Business coaches offer top tips to empower women entrepreneurs
ActionCOACH Ingite will also host a free webinar for women in business later in August.
TO celebrate Women’s Month, two award-winning business coaches, Deborah Coskey and Natasha Swartz from ActionCOACH Ignite, share their top seven tips to help empower other women in business.
Inner belief:
Be your own biggest supporter.
“While the doubts will always creep in, it’s important to dig deep to find your inner belief and then remind yourself of that regularly. Entrepreneurship is something anyone can do and entails a multitude of skills that anyone can learn. You are good enough,” said Coskey.
Vision:
The duo said there will be setbacks and challenges but there will also be an equal amount of opportunity and a fair share of fantastic moments.
“The vision you have for your business, how it can serve the world and, most importantly, how it can drive your dreams and goals is critical in pulling you through the lows. Ride the rollercoaster knowing why you’re doing this and what you’re chasing,” said Swartz.
Lean on your inner circle:
Swartz encouraged women in business to ask themselves who has their back and then to physically write down the people who are in their inner circle, from a romantic partner and parents to friends and suppliers.
“When you actually see it written down, you’re more inclined to believe it. Lean on that inner circle. You’ll face times when you’re going to need their support and guidance,” she said.
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Learn to say ‘no’:
As an entrepreneur, you are the most important person in your business.
“Every time you say ‘yes’ to something or someone, you’re effectively saying ‘no’ to something or someone else. Know your priorities,” said Coskey.
Recharge:
Swartz urged women not to forget that while they are giving their all to their business, family and community, they are also an integral part of that web.
“Take a minimum of one hour per week that is purely yours. Make time to recharge your batteries and prioritise it weekly,” she said.
Ask for help:
Both business coaches agreed that if help is needed, there is no harm in asking.
“People are often surprisingly open and willing to assist,” the said.
Banish guilt:
“When you’re at work, you feel guilty for neglecting your family and when you’re at home you feel guilty about not doing enough in the business. The guilt causes wheel-spins and even paralysis. Decide upfront how much time can be dedicated to what,” said Coskey.
They urged businesswomen to choose how many hours in a day they are able to dedicate to each sphere in their life and this will allow them to feel 100 per cent present during each instance.
ActionCOACH South Africa will also host a free webinar for women in business on Friday, 28 August from 9am to 11am. To book your space, email Chenal at adminkloof@actioncoach.com.
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