Being a businesswoman isn’t easy, particularly in industries where women are historically underrepresented. Though there are unique challenges that come with being a woman in a male-dominated field, that doesn’t mean you should have any less of a chance of success than your male counterparts. There are a lot of things you can do to help give yourself a leg up, but many women don’t know where to look for guidance or what credentials will qualify them for higher-level work. Keep reading if you want to learn more about some essential resources for women in the business world.
What resources can help women in the business world?
Having mentors and role models who can guide you through the early stages of your career can be invaluable. It’s a good idea to look for women who have succeeded in your field. Courtney Sarofim is a perfect example of a woman who has gone on to make a name for herself. She recognized the potential in designer Adam Lippes after her sister-in-law introduced the pair. Impressed by his work and his pedigree as a former designer for Ralph Lauren and Oscar de la Renta in New York, she decided to hold a trunk show and invest in the brand. The lesson here is that you should always be prepared to seize opportunities, even if you aren’t expecting them.
You should also look into pursuing certifications and additional credentials that can help you move up the ladder. Look for educational opportunities like taking these PMP classes in Houston if you want to give yourself real skills that will impress future employers. “Project management professional” is an internationally recognized designation from the Project Management Institute that teaches skills like planning, executing, monitoring, and closing a project.
There are also a number of groups and organizations dedicated to helping women in business, which can teach you a great deal while also connecting you with a network of fellow professionals you may be able to work with in the future. Some require a membership fee while others are more informal. You should also stay up to date on networking events in your area that may help you meet future collaborators or clients.
What else can women in business do?
Though it can be difficult, advocating for yourself in the office is essential if you want to get ahead. One way this can manifest is in failure to pursue appropriate compensation. Studies show that women are more hesitant to ask for raises, which can play a big part in the lifetime earnings gap between men and women in the United States. Take the time to research the median salary for others with your job title. If you notice that your salary is low in comparison, put together some information to demonstrate your value to the company and ask for what you feel you’re worth.
It’s also worth considering if there are any ways you can help other women gain success in your industry. You can start a mentorship program yourself or reach out to schools in your area to see if you can offer opportunities to women interested in pursuing careers similar to yours. One of the best ways to help women become more broadly successful in the business world is to offer them material help starting their professional careers.
One mistake many women make is thinking that they need to succeed on their own. Don’t be afraid to look for mentors or role models who can help you get closer to your dream job. You should also always be on the lookout for educational opportunities that could give you important and useful skills. When you have a role at a company you want to work at, advocate for yourself to ensure you receive the salary you deserve and appropriate advancement. It can be frustrating to have to put so much work into overcoming barriers to success, but it’s well worth it to get where you want to be in the business world.
