To say we’ve come a long way in the workplace with regards to female opportunity would be an understatement. Women are becoming a force in the working environment and with many being business owners or managers, it’s a huge step up towards gender equality.
As many are aware, the gender pay gap still exists, however, for many women, their talents are taking them beyond this as they begin to leave their footprint in the business world. For any aspiring businesswomen, young or old, the opportunities have never been greater.
In the past, women have always been second-best to males in the workplace. This includes all areas such as managerial roles to ‘assistant’ type roles. For America in particular, it wasn’t until Barak Obama signed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Play Act that saw laws restored for the equal pay for women, minorities and other marginalised groups. Produced in 2009, almost 10 years later and there has been a huge shift. Women are finally breaking through the ex-tradition of always being ‘second-best’ to males, and as figures showed in 2013, the number of female CEOs of ‘Fortune 500’ companies has increased by 65%.
Many successful female entrepreneurs have become icons for other young women who are at the stage of attending university or finishing their GCSE’s/A Levels. J. K. Rowling, Victoria Beckham and Oprah Winfrey are some of the most powerful businesswomen in the world and are great role models for millennials. However, none of them had it easy when breaking through, but due to them persevering and becoming who they are today, it has helped young women pursue their dreams of being a success.
The team at Pytronot have put together their top tips for ensuring you are always on your A-game.
For young aspiring entrepreneurs, starting in the world of business can be frightening. Early on, it’s important to get yourself out there, try new things and gain as much experience as possible.
Ask the captain
When attending work experiences or internships, it might be worth heading straight to the managers or CEO’s office; by doing this you will have the opportunity to ask them any question you like. Yes, it can be incredibly scary asking the head of the company something, but it shows intent and willingness to speak to them. Striking a conversation lets them know you’re in the office and ready to work. Especially in large businesses, most managers won’t know you’re there for work experience, so introduce yourself, create a positive relationship and good impression early on.
Say “yes”
Opportunities will arrive within a workplace where people may not be interested. Be the opposite; take every opportunity you can get your hands on. Not only does it show you’re willing; you can learn huge amounts about the business and other people. It will also prepare you for future business trips or opportunities where you won’t have a choice in going. So buck up the confidence, and put yourself out there!
“Hard work, works.” – Denzel Washington
For the most successful businesswomen, their grit and determination has gotten them to where they are today. This is one of the main reasons they’ve been able to stay on top of their game. Everyone will go through stages where things aren’t going to plan, but it’s how you deal with these issues that’ll set you apart. The women mentioned above haven’t let any setbacks hinder their chances at success, and neither should you.
Whoever your competitors are, whether in a business or internship for your dream job, work harder. Dedicate time into your craft, and soon the hard work will show. Small changes like arriving early to work or staying after work are ways to get your mind in the right frame for standing out. Sometimes, pleasure needs to be put aside, which is exactly what every successful businessman or woman has done.
Set yourself goals
Whether it be short-term, long-term, daily, monthly, yearly – it doesn’t matter; writing down goals is a great way to measure personal success. As a manager or CEO of a business, having targets to reach not only keeps you on track, but can show that you are heading in the right direction.
Never be content
Comfort is the greatest enemy to progress, so when you’re in a comfortable situation, push through it. Whilst you’re happy and content, others are catching up. Always work on ways to get ahead of competitors, and share this message with employees. A business with motivated employees reaps success. The most successful companies are always thinking of new ways to improve and develop their brand.
Networking
As a future business owner, networking is crucial. Finding out information about other companies that you might want to work with in the future will give you a step ahead against competitors. Face-to-face networking events are a great way to not only advertise your services, but also learn about others. These connections could come in handy in the future; so make sure you keep in contact with people who you find interesting.
Fall forward
As previously highlighted, some of the most successful businessmen and women have had huge setbacks in their careers. It’s inevitable that this will happen to you, but it’s your reaction that matters the most. Don’t let any setbacks stop you from continuing to push the business forward. The term ‘fall forward’ comes from having a failure but using it to your advantage. Learn from any mistakes and ensure next time you’re prepared for everything.
