Pandemics inspire creativity. It’s no secret that new businesses, especially nonprofits and etsy stores, have been popping up left and right. Whether it’s because you lost your job due to COVID or you wanted to curb your boredom at home, starting a business is difficult work, so it’s important to use as many resources as possible. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
#1: Find a mentor
Mentors are the best people to bounce ideas off of and turn to for business advice. LinkedIn is the best way for you to connect with potential mentors. The best LinkedIn advice I’ve learned is to always add a note after you send a connection request. It feels more personal and they’ll be more likely approve your acceptance.
#2: Listen to a business podcast or read an entrepreneurial book
The FemExec podcast, hosted by yours truly, is all about amplifying the stories of female small business owners to encourage aspiring female business professionals. We invite women from all different industries to share how they got their small business off the ground. Some great books to read are also Good to Great by James Collins and How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie.
#3: Get a business certification
Hubspot and LinkedIn learning are great ways to increase your knowledge of the industry space you are in and give your business more credibility! There are many places to also get your company officially recognized as a woman-owned business, and, if it applies, a person of color-owned business.
#4: Source seed funding
People reward new small businesses, especially if they are innovative or have a specific niche in a major industry. If you are a college student, Dorm Room Fund is a great way to pitch your business to many investors. If you are a female and had a pre-existing business (pre-pandemic) that took a hit due to the pandemic, Luminary is also providing funding.
As a fellow female business owner, it’s been amazing to source out these opportunities and share with others in the same boat. Female business owners, be proud of what you’ve created amid one of the toughest times in the world. Use the resources and tips available around you. Our community is strong and powerful.