Ladies, Don’t Settle For Just An “Okay” Career

Ladies, Don’t Settle For an “Okay” Career As women, we often find ourselves unhappy in our jobs. Sometimes, it’s the desire to spend more time with the kids; other times, it’s the stress of earning less than our male contemporaries. The best piece of advice you can hear if you aren’t happy is to change your situation. Yes, it can be challenging, but it’s a hurdle that’s worth the effort and the ups and downs. Remember, you don’t have to settle --  you do have options. Here, we’ll look at three different paths you can take if you want to elevate yourself to reach better opportunities.   Starting your own business The number of women-owned businesses popping up in the US is growing at breakneck speed. In other words, there has never been a better time to be both a woman and an entrepreneur. Launching your own brand or service takes loads of determination and even more hard work, but you’re up for it. SquareUp suggests that your first step is to do some research. Take a look at the market to make sure there is enough demand to sustain a profit. Refine your business idea, and get to work studying your competitors. Once you identify weaknesses in their system, you can take measures to ensure your business stands out. All of this information should be part of your business plan, which should also include how you’ll pay for equipment and other overhead. Before you open the door, make sure you have everything in place to service your customers, collect payments, and manage quality control. If you’ve never run a business before and want to take it slow, consider starting an e-commerce website, which will allow you to take advantage of tools and services to streamline operations. Social media, for example, is great for inexpensive advertising while drop shipping partnerships allow you to sell unique products without maintaining an inventory. To help boost your success, make sure your website is set up with your customers in mind and is easily accessible via mobile devices.   Changing careers Changing careers altogether is another great option if you find yourself dissatisfied with your day-to-day existence. Dr. Randall J. Hansen explains to LiveCareer.com that this process begins by taking a close look at your likes and dislikes. It’s easier to note the things you hate about your job than it is to list what you love, but try to focus on the latter as much possible. This will give you considerably more direction when it’s time to decide where you want to be professionally. As you look over your likes list, try to figure out ways you can utilize your current skills as an asset to your desired industry or position. For example, if you enjoy music but can’t play an instrument, you might use your organizational talents and marketing skills as a band promoter. Even if something is outside of your comfort zone, remember that your skill set will bolster your ability to take on a new career. Of course, it may be necessary to obtain a new degree or seek certification for a new career. If a degree is what you want to pursue, take some time to research grants and scholarships for women that can help you cover some of your expenses.   Seeking a promotion  If you’re happy at your company and are a smart worker with a proclivity for problem-solving, have an unquestionable work ethic, and are known for your abilities and professionalism, it’s time to let your ambition shine through. There’s no shame in asking for a promotion or making yourself stand out when it’s time for your boss to assign new titles. While you may not always get the recognition or pay increases you deserve, don’t be discouraged. Keep your other options in mind and know that there are plenty of places where you will be appreciated and given a chance to excel. As a modern woman, you don’t have to wait for anyone to give you permission to go after professional success, and you don’t have to settle for just okay. You have tools at your disposal to make your own way, it’s up to you to use them.   A Post by  Gloria Martinez