Women as Business Mentors

At a recent women's networking event, I listened to a panel of women speak about how they started their businesses or launched their products in traditionally male dominated fields. It was a very inspiring discussion in which they described their challenges and successes.

But something really surprised me. All the women on the panel mentioned a man as their mentor! And most mentioned a man as their biggest supporter (husband, brother, partner). For some reason, I expected some of them, if not most of them, to name a woman.

It shouldn’t be surprising if I think back to my own career. In my mostly-male-at-the-top field of Accounting, I see it's true for me, too. Most of my mentors early on were men. Throughout my career, I had actively sought out the women above me, and especially those that were one level above, to model myself after and see how I can support them and their projects. I can now say I have a mix of people I admire, both men and women, who have been my mentors over the years, and I am so very grateful for their guidance, support and inspiration.

In small business and entrepreneurship, it may be hard to find a mentor if we work from home or our business is in a new field or category with not that many people.

 

So, where can you find a business mentor? Here are 5 places to look:

 

1) Small Business Organizations

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) works with SCORE, a non-profit that provides small business mentoring, events, and other resources. You can request to connect with someone who volunteers as a mentor.

 

2) Local Business Networking Groups

Events offered by your local chapters of networking groups like SCORE, BNI, NAWBO, Ellevate, and others are good places to meet women who have been in business longer than you or just starting out but are strong in an area you are trying to break into.

 

3) Other Business Owners

If someone in your area (or online) is already doing something similar to what you are doing, don’t be scared to reach out to them with a question.

 

4) Just Reach Out to Someone you Admire

 

This was an interesting one mentioned in the above discussion. Since some people may not be comfortable doing this, I would try to first connect with someone who is currently working with or has worked with this person before.

 

5) Let Them Find You

I don't mean sit there and do nothing! Talk about your business when you meet someone or even to an acquaintance or neighbor because they may be able to connect you with the right person.

 

Disclaimer: This information is provided for informational purposes only. I am NOT an attorney and I am NOT YOUR accountant. The information provided does NOT constitute legal, tax, accounting or any other type of professional advice. Please consult with your own attorney or tax professional. We assume no liability or responsibility for any errors or omissions or reliance on this information.