Networking for Female Entrepreneurs: Boost Your Business and Your Health

Prior to starting my wellbeing coaching and sports massage therapy business, I spent over 15 years working in the corporate world of waste management (yeah I know it’s a pretty big change of direction!) Whilst networking wasn’t a massive part of my role there were conferences and events to attend where I would be expected to work a room, of predominantly men in grey suits, and try and talk enthusiastically about wheelie bins, refuse wagon payloads and anaerobic digestion.  

Unsurprisingly I absolutely hated these events! I found them extremely difficult and saw them as a necessary evil.  When I started my own business, I assumed networking would be the same, just with less bin chat!  I couldn’t have been more wrong.  

Why is networking is important for female entrepreneurs?

I found that networking is not just about exchanging business cards and talking shop, it’s about building genuine, long-term relationships and mutual support systems.

It opens up opportunities for collaboration and partnerships and the power of collective intelligence, experience, and contacts can really help to drive your business forward.

Running your own business can sometimes be a lonely place and connecting with other female entrepreneurs, creates a platform where you can share struggles and experiences and celebrate wins. 

I found that networking with like minded people and talking about a subject I was passionate about was a pleasure rather than a chore and it has massively helped me to grow my business.

Why is networking is good for your health?

Networking’s role in creating business opportunities and boosting career prospects is well known, but did you know that networking is actually good for your health too?

Research has shown that social interaction and networking can have a significant impact on various aspects of your physical and mental health.  If lockdown taught us anything, I think that was it!

Studies have revealed that people with strong social networks tend to live longer and are less likely to suffer from heart disease and high blood pressure. This could be a result of social support helping to manage stress levels, but also individuals within a network often influence each other's behaviours.  Whilst improving your health should always be a case of you vs you, there is nothing more motivating than belonging to a tribe.  New habits seem more achievable when you see people doing them every day and having like-minded people around you can encourage you to keep going and focus on your goals when you’re having a bad day.  Being part of a community and celebrating each other’s wins can also help to keep motivation high and networking provides a platform to share tips and advice on ways to reach your goals.  And let’s face it, when you’re in a group of people, nobody wants to be the first to give up on something.

Networking is important when it comes to improving your mental health too. As a solo female business owner you may experience high levels of stress and mental health challenges, which left unmanaged could lead to anxiety and depression. A strong support network can provide emotional support, somewhere to seek and share advice, and a safe space which can help to alleviate feelings of isolation. Networking also provides a place to share information, provide valuable insights and learn coping mechanisms based on best practice and the real-life experiences of others.

How to make the most of networking for your business and your health?

To harness the full benefits of networking, you should approach it strategically and mindfully. 

As a solo female entrepreneur time is precious so consider what you actually want to gain from networking.  Defining your objectives can help you choose the right events and networks and guide your conversations when you attend. Maybe it's learning more about your industry, finding potential collaborators or seeking support for certain aspects of your business.

Find a networking group that works for you, aligns with your business objectives and will impact your personal and professional growth and success.  While there are various networking groups available, an all-female network provides a unique environment that can be particularly advantageous for women entrepreneurs and professionals.  Long gone are the days of women competing to be the best; it is raising each other up and collaborating that gets results.

Focus on building meaningful relationships rather than just collecting contacts. Seek out individuals who inspire you, align with your values, and share your vision. Remember to be prepared to offer help and support as well as seek it but set and observe boundaries to avoid overwhelming yourself.

If you’re not confident walking into a room full of strangers, why not start by joining an online network.  In this digital age, networking isn't confined to conferences and business events. Online platforms allow you to engage in discussions, share insights, and build relationships with individuals globally.

Be you!  Authenticity is a real buzz word at the moment but being yourself is vital in networking. Be open about your experiences, challenges, and aspirations. Authentic conversations foster deeper connections and build trust, laying the foundation for lasting relationships.

In conclusion networking is an amazing tool that can help female entrepreneurs navigate the world of business and unlock a variety of opportunities. Simultaneously, it can contribute positively to your physical and mental health.  So, whilst running a business and managing your own health can sometimes be a balancing act, networking could offer something for both sides of the scale!

Need support improving your health whilst trying to run a business?

Hi, I’m Debbie, a wellbeing coach supporting female entrepreneurs to harness the power of small changes so that they can make a big difference to their health and their business, without adding to the overwhelm!

Do you want friendly no-nonsense help to avoid burnout, boost your energy, power up your productivity and be a bolder, more confident you?

Why not book a free 15 minute virtual coffee and let’s have a chat!

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