Women have come a long way since the early 1900s. Staying at home and raising a family has become a preference or an option, as opposed to the norm. Female entrepreneurs are rising up everywhere. The question is, how hard is it for a woman to compete in the male dominated corporate playing field?
Many studies have shown that men not only occupy most positions that are higher paying, but even the women who hold the same positions tend to earn less than there male counterparts. Are stereotypes holding women in lesser positions?
Discrimination is the dirty truth that lies under the rug in just about any business. Everyone has there own personal preferences, comfort zone, and subliminal bias. No matter what your qualifications are, when you are being interviewed for a job, you are being judged. That can be good or bad, but the fact of the matter is, hiring is a highly subjective process.
Some people would just rather have a man handling things. Women are known for their ability to manage multiple responsibilities, hold impeccably accurate memories, and (unfortunately) being emotional. There are those in positions of power who might feel that a woman might not be able to think as logically as a man. Not to mention the risk of a woman leaving the company to take care of family.
Of course it is harder for women. It is because of this that there are programs made especially for women to give them assistance in pursuing their goals and dreams. With challenges the way they are, and the risks of downsizing and increased company outsourcing, the best idea is to go into business for your self. Here are some organizations that can help:
-Office of Women’s Business Ownership
-Association of Women’s Business Centers
-National Women’s Business Council
-National Foundation of Women Business Owners
There are tons more groups that offer grants and scholarships geared for women, and it would take days to list them all. The truth is, although women have a bit of an uphill battle in the corporate world, we don’t have to do it alone.
As much as we would all like to believe that everyone has a fair chance, the truth is that no, we don’t. Black, Asian, gay/lesbian, Hispanic, or female, or White, not everyone starts out in the same place. Women have to make difficult choices between family only, career only, or career and family. Women have to compete against men for higher positions in a male dominated society.
In this day and time, women have the perfect opportunity to go into business for themselves. There is plenty of help and support available out there. With the right training, information, and support, any determined women can do it.
Managing your own business might not be for everyone. Some women understand what it takes to compete for the jobs that are already out there, and are willing to fight for them. Better still, there are many women who find just as much fulfillment in nurturing a family full time. No matter what your goals are, there will always be challenges. Use the challenges as fuel to make you stronger, and go after what you want.
The important thing is that you are happy and proud of what you are doing. Use your resources, do your best, and be consistent. You will find that your life will be very rewarding.
By Chesley Maldonado
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