Why more women should take the leap to become the boss

Times are changing but the fact remains the number of women running a business is still lagging well behind that of men.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics women only make up a third of owner managers while less than 30% hold key managerial positions in a company.

Refresh Dental Spa owner Dr Kristina Cain who left the safety of being a paid employee seven years ago to start her own practice said she hopes she inspires others to take the plunge because women are natural leaders.

“A lot of the characteristics that make women good mothers translate to business and help them support and motivate their team,” Dr Cain said.

“We are nurturing, great at multi-tasking, empathetic and more inclined to think outside the box to find a solution to a problem,” she said.

“We also have an uncanny ability to build personal relationships and friendships which helps to open up many more doors and opportunities.”

“I was fortunate to have two amazing female bosses in my first professional job, which helped set the trajectory of my career.”

“They were inspirational because they were just two women with families working hard and running their own show which was quite unusual 21 years ago.”

“Some people think that women need to toughen up and be a bitch to be a boss, but nothing could be further from the truth.”

“Staff are at the coalface of a business and a good boss values those who are also invested in its success and in your vision for its future.”

“Running a business is hard work with challenges you can’t anticipate but with the right planning and support team behind you it is a journey well worth taking.”

Lessons learnt by a female boss

Be Brave: The belief in yourself and your abilities is key to your success, as while there will be plenty of highs there will also be challenging lows along the journey and you need to pick yourself up and move on.

Gather a support team: Finding the right people to guide you is essential particularly during the buying process. Use an accountant, solicitor and lender who you trust or has come personally recommended as they can stop you from making a costly mistake.

Have some capital: Have some money behind you before you take the plunge otherwise you are starting on the back foot with no safety net only debt.

Invest in training: Find yourself a business coach otherwise you are all alone and at risk of floundering, investing in someone who gets you and understands your end goal is invaluable. Also consider some management training, learn to use the Cloud or other accounting/business software.

Network: This is a skill that comes naturally to most women so use your circle of contacts to develop relationships that will help your business. If there’s an operator you admire reach out for advice, most are only too happy to help.

“Running a business is hands down the best self-development course you will ever take.”

“When I first started I had dreams of creating something beautiful and holistic for my clients, but quickly realised that doesn’t always pay.”

“By accepting feedback and constructive criticism I’ve learnt how develop a business model that covers the overheads whilst still creating the practice I’d dreamt of.”

“Women are now more prepared than ever to step out of their comfort zone so there’s never been a better time for them to take the leap and become their own boss.”

Dr Kristina Cain completed her studies at the University of Queensland and has over 20 years’ experience as a dental practitioner. She has worked in private practices around Australia and enjoys treating patients from all walks of life.