The answer is yes, with a but…
Here are 10 tips for all future entrepreneurs (especially females) out there.
🔎 Find your niche: I always thought that if people do not fully grasp what I am doing, then I am doing something right and different. It takes time for people / future clients to fully understand what you have created, and it’s ok. Sometimes your ‘elevator pitch’ might not be super clear and it is good practice to talk about it.
🤷♀️ Who cares about your background: if you are knowledgeable and passionate about what you are starting, what you have done before will have little importance. It might be your biggest advantage, as you will have a different approach than your competition (if you have any)
🙈 Do not get influenced: Stay on your path, you will meet a lot of people with a lot of opinions, but it is your business and you know what is best for it.
✅ Pass the first two years: They will fly by, you will use a lot of your old network, but then after 2 years you will probably have exhausted it all and will need a fresh and new network.
👥 Network, Network, Network: I have always done some new business on the side, even if I had a few great clients, it was key for me to always continue to develop new relationships and also talk to people and brands I cared about
🏄♀️ The 7 years mark: you will probably hit a bump on the road around this time, after doing very well, things will ‘magically’ slow down…it’s usually time to refresh your branding and ask yourself: is it still what you want to be doing? Are you still bringing something unique? Or have your competitors caught up with you
⏳ Don’t waste your time: I have (and sometimes still do) pushed brands who I think we could be doing a tremendous job for. Unfortunately, if they can’t see it or if it is not the right time, don’t waste it and focus on what flows. They might come back to you later when they are ready.
💡Collaborate with people who will both inspire and challenge you: Very few practitioners are willing to push themselves, those are the ones I want to work with.
💫 Come into the light: it took me a while to understand this, as I was happy ‘behind the scenes’ but it is paramount for you to have a voice and own it, so don’t be shy to step forward, be proud of your work and share your thoughts with the press.
🤝 Give back: it is always key for me to take some time and mentor new upcoming talent, it also enriches me tremendously and keeps me firmly on the ground.
It won’t be a smooth ride, but if you are fully invested in the journey, excited by the destination and up to creating something alternative, that’s all that matters.