for the better. I am still that person. Nowadays my methods are different, but the purpose remains. There's hardly anything more exciting to me than hearing from someone who wants to change their own life, but who also has big dreams.
Some might say that knowing how the world really is, is depressing and de-motivating. Not for me! I know what change is possible when people work together; the trick is finding the right people to do the job and who want the same results. I always did like a challenge! Hope, combined with action and combined effort are the only way any of us will achieve success and fulfil our dreams.
I want more and better for more people and planet and I intend to build a team who feel the same. So what about you? What would you change if you had the economic power to do it?
I go into this subject in more depth in my blog and would really appreciate hearing others views on their aspirations beyond making money and having a successful business and how you intend to fulfill those ambitions.
I've always been a big believer in the 'common good' and being true to yourself. Given that we are daily at risk of tripping over into a Moral Abyss, I tend to check my moral compass daily, be it in my personal or professional life.
In my formative years, I became involved in what has become a life-long commitment to work with others to improve peoples' lives and environment. What challenges me nowadays is that I that I want to continue these efforts as an entrepreneur. How to balance the pursuit of profit as a woman business owner, with 'making a difference'.
Ideas of 'empowerment' and 'citizenship', of achieving the greatest benefits for the greatest amount of people, through combined team effort is one of the ethical decisions I have made in my business.
I am not alone it seems, Price Waterhouse Coopers recently undertook research about the effects of the recession on women and found: "The research that we have done on women in the recession shows that 72 per cent say that it has got them thinking about a new start," she says. "And nearly half of them want to shift into a small business or a social enterprise". (Dame Julie Mellor quoted in the Times Online)
Collaboration is a survival strategy amongst entrepreneurs, especially in times of economic challenge in order to 'raise the boat for everybody'.
Lofty business ideals, maybe. I certainly don't lay any claim to easy answers.
I recently heard a speech from eminent philosopher and author, Mr Michael Sandel. I was gripped. How to express that it could be ok for people to make money and not burn the earth or each other in the process had been on my mind for weeks... He offered me some comfort I was heading in the right direction.
If my business entails sharing ideas on how people can achieve dreams of wealth, I need to be clear that this is indeed a 'worthy' goal, given the belief I wrestle with about money 'being the route of all evil'.
Professor Sandel called economics "spurious". This seemed counter-intuitive to me. I had been listening to debates on taxation, inflation, employment and economics on the radio for years; I thought I was gradually figuring out how we all fit into place with these big systems; I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Knowing that he was wiser than me, I turned the radio up and listened - my practical business activities could wait! This was far too important.
What he was getting at, was that economists tell us what we SHOULD be doing for the health of the economy: GDP, employment, inflation and so forth (work harder, for longer hours, accept high taxation, etc) - as if it was all about the Economy and money. But all of these subjects are MORAL and political issues; they have to be weighed up in terms of justice, fairness, ecology and so on. We, the community, has to have their say in order to discover ways to go about our daily life which enables the future of our communities, our families AND our environment to be secure...
The role of economics is merely to inform us of what might be the practical results of our decisions, no more than that. The crucial words here: 'might be'. We are still learning all of the time, because the world is constantly evolving, as we learn new things about our world on a daily basis. Answers are not carved in stone!
So, if our everyday behaviour as individual local citizens and even nations of people and international communities effects the balance of payments, distribution of welfare, health of the planet, the future of all living beings, for instance, then there are ethical implications of ignoring getting involved with each other in subjects about which we care passionately. In other words, "If you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem".
When I worked for other people in the past, we shared the same ideas to some degree, but quite often the politics of different personalities and value systems working closely together could get in the way of positive results. In the words of my all time favourite song-writers, Neil Peart and Geddy Lee: "Glittering prizes and endless compromises shatter the illusion of integrity."
So now here I am, a mature woman, a newbie woman business owner; I get to CHOOSE whom I work with. I select my team carefully. If I am not convinced that they want to raise the bar for themselves and others, then I really have little interest in supporting them. It's just not how I want to live my life. Fortunately, there are plenty of would be business owners out there who will.
I set out in my working career in paid jobs working alongside or on behalf of communities in the belief we were changing lives for the better. I am still that person. Nowadays my methods are different, but the purpose remains. There's hardly anything more exciting to me than hearing from someone who wants to change their own life, but who also has big dreams.
Some might say that knowing how the world really is, is depressing and de-motivating. Not for me! I know what change is possible when people work together; the trick is finding the right people to do the job and who want the same results. I always did like a challenge! Hope, combined with action and combined effort are the only way any of us will achieve success and fulfil our dreams.
I want more and better for more people and planet and I intend to build a team who feel the same. So what about you? What would you change if you had the economic power to do it?
I go into this subject in more depth in my blog and would really appreciate hearing others views on their aspirations beyond making money and having a successful business and how you intend to fulfill those ambitions.
Best of the Janes - Getting Back on Track
While any female entrepreneur who has experienced a setback in her business will ultimately take a multi-pronged approach to getting back on track, certain specific elements of the rise to ideal apply differently to each entrepreneurial type.
A recent study reveals there are five distinct types of women in business. Based on professional market research of more than 3,500 women in business, this study shows that each type of business owner has a unique approach to running a business and therefore each one has a unique combination of needs. When a woman is living as her ideal entrepreneurial type, she feels satisfied, personally and professionally. This article outlines six ideas for jumpstarting cash flow following a business setback.
Most women business owners who have experienced a setback are living a Tenacity Jane phase. Tenacity Jane is an entrepreneur with an undeniable passion for her business, and one who tends to be struggling with cash flow. As a result, she's working longer hours, and making less money than she'd like. Nevertheless, Tenacity Jane is bound and determined to make her business a success. At 31% of women in business, Tenacity Janes make up the largest group of female entrepreneurs. Typically, a woman business owner becomes a Tenacity Jane for one of five reasons: she has a craft or skill, but lacks business knowledge, the business started undercapitalized or acquired more debt than can be comfortably carried at current revenue levels, she doesn't charge enough for her services, she lacks focus and is trying to accomplish too much all at once, or something has changed in the industry or cost structure that has caused a once-prosperous business to falter financially.
To move forward from a Tenacity Jane phase, a woman business owner must:
1. Invest in her own knowledge. New knowledge can be the key to jumpstarting profitability. Even if she is an expert in her craft, she may not have the knowledge she needs to run a successful business. Odds are, she recognizes where she can improve her knowledge for the betterment of her business. An entrepreneur can create her own training plan or she can hire someone with expertise to fill in the gaps. Whether she reads books, buys home study courses or attends live classes, an entrepreneur who builds her knowledge base dramatically increases her chances of boosting her profit. Some areas where she may need new knowledge: marketing (specifically, email marketing, social networking as a marketing tool, etc.), financial management, team building and delegation, and project and time management.
2. Identify her target market and its needs, and then market accordingly. By surveying her existing customers, a female entrepreneur can get an inexpensive and very accurate picture of which of her products and services are most in-demand, and of the profiles of the people who are using them the most. Then, she can market to similar people, thus increasing her chances of attracting ideal clients who need (and will pay for) her services.
3. Evaluate her pricing and raise it, if possible. Whether she "started low" to win business and never raised her rates, or she over-estimated her profit margin, it never hurts for an entrepreneur to evaluate how her pricing compares with that of other similar professionals in her area. She can send surveys to existing customers, asking them about industry pricing, and call competitors and ask for a price sheet. Also, by evaluating her costs and margin, she can determine whether she could increase her margin slightly and therefore increase her profits. When considering hourly rates, a female business owner should remember to include the cost of taking time off for vacation, and the time she spends working non-billable hours marketing, paying bills, etc. She should consider what each project or unit is worth to her - and create a guideline for herself about how much she has to charge to feel properly compensated.
4. Network. By networking with other like-minded professionals, a woman business owner creates opportunities for a support system in which she can share ideas and information, and for getting word of mouth referrals. Also, networking provides chances for affiliate relationships, in which two professionals who offer related services market their products together.
5. Upsell. Business owners can drive profit fairly easily with a little extra work through consistent upselling. In this sales approach, every time someone buys from the entrepreneur, she offers them a chance to pay just a little bit more for an expanded service or an augmented product. For example, if she sells a necklace, she upsells to include a fancy jewelry box. If she sells an information product, she upsells to a continuity product such as a newsletter.
6. Communicate regularly with information and offers. Every business owner probably has a list of prospects and current customers. A female entrepreneur must recognize that the more frequently she communicates with her prospects and customers, the more frequently she'll be on their minds - increasing the likelihood that they'll buy from her! Business owners can employ (almost) effortless marketing methods for communicating regularly, such as social networking, blogging and newsletters.
It is common for a business owner to experience a setback within her company. Fortunately, by following specific steps and guidelines, and by using the six cash flow jumpstart strategies listed above, a female entrepreneur can overcome her setbacks and be on her way to living her ideal entrepreneurial type and enjoying her successes.
A recent study reveals there are five distinct types of women in business. Based on professional market research of more than 3,500 women in business, this study shows that each type of business owner has a unique approach to running a business and therefore each one has a unique combination of needs. When a woman is living as her ideal entrepreneurial type, she feels satisfied, personally and professionally. This article outlines six ideas for jumpstarting cash flow following a business setback.
Most women business owners who have experienced a setback are living a Tenacity Jane phase. Tenacity Jane is an entrepreneur with an undeniable passion for her business, and one who tends to be struggling with cash flow. As a result, she's working longer hours, and making less money than she'd like. Nevertheless, Tenacity Jane is bound and determined to make her business a success. At 31% of women in business, Tenacity Janes make up the largest group of female entrepreneurs. Typically, a woman business owner becomes a Tenacity Jane for one of five reasons: she has a craft or skill, but lacks business knowledge, the business started undercapitalized or acquired more debt than can be comfortably carried at current revenue levels, she doesn't charge enough for her services, she lacks focus and is trying to accomplish too much all at once, or something has changed in the industry or cost structure that has caused a once-prosperous business to falter financially.
To move forward from a Tenacity Jane phase, a woman business owner must:
1. Invest in her own knowledge. New knowledge can be the key to jumpstarting profitability. Even if she is an expert in her craft, she may not have the knowledge she needs to run a successful business. Odds are, she recognizes where she can improve her knowledge for the betterment of her business. An entrepreneur can create her own training plan or she can hire someone with expertise to fill in the gaps. Whether she reads books, buys home study courses or attends live classes, an entrepreneur who builds her knowledge base dramatically increases her chances of boosting her profit. Some areas where she may need new knowledge: marketing (specifically, email marketing, social networking as a marketing tool, etc.), financial management, team building and delegation, and project and time management.
2. Identify her target market and its needs, and then market accordingly. By surveying her existing customers, a female entrepreneur can get an inexpensive and very accurate picture of which of her products and services are most in-demand, and of the profiles of the people who are using them the most. Then, she can market to similar people, thus increasing her chances of attracting ideal clients who need (and will pay for) her services.
3. Evaluate her pricing and raise it, if possible. Whether she "started low" to win business and never raised her rates, or she over-estimated her profit margin, it never hurts for an entrepreneur to evaluate how her pricing compares with that of other similar professionals in her area. She can send surveys to existing customers, asking them about industry pricing, and call competitors and ask for a price sheet. Also, by evaluating her costs and margin, she can determine whether she could increase her margin slightly and therefore increase her profits. When considering hourly rates, a female business owner should remember to include the cost of taking time off for vacation, and the time she spends working non-billable hours marketing, paying bills, etc. She should consider what each project or unit is worth to her - and create a guideline for herself about how much she has to charge to feel properly compensated.
4. Network. By networking with other like-minded professionals, a woman business owner creates opportunities for a support system in which she can share ideas and information, and for getting word of mouth referrals. Also, networking provides chances for affiliate relationships, in which two professionals who offer related services market their products together.
5. Upsell. Business owners can drive profit fairly easily with a little extra work through consistent upselling. In this sales approach, every time someone buys from the entrepreneur, she offers them a chance to pay just a little bit more for an expanded service or an augmented product. For example, if she sells a necklace, she upsells to include a fancy jewelry box. If she sells an information product, she upsells to a continuity product such as a newsletter.
6. Communicate regularly with information and offers. Every business owner probably has a list of prospects and current customers. A female entrepreneur must recognize that the more frequently she communicates with her prospects and customers, the more frequently she'll be on their minds - increasing the likelihood that they'll buy from her! Business owners can employ (almost) effortless marketing methods for communicating regularly, such as social networking, blogging and newsletters.
It is common for a business owner to experience a setback within her company. Fortunately, by following specific steps and guidelines, and by using the six cash flow jumpstart strategies listed above, a female entrepreneur can overcome her setbacks and be on her way to living her ideal entrepreneurial type and enjoying her successes.
3 Clever Ways Creative Women Entrepreneurs Can Finally Get Organized!
If you're a creative woman entrepreneur then chances are good you've labeled yourself as someone who just can't seem to get, or stay, organized. Popping up with new ideas for your business or about how to help people? Easy! Figuring out a filing system or how to get those piles of paper up off your floor? Ugh...well, that's a different story now, isn't it?!
What organized people don't understand about creative souls is that the thought of being organized seems to be in conflict with our creative spirit.
Accurate or not, creative types feel that if everything is neat and tidy then their creativity will be contained as well.
Well, I'm about to bust that myth because I am a both highly creative AND organized woman business owner. In fact, it's when my papers, email and office are the most organized that I am the most creative.
So how do I keep both ideals-creativity and order-in harmony? The answers are easier than you might think.
Here are three simple tips I use to keep my creative muse inspired and my office organized:
Creative Organizing Tip #1: Make Space
Creativity requires space. For me, that means space in my physical environment as well as a feeling of spaciousness in my body. If you want to create success in your woman small business then it makes sense that you'll need space to accomplish that.
ACTION: Pick another room, closet or garage and move everything that is piled up on the floor there now. Deal with it later but for now, enjoy the space you've just created.
Creative Organizing Tip #2: Make the System Match YOUR Creative Flair!
Creative women entrepreneurs hate being hemmed in by someone else's system. Solution? Customize the system to match YOUR style, not the other way around! Use lots of bright colors for your files. If following the traditional A-B-C filing order isn't your thing, then file in a way that matches YOUR creative flair.
ACTION: Pick an area of organization that feels difficult. What would brighten it up or make it feel more playful for you? For example, I eschew lots of folders in favor of three-ring binders that I decorate using inspiring images and motivational phrases. Binders keep my office neat and tidy and the information right within my reach.
Creative Organizing Tip #3: Quit Telling Stories
When I interviewed Fearless Organizing Expert Elizabeth Hagen, she told me that people with a lot of clutter typically have a story attached to each item.
Solution? Quit telling stories such as "I might need it again" or "Uncle Bob gave me this golf-bag shaped business card holder." (Tell Uncle Bob thanks but since you don't golf, donate it to a local resale shop that supports a charity).
ACTION: Pick up ten items in your office right now. What story have you told yourself about each item? Quit the story and immediately get rid of at least seven of those items.
I bless the success of my high six-figure business on my ability to comfortably integrate creativity with being organized. You can too, if you remember that being creative actually gives woman small business owners an edge when it comes to being organized because you can create the organizing solution that works for YOU!
What organized people don't understand about creative souls is that the thought of being organized seems to be in conflict with our creative spirit.
Accurate or not, creative types feel that if everything is neat and tidy then their creativity will be contained as well.
Well, I'm about to bust that myth because I am a both highly creative AND organized woman business owner. In fact, it's when my papers, email and office are the most organized that I am the most creative.
So how do I keep both ideals-creativity and order-in harmony? The answers are easier than you might think.
Here are three simple tips I use to keep my creative muse inspired and my office organized:
Creative Organizing Tip #1: Make Space
Creativity requires space. For me, that means space in my physical environment as well as a feeling of spaciousness in my body. If you want to create success in your woman small business then it makes sense that you'll need space to accomplish that.
ACTION: Pick another room, closet or garage and move everything that is piled up on the floor there now. Deal with it later but for now, enjoy the space you've just created.
Creative Organizing Tip #2: Make the System Match YOUR Creative Flair!
Creative women entrepreneurs hate being hemmed in by someone else's system. Solution? Customize the system to match YOUR style, not the other way around! Use lots of bright colors for your files. If following the traditional A-B-C filing order isn't your thing, then file in a way that matches YOUR creative flair.
ACTION: Pick an area of organization that feels difficult. What would brighten it up or make it feel more playful for you? For example, I eschew lots of folders in favor of three-ring binders that I decorate using inspiring images and motivational phrases. Binders keep my office neat and tidy and the information right within my reach.
Creative Organizing Tip #3: Quit Telling Stories
When I interviewed Fearless Organizing Expert Elizabeth Hagen, she told me that people with a lot of clutter typically have a story attached to each item.
Solution? Quit telling stories such as "I might need it again" or "Uncle Bob gave me this golf-bag shaped business card holder." (Tell Uncle Bob thanks but since you don't golf, donate it to a local resale shop that supports a charity).
ACTION: Pick up ten items in your office right now. What story have you told yourself about each item? Quit the story and immediately get rid of at least seven of those items.
I bless the success of my high six-figure business on my ability to comfortably integrate creativity with being organized. You can too, if you remember that being creative actually gives woman small business owners an edge when it comes to being organized because you can create the organizing solution that works for YOU!
Your Marketing Soul Plan for 2008
If traditional marketing plans work so well how come more woman business owners don't make them?
Because they're boring, that's why.
I mean, really, creating a traditional marketing plan is about as exciting as picking lint off of a sweater. Hardly the stuff to feed and nourish inspiration!
Plus, for the soul-inspired woman entrepreneur, a traditional marketing plan fails to capture the heart and spirit of our dreams and ambitions.
So I've created an alternative marketing plan that skillfully weaves together marketing must-haves with what matters most to furthering our Soul's Divine Mission(TM).
Here are five key elements you can use to create your own Marketing Soul Plan for 2008 and make this year, YOUR year!
Marketing Soul Plan Element #1: Clarity
Who are you most attracted to working with who will pay for what you offer? There is no virtue in trying to help women entrepreneurs who don't value what you do. Instead, choose a tribe of women entrepreneurs who are hungry and eager to have their problem solved and are generous in paying for that help.
Marketing Soul Plan Element #2: Money
Who else wants to be a Spiritual Millionaire(TM)? I do, and I am well on my way to achieving that goal with my woman owned business. If you're one of those woman business owners who have been holding back from allowing money to flow abundantly into your business (and hence, your life) then it's time to do some soul-searching to clear out your old money stories.
Yes, it's okay to be spiritual AND rich... so how much do you want to make in 2008? Choose a number to include in your Marketing Soul Plan that is both a stretch and realistic. Write it down, and then decide how much you want to create every 90 days and write those numbers down too. Stay focused on your Marketing Soul Plan numbers as you decide how you spend your time each day.
Marketing Soul Plan Element #3: Boundaries
The road to success isn't paved with good intentions (or affirmations); it's lined with great boundaries that honor you and your Soul's Divine Mission(TM). What are five boundaries that you've been soft on? Those are costing you big time in lost focus, lost income and a lost sense of your own personal power. List them out in your Marketing Soul Plan along with one small action you, as a woman entrepreneur, are a commitment to taking to clean up each of them.
Marketing Soul Plan Element #4: Perfectionism
Perfectionism is fear in disguise. It's simply a smoke-screen that women entrepreneurs' egos create to keep them playing small or hiding out. Include in your Marketing Soul Plan this statement: "I agree, commit and promise to take action BEFORE I feel ready, BEFORE I feel that I know enough and BEFORE I know how it's all going to turn out!" Then do it and see how much you leapfrog ahead of where you are now.
Marketing Soul Plan Element #5: Receiving
There's no point in practicing gratitude and attraction principles if you aren't also practicing receiving. If you believe that the universe wants to give to your woman owned business then you must be skilled at receiving. So where to practice? How about starting by raising your fees, asking for a referral or even just accepting a compliment with a gracious "Thank you?"
My vision for you is that 2008 is truly YOUR year. Use these simple guidelines to create your own Marketing Soul Plan and it will be!
Because they're boring, that's why.
I mean, really, creating a traditional marketing plan is about as exciting as picking lint off of a sweater. Hardly the stuff to feed and nourish inspiration!
Plus, for the soul-inspired woman entrepreneur, a traditional marketing plan fails to capture the heart and spirit of our dreams and ambitions.
So I've created an alternative marketing plan that skillfully weaves together marketing must-haves with what matters most to furthering our Soul's Divine Mission(TM).
Here are five key elements you can use to create your own Marketing Soul Plan for 2008 and make this year, YOUR year!
Marketing Soul Plan Element #1: Clarity
Who are you most attracted to working with who will pay for what you offer? There is no virtue in trying to help women entrepreneurs who don't value what you do. Instead, choose a tribe of women entrepreneurs who are hungry and eager to have their problem solved and are generous in paying for that help.
Marketing Soul Plan Element #2: Money
Who else wants to be a Spiritual Millionaire(TM)? I do, and I am well on my way to achieving that goal with my woman owned business. If you're one of those woman business owners who have been holding back from allowing money to flow abundantly into your business (and hence, your life) then it's time to do some soul-searching to clear out your old money stories.
Yes, it's okay to be spiritual AND rich... so how much do you want to make in 2008? Choose a number to include in your Marketing Soul Plan that is both a stretch and realistic. Write it down, and then decide how much you want to create every 90 days and write those numbers down too. Stay focused on your Marketing Soul Plan numbers as you decide how you spend your time each day.
Marketing Soul Plan Element #3: Boundaries
The road to success isn't paved with good intentions (or affirmations); it's lined with great boundaries that honor you and your Soul's Divine Mission(TM). What are five boundaries that you've been soft on? Those are costing you big time in lost focus, lost income and a lost sense of your own personal power. List them out in your Marketing Soul Plan along with one small action you, as a woman entrepreneur, are a commitment to taking to clean up each of them.
Marketing Soul Plan Element #4: Perfectionism
Perfectionism is fear in disguise. It's simply a smoke-screen that women entrepreneurs' egos create to keep them playing small or hiding out. Include in your Marketing Soul Plan this statement: "I agree, commit and promise to take action BEFORE I feel ready, BEFORE I feel that I know enough and BEFORE I know how it's all going to turn out!" Then do it and see how much you leapfrog ahead of where you are now.
Marketing Soul Plan Element #5: Receiving
There's no point in practicing gratitude and attraction principles if you aren't also practicing receiving. If you believe that the universe wants to give to your woman owned business then you must be skilled at receiving. So where to practice? How about starting by raising your fees, asking for a referral or even just accepting a compliment with a gracious "Thank you?"
My vision for you is that 2008 is truly YOUR year. Use these simple guidelines to create your own Marketing Soul Plan and it will be!
Increase Sales Tip - Hire a Woman For a Results Driven Sales Person
Do you want to increase sales because your sales are lagging? Have you considered hiring a woman?
Women in business are an exploding factor within the American economy. This growing force must be doing something right to have high profits than other business. One might even speculate that women are better sales people than men given what the research suggests.
Currently, do you have women in your sales force? If so, how is their performance to your male sales force? If not, are some of your policies negatively affecting their long term sales performance?
For example, women in sales usually are much better relationship builders than men. They will take the time to establish a relationship of trust and mutual respect.
As a sales manager and sales trainer, I have witnessed first hand that women are better in sales than men in today's business marketplace. For when women build relationships, they are building loyal customers.
From my own personal experiences as a woman sales person, woman business owner and observing others of both sexes in sales, I have observed women:
* Reacting faster to customers' calls
* Answering questions with far greater detail to ensure customer loyalty
* Going the extra mile in making sure the customer is beyond satisfied, but truly loyal
Women in business and women in sales also for the most part are not after the big, multi-dollar contracts, but rather want to demonstrate how they can handle the same, day to day sales and service. These results driven individuals understand that building a strong relationships will deliver far more in the long term from profitability to overall sales revenue. This may be why in the last decade women business owners now own 10.4 million of the 26 million privately held businesses.
Another reason why I believe if you wish to increase sales is to hire a woman is because the majority of women in sales that I know place a greater emphasis on values. These ladies be them women sales persons or women business owners will not do the wink and the nod to get the business. Yes, there are some that still do, but from my personal observations during the last 10 years, most women believe that values cannot be compromised because of their solid relationships with their clients.
The final reason is personal experience. During the last year, every time I attend a networking event, it has always been a man trying to sell me something without building a relationship. And actions always speak louder than words.
Women in business are an exploding factor within the American economy. This growing force must be doing something right to have high profits than other business. One might even speculate that women are better sales people than men given what the research suggests.
Currently, do you have women in your sales force? If so, how is their performance to your male sales force? If not, are some of your policies negatively affecting their long term sales performance?
For example, women in sales usually are much better relationship builders than men. They will take the time to establish a relationship of trust and mutual respect.
As a sales manager and sales trainer, I have witnessed first hand that women are better in sales than men in today's business marketplace. For when women build relationships, they are building loyal customers.
From my own personal experiences as a woman sales person, woman business owner and observing others of both sexes in sales, I have observed women:
* Reacting faster to customers' calls
* Answering questions with far greater detail to ensure customer loyalty
* Going the extra mile in making sure the customer is beyond satisfied, but truly loyal
Women in business and women in sales also for the most part are not after the big, multi-dollar contracts, but rather want to demonstrate how they can handle the same, day to day sales and service. These results driven individuals understand that building a strong relationships will deliver far more in the long term from profitability to overall sales revenue. This may be why in the last decade women business owners now own 10.4 million of the 26 million privately held businesses.
Another reason why I believe if you wish to increase sales is to hire a woman is because the majority of women in sales that I know place a greater emphasis on values. These ladies be them women sales persons or women business owners will not do the wink and the nod to get the business. Yes, there are some that still do, but from my personal observations during the last 10 years, most women believe that values cannot be compromised because of their solid relationships with their clients.
The final reason is personal experience. During the last year, every time I attend a networking event, it has always been a man trying to sell me something without building a relationship. And actions always speak louder than words.
The Business Profitability Difference
For every woman owned company that is successful, there are three or more who are not. What's the difference? It just might be the difference in the mindset of the woman business owner.
Most business women who start their own company do so because they are looking for more interesting ways to use their mind and their talent while allowing them the freedom to make their own choices. Indeed, that's one of the advantages of business ownership. But, if the business isn't profitable it won't last very long.
Interestingly, intelligence and talent seem to have nothing to do with success, as many a woman business owner ,who ended up shutting down their business, can attest.
Edith Piaf, one of France's greatest singers who at one time lived on the streets, once said, "Money? How did I lose it? I never did lose it. I just never knew where it went."
If you find yourself with this financial dilemma you're certainly not alone.
The problem for many of us business women is that we were taught early on that making money was not "nice". It came from our puritan roots and has been passed down through the generations. Surely you've heard "money is the root of all evil". The question is ... do you believe it?
Many women also feel they don't have a right to make a lot of money. A woman owned company 40 years ago was considered nothing more than a hobby. Television during that era convinced us that "father knows best" and it is the man of the house who should be the breadwinner of the family.
You may hold any of these hidden beliefs without even being aware of it. That is because the roots of our beliefs go very deep, and while we may not be consciously aware of these thoughts, it is possibly the reason you are not experiencing business profitability.
So what can you do to improve your business profitability and success as a woman business owner?
Take action. Here's how:
1. Identify how you feel about money and if it's your beliefs that are keeping you from making the kind of income you want and need. To find out if it's your mindset about money that is holding you back, ask yourself how you feel about people who have money. If your reaction is a slightly negative or uncomfortable feeling, dig deeper. Observe what thoughts pop into your head without judging them. You may begin to see a pattern of negative thoughts that you have associated with money.
2. Now, give yourself permission to let go of those thoughts. Realize that how you feel is what keeps you from reaching your potential in business. Begin to recognize that money is nothing more than paper. It can do us no harm and it certainly is not evil. It is what people do with money that makes all the difference. Ask any woman owned company what they do with their profits and the majority of the time they will have a favorite charity or charities they support financially. Realize that having money is actually good. It provides us security, enjoyment and the ability to make a difference for others
3. Use self-talk to improve your confidence and change your beliefs. It takes serious effort to change beliefs but, if you're serious about success, you will find a way to do it. As you begin to question your beliefs, understand that what is past is OK. It's all you knew. Don't beat yourself up over it for your past financial mistakes. Instead, look at this as a great learning experience. Self-talk is used by NLP experts and many positive thinkers as a way to improve people's lives. We all experience self-talk even if we don't realize we're doing it. Why not self-talk on purpose? Once we become aware of our internal dialog about money we can begin the journey to improve our business profitability. Tell yourself every single morning when you get out of bed "It is OK to make money and today I'm going to work on it". When you go to bed at night, remind yourself of all you've done that day to help you improve your financial picture and congratulate yourself. You'll sleep better too.
4. Get more informed about business finances. Have a working knowledge of how assets and liabilities affect your bottom line. Many financial companies have free literature that teaches how to read a balance sheet and a financial statement so that you understand more about your financial picture. You may also find this information online. In addition, you need a financial plan for your business just like you need a financial plan for yourself. This is the step by step action plan based on where you are today and where you want to be in the future. It's a roadmap for your personal financial success and your business profitability. If you've never done a financial plan you can get started with eFinPLAN, a financial planning software that is easy and inexpensive to do it at home. It will not only teach you how to think about money, but get you started on the path to financial freedom.
5. Analyze your product or service, your sales, and your expenses, then decide where you could improve. Take a look at your product. Is it one you believe in? Do you really feel good about what it can do for others? If not, you'll find it hard to sell so it might be time to look around for something else. If you do believe in your product or service, then it's time to look at your sales. How many prospects are you reaching per day? Is it enough? If you're uncertain about how to increase the number of prospects you reach or how to close them, you might consider getting some training. Find more information on how to start and grow a profitable women owned company at WomenCorp. Next, look at your expenses. How much does your product cost when you include the cost of your labor, office rent, utilities and travel? Is there a way you can change that picture to reduce expenses or increase your price to cover them?
6. Enjoy the results! When you focus on improving your profits you can't help but improve the long term potential for your business. And remember to congratulate yourself and acknowledge your accomplishment.
In Jack Canfield's "The Power of Focus" he shows how just by focusing on what you want and reviewing it regularly, you will begin to see it appear in your life.
Remember, the past doesn't matter. You can recover and be on your way to improved business profitability in a matter of months. But without action, nothing will happen.
So get started today. With the right mindset, you are half way there to having a successful woman owned company that everyone admires and will provide you a source of great income and immense satisfaction.
Most business women who start their own company do so because they are looking for more interesting ways to use their mind and their talent while allowing them the freedom to make their own choices. Indeed, that's one of the advantages of business ownership. But, if the business isn't profitable it won't last very long.
Interestingly, intelligence and talent seem to have nothing to do with success, as many a woman business owner ,who ended up shutting down their business, can attest.
Edith Piaf, one of France's greatest singers who at one time lived on the streets, once said, "Money? How did I lose it? I never did lose it. I just never knew where it went."
If you find yourself with this financial dilemma you're certainly not alone.
The problem for many of us business women is that we were taught early on that making money was not "nice". It came from our puritan roots and has been passed down through the generations. Surely you've heard "money is the root of all evil". The question is ... do you believe it?
Many women also feel they don't have a right to make a lot of money. A woman owned company 40 years ago was considered nothing more than a hobby. Television during that era convinced us that "father knows best" and it is the man of the house who should be the breadwinner of the family.
You may hold any of these hidden beliefs without even being aware of it. That is because the roots of our beliefs go very deep, and while we may not be consciously aware of these thoughts, it is possibly the reason you are not experiencing business profitability.
So what can you do to improve your business profitability and success as a woman business owner?
Take action. Here's how:
1. Identify how you feel about money and if it's your beliefs that are keeping you from making the kind of income you want and need. To find out if it's your mindset about money that is holding you back, ask yourself how you feel about people who have money. If your reaction is a slightly negative or uncomfortable feeling, dig deeper. Observe what thoughts pop into your head without judging them. You may begin to see a pattern of negative thoughts that you have associated with money.
2. Now, give yourself permission to let go of those thoughts. Realize that how you feel is what keeps you from reaching your potential in business. Begin to recognize that money is nothing more than paper. It can do us no harm and it certainly is not evil. It is what people do with money that makes all the difference. Ask any woman owned company what they do with their profits and the majority of the time they will have a favorite charity or charities they support financially. Realize that having money is actually good. It provides us security, enjoyment and the ability to make a difference for others
3. Use self-talk to improve your confidence and change your beliefs. It takes serious effort to change beliefs but, if you're serious about success, you will find a way to do it. As you begin to question your beliefs, understand that what is past is OK. It's all you knew. Don't beat yourself up over it for your past financial mistakes. Instead, look at this as a great learning experience. Self-talk is used by NLP experts and many positive thinkers as a way to improve people's lives. We all experience self-talk even if we don't realize we're doing it. Why not self-talk on purpose? Once we become aware of our internal dialog about money we can begin the journey to improve our business profitability. Tell yourself every single morning when you get out of bed "It is OK to make money and today I'm going to work on it". When you go to bed at night, remind yourself of all you've done that day to help you improve your financial picture and congratulate yourself. You'll sleep better too.
4. Get more informed about business finances. Have a working knowledge of how assets and liabilities affect your bottom line. Many financial companies have free literature that teaches how to read a balance sheet and a financial statement so that you understand more about your financial picture. You may also find this information online. In addition, you need a financial plan for your business just like you need a financial plan for yourself. This is the step by step action plan based on where you are today and where you want to be in the future. It's a roadmap for your personal financial success and your business profitability. If you've never done a financial plan you can get started with eFinPLAN, a financial planning software that is easy and inexpensive to do it at home. It will not only teach you how to think about money, but get you started on the path to financial freedom.
5. Analyze your product or service, your sales, and your expenses, then decide where you could improve. Take a look at your product. Is it one you believe in? Do you really feel good about what it can do for others? If not, you'll find it hard to sell so it might be time to look around for something else. If you do believe in your product or service, then it's time to look at your sales. How many prospects are you reaching per day? Is it enough? If you're uncertain about how to increase the number of prospects you reach or how to close them, you might consider getting some training. Find more information on how to start and grow a profitable women owned company at WomenCorp. Next, look at your expenses. How much does your product cost when you include the cost of your labor, office rent, utilities and travel? Is there a way you can change that picture to reduce expenses or increase your price to cover them?
6. Enjoy the results! When you focus on improving your profits you can't help but improve the long term potential for your business. And remember to congratulate yourself and acknowledge your accomplishment.
In Jack Canfield's "The Power of Focus" he shows how just by focusing on what you want and reviewing it regularly, you will begin to see it appear in your life.
Remember, the past doesn't matter. You can recover and be on your way to improved business profitability in a matter of months. But without action, nothing will happen.
So get started today. With the right mindset, you are half way there to having a successful woman owned company that everyone admires and will provide you a source of great income and immense satisfaction.
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