Men and women face many issues when they start an entrepreneurial venture, but there are certain challenges that women go through that men may not even be aware of.
In the French language, an entrepreneur translates to “adventurer.” When a woman embarks on her adventure in the modern corporate world, the many challenges she may face can become overwhelming. Traditionally, many women are taught to raise children and care for her family, while men are taught to provide. Often, we forget that these tasks are not gendered specific. Both ends can contribute and live a happy, balanced life.
When a woman begins her journey in the corporate world, she may be held back by her many other responsibilities. Here are some challenges that a woman may face in the professional sphere.
Competition against men
Entrepreneurship has always been a field dominated by men, and while the landscape is changing, women still have a long way to go. For instance, India is known for its large number of startups. Last year, over one thousand new startups were added, yet only 11% of founders were women.
Limited funding
Funding can be crucial when you start a business. Many women in America still do not have assets or property in their name. They face a lot of difficulties when applying for loans because of a lack of security. This problem is found worldwide.
Additionally, a woman is usually paid less than her male counterpart. Why is that? Some believe that a man has a family to look after and should be compensated more. Even in the 21st century, this practice is quite prevalent.
Work-Life balance
Women worldwide are expected to be primarily responsible for running a house and taking care of the family. Owning and operating an enterprise means long hours, which causes a disruption in work-life balance.
Working mothers take care of their children, which takes up a lot of time and energy. This forces women to prioritize their family over their business. On the other hand, men have the opportunity to play a secondary role in domestic responsibilities. However, the situation seems to have taken a cultural shift, and now more men are seen stepping forward to contribute and play their part in the household.
Minimal support
When starting a career and finding your place in the business world, you need as much support as possible. Regrettably, in many cases, women find themselves on their own with little or no help to navigate through the many challenges they may face. As a result, it becomes tough to make their mark in an arena so dominated by males.
Lack of education
Sixty-eight percent of women from the world’s population are illiterate, as UNESCO’s education report stated. A female entrepreneur without formal education can end up struggling with many issues such as business development, currency matters, maintaining accounts, and even the day-to-day operations of running the business. Lack of skills, resources, and information can cause a business to struggle, and the chances of succeeding become almost impossible.
All in all
When it comes to running a business, there is nothing a woman cannot do that a man can. However, women have many additional responsibilities that may prevent them from prospering in the business world. Society has planted the seed in men’s minds that it is a man’s job to earn – and while men should also work hard, we must not allow them to dominate or make us feel inferior. All we ask for is equal rights in the corporate world and a fair game.
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