48 answers
Khin Yadanar
Student
Myawaddy, Kayin State
1
Question
Updated
1973 views
What is the best advice for a beginner business woman.
I am an educational student. But I interested about business for my future. So, I want some best advice for me to success. #business #entrepreneur #business-management #management
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48 answers
John Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1013
Answers
California, CA
Updated
John’s Answer
Khin some characteristics of successful women in business are natural, but some require hard work and dedication in order to learn fully. In order to become a truly successful business leader it is important to keep in mind that achieving success is not going to be easy but in the end it will be worth it. Here are some of the steps that savvy business leaders say you should follow in order to be successful.
1. FOCOUS ON YOUR PASSION – It is always important to remember that in order to be successful you have to love what you are doing. Find a way to turn your passion into a useful tool that can help your work stand out and set you apart from others in your field. If you admire someone in your field reach out to them and see if they can help you learn the ropes. Learn how their passion has progressed their career and see how it can progress yours as well. Believe in your own ideas, if you can’t sell them to your colleagues, your employer won’t want them either. So if you have an idea burning in your belly sell it with conviction and show others how passionate you are about it.
2. CREAT A BUSINESS PLAN – It is always a good idea to write down your goals in order to make yourself more accountable for them. Once you write them down, come up with steps that you are going to take in order to achieve them. Of course your plans may change but it is important to have a starting point so that you can visualize the path that you are going to take. Make sure to set both short and long -term goals. A goal such as attending a network event can seem simple and short but it will set you up for success when reaching some of your long-term goals.
3. PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE – You need to understand that you don’t start at the top; you have to work your way there. Approach each job and task you have as a learning opportunity and make sure you get the most out of it. Understand that things take time and take that time to learn and grow so when your time comes you are fully prepared to be successful. If you want to succeed it’s important to look into the company and understand everyone’s roles. Being self-sufficient is a great quality but if you know and value your team then when you climb the ladder you’ll have a greater appreciation for those on the office floor.
4. BE WILLING TO TAKE RISKS – Be bold, take some risks that you might not normally take. If you know what you want, take the leap and follow your passion. If you are stuck in a dead-end job and are not following what you truly want to do, find a new job. Being successful means you will have to make some hard choices and make some bold moves in order to really set yourself apart. The risk is normally worth the reward. Getting too attached to your workplace can hold you back from other opportunities, they may be the best people you’ve ever worked with, and if that’s true, you can still meet up outside of work.
5. STAY THE COURSE – Surround yourself with a group of positive people with positive thoughts. Things are not always going to be easy but try taking different approaches when it comes to success. Of course with anything you are going to run into failure, but you need to stick with it and understand that the successes are going to be worth it. Sometimes you need to put your foot down and say no. Unfortunately, you will be taken for granted if people think you won’t stand up for yourself, don’t go overboard but be aware that if you think you’re being treated unfairly, you should stand up and say so.
Being a successful business woman means you have to constantly push yourself beyond your comfort zone Khin, take risks and be fearless in pursuit of your goals. Each individual success will increase your confidence and encourage you to strive for more. Be strong, confident and brave and you will soon reap the rewards.
Hope this was Helpful Khin Yadanar
Know your worth and demand what you deserve. Nobody else will speak for you, so be confident and know that the language of business is sometimes tough!
Build relationships. Being friendly and cheerful towards the people you’ve worked with may come in handy one day. Who knows when you might need to ask one of them for a favour or rely on a connection you’ve made? If they’re already friendly towards you then they’ll be more likely to help you out.
Study the people around you. Seeing how your colleagues do things will help you learn new approaches, and widen your perspective of how things are done in the office.
Don’t chase money. In your early years, chasing money might land you in the wrong career in the long run. It’s better to work your way up and have an end goal in sight, know that you might not be earning big money when you’re young, but the work will be worth it!
Don’t expect to be praised. As long as you know your own worth you’ll be okay. In the corporate environment, nobody is going to hold your hand or praise you for all the little things you do. Knowing your worth is crucial to being confident and independent in the workplace.
1. FOCOUS ON YOUR PASSION – It is always important to remember that in order to be successful you have to love what you are doing. Find a way to turn your passion into a useful tool that can help your work stand out and set you apart from others in your field. If you admire someone in your field reach out to them and see if they can help you learn the ropes. Learn how their passion has progressed their career and see how it can progress yours as well. Believe in your own ideas, if you can’t sell them to your colleagues, your employer won’t want them either. So if you have an idea burning in your belly sell it with conviction and show others how passionate you are about it.
2. CREAT A BUSINESS PLAN – It is always a good idea to write down your goals in order to make yourself more accountable for them. Once you write them down, come up with steps that you are going to take in order to achieve them. Of course your plans may change but it is important to have a starting point so that you can visualize the path that you are going to take. Make sure to set both short and long -term goals. A goal such as attending a network event can seem simple and short but it will set you up for success when reaching some of your long-term goals.
3. PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE – You need to understand that you don’t start at the top; you have to work your way there. Approach each job and task you have as a learning opportunity and make sure you get the most out of it. Understand that things take time and take that time to learn and grow so when your time comes you are fully prepared to be successful. If you want to succeed it’s important to look into the company and understand everyone’s roles. Being self-sufficient is a great quality but if you know and value your team then when you climb the ladder you’ll have a greater appreciation for those on the office floor.
4. BE WILLING TO TAKE RISKS – Be bold, take some risks that you might not normally take. If you know what you want, take the leap and follow your passion. If you are stuck in a dead-end job and are not following what you truly want to do, find a new job. Being successful means you will have to make some hard choices and make some bold moves in order to really set yourself apart. The risk is normally worth the reward. Getting too attached to your workplace can hold you back from other opportunities, they may be the best people you’ve ever worked with, and if that’s true, you can still meet up outside of work.
5. STAY THE COURSE – Surround yourself with a group of positive people with positive thoughts. Things are not always going to be easy but try taking different approaches when it comes to success. Of course with anything you are going to run into failure, but you need to stick with it and understand that the successes are going to be worth it. Sometimes you need to put your foot down and say no. Unfortunately, you will be taken for granted if people think you won’t stand up for yourself, don’t go overboard but be aware that if you think you’re being treated unfairly, you should stand up and say so.
Being a successful business woman means you have to constantly push yourself beyond your comfort zone Khin, take risks and be fearless in pursuit of your goals. Each individual success will increase your confidence and encourage you to strive for more. Be strong, confident and brave and you will soon reap the rewards.
Hope this was Helpful Khin Yadanar
John recommends the following next steps:
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Samuel
John, thank you!
Paul
Useful response
Malini Rao
You Welcome Malini. Believe you can and you’re halfway there.
John Frick
Thank You Valerie. “Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for a kindness.” – Seneca
John Frick
Thank You Laura. “Even if you just change one life, you’ve changed the world forever.” – Mike Satterfield
John Frick
Good advice!
Kris Lee
Thank You Kris. Alone, we can do so little; together we can do so much.
John Frick
Thank You Marla. “Our generation has the ability and the responsibility to make our ever-more connected world a more hopeful, stable and peaceful place.” — Natalie Portman
John Frick
Thank You Anne. “What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.” – Albert Pike
John Frick
Thank You Monika. “Volunteers are the only human beings on the face of the earth who reflect this nation’s compassion, unselfish caring, patience, and just plain loving one another.” – Erma Bombeck
John Frick
Focus on the passion and have a plan is very important as mentioned above
GANGA SIVARAMASUBRAMANIAN
Than You Ganga. Alone, we can do so little; together we can do so much.
John Frick
Thank You Danyel. “We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men.” – Herman Melville
John Frick
Great advice!
Emily Street
Amanda Taylor
Technical writer and project manager
2
Answers
Roseville, MN
Updated
Amanda’s Answer
Look for female role models in the field you're interested in and try to learn more about their career path. There can be different challenges for women in various industries so learning more about what those challenges are can prepare you to handle them. If you are interested in any kind of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields, check out the Society for Women Engineers. Even if you don't join, they post really valuable resources that can help you learn more. Good luck!
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Samuel
Thank you, Amanda
Khin Yadanar
Good response
Malini Rao
great answer and STEM is a great place for women
Adele Suttle
Kaitlyn Keeler
Finance Intern & Student
6
Answers
Bolton, Connecticut
Updated
Kaitlyn’s Answer
Hi there! This is my personal advice from my experiences, take it with a grain of salt as it is simply that! As a woman pursuing finance, specifically investment banking, I am typically outnumbered by men. Although the numbers are improving, the percentage of women in wealth management and investment banking are largely disproportionate to the number of women qualified for these jobs. Some simple things I've learned in school and in work have helped me to overcome barriers and challenges I've faced as a women in a predominantly male field include....
-Educating yourself as much as possible - Read, read, read! This is the number one thing you can do, in my opinion. People may underestimate you or they may not. However, if you are educated, creative, and intellectually curious, you will be able to quickly prove your worth to anyone who may doubt you. You can always improve yourself by being open to continued learning. Read books, sign up for the Wall Street Journal and read the headlines each day, watch the market and make observations, the possibilities are endless.
-Do not allow yourself to be soft-spoken or people will speak over you - Leaving high school, I was terrified of public speaking and hated giving speeches, presentations, reports, all of it. Do yourself a favor and do anything you can to get more comfortable with it now, in business you WILL be presenting constantly. I am still working strategically to improve my professional communication abilities through webinars, development sessions, and groups such as Toastmasters. Even if this doesn't come naturally to you, you can absolutely develop this skill set. If you allow yourself to be spoken over, people will inadvertently do so. Be sure of yourself and confident and stand your ground when necessary!
-Pursue every possible opportunity you can to improve yourself both personally and professionally! Any online courses, certifications, programs, etc, that are offered to you, take advantage of them! No skill is a bad skill and you never know what small skill or detail might differentiate you to an employer. Play upon your unique skills and experiences and use them to your advantage, whatever they may be!
-Educating yourself as much as possible - Read, read, read! This is the number one thing you can do, in my opinion. People may underestimate you or they may not. However, if you are educated, creative, and intellectually curious, you will be able to quickly prove your worth to anyone who may doubt you. You can always improve yourself by being open to continued learning. Read books, sign up for the Wall Street Journal and read the headlines each day, watch the market and make observations, the possibilities are endless.
-Do not allow yourself to be soft-spoken or people will speak over you - Leaving high school, I was terrified of public speaking and hated giving speeches, presentations, reports, all of it. Do yourself a favor and do anything you can to get more comfortable with it now, in business you WILL be presenting constantly. I am still working strategically to improve my professional communication abilities through webinars, development sessions, and groups such as Toastmasters. Even if this doesn't come naturally to you, you can absolutely develop this skill set. If you allow yourself to be spoken over, people will inadvertently do so. Be sure of yourself and confident and stand your ground when necessary!
-Pursue every possible opportunity you can to improve yourself both personally and professionally! Any online courses, certifications, programs, etc, that are offered to you, take advantage of them! No skill is a bad skill and you never know what small skill or detail might differentiate you to an employer. Play upon your unique skills and experiences and use them to your advantage, whatever they may be!
Linda Asubonteng
Data Governance
2
Answers
Dublin, California
Updated
Linda’s Answer
I am so glad to hear you want to be an entrepreneurial woman. There are endless opportunities available to help you succeed, but you have to do your homework well before venturing into it.
First, you need to decide which area you want to focus. It could be based on several reasons, for example, either something you have a passion or a desire to impact society. Whatever the reason, you need your vision and mission. These will drive and shape the success of your business.
When you know what you desire to do and the industry, it very important to learn and study for it. Learning does not necessarily have to be formal education but on-job training, mentorship, webinars, conferences, etc. this will enable you to learn more about required technologies, certification, players in the market (Suppliers, consumers, distribution channels, etc.).
Financing is also essential. A lot of the states and cities have funding for small businesses, and you can know more but joining small business groups. You will have to understand how to manage your finances and operation of small business. Take management courses while in school to learn basic financial management.
I hope this helps and i wish you the best of luck.
First, you need to decide which area you want to focus. It could be based on several reasons, for example, either something you have a passion or a desire to impact society. Whatever the reason, you need your vision and mission. These will drive and shape the success of your business.
When you know what you desire to do and the industry, it very important to learn and study for it. Learning does not necessarily have to be formal education but on-job training, mentorship, webinars, conferences, etc. this will enable you to learn more about required technologies, certification, players in the market (Suppliers, consumers, distribution channels, etc.).
Financing is also essential. A lot of the states and cities have funding for small businesses, and you can know more but joining small business groups. You will have to understand how to manage your finances and operation of small business. Take management courses while in school to learn basic financial management.
I hope this helps and i wish you the best of luck.
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Samuel
Thank you for the advice.
Paul
Focus with purpose is the key!
Lisa Woodward Clark
Tammy Juve
Project Coordinator
6
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Tammy’s Answer
Look for someone that can mentor you or someone that is doing what you want to do and network with them.
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Paul
Jennifer Dodd
Finance
2
Answers
Weatherford, Texas
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
My answer is centered around working for a very large medical device company which is a male dominated industry. I have an accounting background and work in the finance team.
As a woman in this industry, I found that you have to be confident in your abilities. Take the seat at the table and speak up. Being surrounded by various types of people all with engineering backgrounds can be intimidating. Ask questions, because I can guarantee you aren't the only one interested in the answer. Learn as much as you can, never stop learning. Find people around you that can and will speak on your behalf when you aren't in the room. Remember, you have information they need, therefore your voice and opinion matters.
I have been a member of the Toastmasters International organization for a number of years. This organization has helped me find my voice with better communication skills and has taught me many different leadership skills to help me navigate through this industry. I especially like that I now have the ability to lead without having the "authority" of a managerial role.
Most importantly, look and ask for roles within the organization where you can learn a new skill. Many managers will allow you try new experiences, and sometimes even fail, to help you gain the experience in a safe environment. Be willing and open to new experiences.
Good luck to you in your future endeavors and I hope my reply as inspired you to reach for the stars!
As a woman in this industry, I found that you have to be confident in your abilities. Take the seat at the table and speak up. Being surrounded by various types of people all with engineering backgrounds can be intimidating. Ask questions, because I can guarantee you aren't the only one interested in the answer. Learn as much as you can, never stop learning. Find people around you that can and will speak on your behalf when you aren't in the room. Remember, you have information they need, therefore your voice and opinion matters.
I have been a member of the Toastmasters International organization for a number of years. This organization has helped me find my voice with better communication skills and has taught me many different leadership skills to help me navigate through this industry. I especially like that I now have the ability to lead without having the "authority" of a managerial role.
Most importantly, look and ask for roles within the organization where you can learn a new skill. Many managers will allow you try new experiences, and sometimes even fail, to help you gain the experience in a safe environment. Be willing and open to new experiences.
Good luck to you in your future endeavors and I hope my reply as inspired you to reach for the stars!
Kimberly Williams
Sales
1
Answer
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
Hi Khin,
Some of the best advise I have received as a woman in business is the following: when you accept a role at any company in any field, make sure to know the exact salary you will be paid and get it in writing. This is often called an offer letter.
It is imperative for you to know how much money you will need to afford your living expenses. Then calculate the amount of money you desire for additional discretionary purchases, how much you need to save, etc. so you have an idea of the salary required for you to live comfortably.
If you are not happy with the first offer, be ready to ask for more money, benefits, or even more vacation time. As women, we can be afraid to speak up. We may also feel pressured to take the first offer presented to us without discussing all of our options. In fact, the person sitting on the other side of the table is expecting you to ask for more. A first offer is usually not the best he can do. This is your chance to negotiate.
Negotiating can be a very scary experience. There are many books and networking organizations that can help you practice how to negotiate in order to get what you want and deserve. I promise, you will be very happy with the outcome.
Best of luck to you.
Some of the best advise I have received as a woman in business is the following: when you accept a role at any company in any field, make sure to know the exact salary you will be paid and get it in writing. This is often called an offer letter.
It is imperative for you to know how much money you will need to afford your living expenses. Then calculate the amount of money you desire for additional discretionary purchases, how much you need to save, etc. so you have an idea of the salary required for you to live comfortably.
If you are not happy with the first offer, be ready to ask for more money, benefits, or even more vacation time. As women, we can be afraid to speak up. We may also feel pressured to take the first offer presented to us without discussing all of our options. In fact, the person sitting on the other side of the table is expecting you to ask for more. A first offer is usually not the best he can do. This is your chance to negotiate.
Negotiating can be a very scary experience. There are many books and networking organizations that can help you practice how to negotiate in order to get what you want and deserve. I promise, you will be very happy with the outcome.
Best of luck to you.
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Samuel
Heidi Fast
Logistics Coordinator
2
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Heidi’s Answer
Hi Khin,
There are many things you can do to prepare yourself for your career in business.
- Be confident in who you are and what you bring to the table.
- Know your worth, hold your head up high.
- Don't apologize for who you are.
- Don't be insecure (easier said than done!)
- Find a mentor or role model in your industry to talk to.
- Take some business classes, branch out and learn new things.
- Brush up on business skills, technology, software, excel, PowerPoint, etc.
- Don't be afraid to try new things, and if they don't work out, it's not failure - learning experiences are always good.
- Dress for the job that you want. Get a great fitting suit and heels, you'll need it!
- Always greet new people with a smile, look them in the eyes, introduce yourself (first and last name), and give a firm handshake.
- Remember that there is ALWAYS a solution, even if things seem impossible.
- Network and keep in touch with people. These people will likely be the ones recommending you for a job in the future.
- Be active on LinkedIn, expand and polish your profile, share articles.
Good luck and wishing you success in your future!
There are many things you can do to prepare yourself for your career in business.
- Be confident in who you are and what you bring to the table.
- Know your worth, hold your head up high.
- Don't apologize for who you are.
- Don't be insecure (easier said than done!)
- Find a mentor or role model in your industry to talk to.
- Take some business classes, branch out and learn new things.
- Brush up on business skills, technology, software, excel, PowerPoint, etc.
- Don't be afraid to try new things, and if they don't work out, it's not failure - learning experiences are always good.
- Dress for the job that you want. Get a great fitting suit and heels, you'll need it!
- Always greet new people with a smile, look them in the eyes, introduce yourself (first and last name), and give a firm handshake.
- Remember that there is ALWAYS a solution, even if things seem impossible.
- Network and keep in touch with people. These people will likely be the ones recommending you for a job in the future.
- Be active on LinkedIn, expand and polish your profile, share articles.
Good luck and wishing you success in your future!
Your advice was so helpful!
Samuel
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Paul
Great advice! :)
Emily Street
Amanda Arnold
HR Business Partner
4
Answers
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Amanda’s Answer
As a first step, I would learn more about the world of business. What areas are you most interested in? Are there functional areas would best leverage your skills? Where do you have passion that could be leveraged in business? Assessing your own motivations, skills, capabilities and knowledge will help you hone in and focus your efforts.
From there I would learn more about roles and careers in those areas through networking (via family and friends, LinkedIn or other social platforms, etc.). Talk to people in similar roles, careers, industries, etc. to understand multiple perspectives. Learn about how they got into their role, what skills are needed, how your current knowledge and skills would translate into business (sometimes just learning the business language can help you get past barriers) and what advice they would have for you entering this field. You can also learn through online research (i.e. look at posted job descriptions and requirements to gain insight into roles/responsibilities and position requirements), professional associations (likely online learning opportunities, more networking, understanding of the profession, etc.), business articles in your area of interest, etc.
Developing your action plan - take the information learned through your self exploration, networking and research to create a specific plan to move you toward your aspiration. Your plan may include more education, online training, research on companies and industries to target your search, applying and interviewing for relevant positions, identifying a contact in an organization that would help you network with managers or recruiting team members, etc.
Just know that it is a journey, and with the right information, focus and effort you can work toward a successful career in business. Best of luck!
From there I would learn more about roles and careers in those areas through networking (via family and friends, LinkedIn or other social platforms, etc.). Talk to people in similar roles, careers, industries, etc. to understand multiple perspectives. Learn about how they got into their role, what skills are needed, how your current knowledge and skills would translate into business (sometimes just learning the business language can help you get past barriers) and what advice they would have for you entering this field. You can also learn through online research (i.e. look at posted job descriptions and requirements to gain insight into roles/responsibilities and position requirements), professional associations (likely online learning opportunities, more networking, understanding of the profession, etc.), business articles in your area of interest, etc.
Developing your action plan - take the information learned through your self exploration, networking and research to create a specific plan to move you toward your aspiration. Your plan may include more education, online training, research on companies and industries to target your search, applying and interviewing for relevant positions, identifying a contact in an organization that would help you network with managers or recruiting team members, etc.
Just know that it is a journey, and with the right information, focus and effort you can work toward a successful career in business. Best of luck!
Leah Dhuria
Engineer
3
Answers
Plymouth, Minnesota
Updated
Leah’s Answer
There are so many podcasts out there for Women in Business - Harvard Business Review has a really good one that just generally gives advice about leadership qualities and how to overcome some of the obstacles you may hit in your business career.
In one of my leadership courses for my MBA, we read articles about what it takes to be a good leader. We then truncated all that advice into what we internally thought would make us a good leader. I strongly encourage you to perform this activity, and really internalize what it means to be a business leader, and then highlight the gaps you feel you have and the strengths you have and really focus on sustaining those strengths while building a skillset to overcome the gaps.
(Also, confidence, humility, vision - those are my top 3 for what it takes to be a good leader.)
In one of my leadership courses for my MBA, we read articles about what it takes to be a good leader. We then truncated all that advice into what we internally thought would make us a good leader. I strongly encourage you to perform this activity, and really internalize what it means to be a business leader, and then highlight the gaps you feel you have and the strengths you have and really focus on sustaining those strengths while building a skillset to overcome the gaps.
(Also, confidence, humility, vision - those are my top 3 for what it takes to be a good leader.)
Kris Lee
Strategic business communications
2
Answers
Singapore
Updated
Kris’s Answer
Hi Khin
Good question which i wished i had asked when i was younger. As in most of what we do:
1) Think about what business you want to go into - find a niche/differentiated product/service or what you think you can do better than others
2) Find inspiration and role models who inspire you - they can be in a totally different industry
3) Love your customers (sell them what they want and what they didn't know they want) and network
4)Take risks and dare to fail - let failure be a strength to help learn and succeed
5) Never give up but be prepared to change course
6) Stay entrepreneurial and innovative!
All the best and looking forward to seeing another young entrepreneur!
Good question which i wished i had asked when i was younger. As in most of what we do:
1) Think about what business you want to go into - find a niche/differentiated product/service or what you think you can do better than others
2) Find inspiration and role models who inspire you - they can be in a totally different industry
3) Love your customers (sell them what they want and what they didn't know they want) and network
4)Take risks and dare to fail - let failure be a strength to help learn and succeed
5) Never give up but be prepared to change course
6) Stay entrepreneurial and innovative!
All the best and looking forward to seeing another young entrepreneur!
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Samuel
Loved reading this, thanks!
Paul
Thank you.
Khin Yadanar
Jackie Cardine
IT Director
2
Answers
Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines
Updated
Jackie’s Answer
As a beginner, it would be good to assess what are your skills and competencies so that you know what you need to hone and get exposure from.
Find a mentor who can provide you guidance as you go along.
Personally, it helps me a lot to be organized - having a To Do list so I know what I need to accomplish, making sure I invest time in self-help activities like reading books and joining seminars or trainings that will target my key competencies that need improvement.
Assess yourself regularly to see what you have been able to achieve and plan out your next steps.
Jackie recommends the following next steps: