Here is a quiz for you:
When you meet someone new, what's the second question you are most likely to be asked. Answer: What do you do? It's not just to figure out whether you are a welder o a writer, but to determine how important you are.
For Women Entrepreneurs, that question can be though.
Unfortunately, people associate status with jobs, and having a fancy office and title makes us feel good. So, when you go from employee to Woman Entrepreneur, giving up the trappings of status and success can be tough. And it can be the little things that make you most uncomfortable; like not having to report to anyone and not having an office outside your home.
Even more frustrating is when you make a lot of money, but no one knows how well you are doing. After all, you still work from home and wear jeans.
In my case, I have given up a job where I finally had a nice office, assistant, and an expense account, I didn't miss any of it (maybe the expense account); but because early on I made sure that I set up myself to feel good about being self-employed.
These are few things I did and do, and you can as well, to feel good about your entrepreneurial status:
- Business cards are a must! (I still run into Women Entrepreneurs that don't have business cards) In my opinion they are a must have!
- A telephone line just for business, especially if you have kids
- Name of your company. It will automatically add credibility to your business and it will make your feel better
- Give yourself a title. Some people dream with being a manager, director, president, etc. If you own your company, you can be whatever you want to be.
- Get dressed every day. Put your sweat pants away. I know they are comfortable, but trust me it does make a difference in your state of mind what you are wearing.
- Set up an office. Even if it is just a desk, designate a place for your business.
- Get your own domain name for email. What do you think it sounds more professional: entrepreneurwomencoaching@gmail.com or carmen.shearer@entrepreneur-women-coaching.com ?
Because little things matter, make sure you set up yourself for success, with the right environment, disposition and attitude.
Carmen Shearer | Founder and CEO | Entrepreneur Women Coaching and Training , LLC
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