In my last post, I asked you to think about whether or not you had any of the attributes used to describe a successful entrepreneur.  Writing that post made me think about a study I read about several months ago.  Michelle DeKinder-Smith of Jane Out of the Box conducted a study by interviewing close to 1,000 women business owners over the course of 2 years.  In the interviews she asked them about their definitions of success, their daily struggles, and their dreams.  Her research led her to identify 5 unique types of female entrepreneurs.

Here is a very brief description of each of the 5 “Janes” according to the Jane Out of the Box blog:

Accidental Jane is a successful, confident business owner who never actually set out to start a business.  She may have decided to start her business due to frustration with her job or a layoff.

Go Jane Go is passionate about her work, and has no problem marketing and selling herself – so she has plenty of clients but, she’s struggling to keep up with demand.  She may be a classic overachiever, taking on volunteer opportunities as well.

Jane Dough is an entrepreneur who enjoys running her business and she makes good money.  She is comfortable and determined in buying and selling, which may be why she is 5 times more likely to hit the million dollar mark.

Merry Jane tends to have other pursuits in her life that are critical beyond building her business.  She’s using her company as a fantastic way to do something she loves in her own way and time.

Tenacity Jane has an undeniable passion for her business but, her business is not performing as well as she needs it to financially.  As a result, she’s working longer hours and making less money than she likes.

To find out more about each Jane and to take a FREE assessment to determine which type of entrepreneur you are, go to janeoutofthebox.com.  Which Jane are you?

Tags: 5 types of female entrepreneurs, jane, jane out of the box, running a business, self-assessment, women business owners, Women entrepreneurs

It’s Friday and I’m on my way to my family reunion in Ohio.  Every year my dad’s side of the family has a reunion and it always makes for a fun and  interesting event!  Both of my parents have passed so, it’s not quite the same attending these kinds of functions without them.  Nevertheless, I always enjoy seeing my relatives and this year my brother and I are traveling to the reunion together.   I’m sure the weekend will be better than anything you can find on Reality TV!!!

As I thought about my upcoming reunion, I naturally thought about the importance of having support systems in our business lives, as well as our personal lives.  We usually do a good job surrounding ourselves with supportive family and friends when it comes to our family lives. However, we tend to try and go it alone when it comes to our careers and business affairs.  Our careers are, in some cases, one of the few places we get to shine and have a little control.  We typically know what we are doing in that environment and we beam with pride when we do it well.  It’s especially gratifying when we can take all of the credit for our accomplishments.

No matter how competent you are and how many things you can juggle at once, starting a business is no time to try and go it alone.  I mentioned in my last post that you should seek out a mentor as you begin to get your business off the ground.  You should also be sure that you include your family, friends, and people in your community that wish you well.  Share your plans with them.  Get their input and feedback.  Allow them to just listen when you’re having tough times and make sure you celebrate with them when you reach milestones.

Everyone needs a cheerleader in this tough world of business ownership.  There will be long days and nights and a lot of lonely times as you pour your heart and soul into the business of your dreams.  Everyone else may not be as committed to your dream as you are but, those who love you will support you and cheer you on.  Don’t try to be the superwoman that you are and do this alone.  Be sure you include your parents, siblings, children, and best friends in your entrepreneurial endeavors.

You’ll be glad that you brought someone along for the ride, whether it’s a shoulder to lean on during the rough days or someone to share a toast with during the celebrations.  Having a support system in place will make the journey a little easier and reaching your goals a little sweeter.  Have a great weekend!

Tags: family, family reunion, friends, Starting a business, Startup Tips, support system, Women entrepreneurs