Build Like A Woman

“What if fear wasn’t a signal to stop, but a call to act?” Kathleen Griffith’s Build Like a Woman challenges women to embrace their unique strengths and turn obstacles into opportunities in the entrepreneurial world.

1. Recognize and Navigate Systemic Challenges

Women face unique barriers in the business world, from subtle biases to overt discrimination. These challenges can feel overwhelming, but they also offer opportunities for growth. By understanding the landscape, women can better prepare to overcome these obstacles.

Many women develop resilience and creativity through their experiences, which can become powerful tools in entrepreneurship. For example, women often bring fresh perspectives to problem-solving, which can lead to innovative solutions. Recognizing these strengths is the first step toward building a successful business.

Fear often accompanies these challenges, but it doesn’t have to be paralyzing. Instead, it can be a motivator. Viewing fear as a signal to act rather than retreat can help women push through barriers and achieve their goals.

Examples

• A female entrepreneur used her experience with workplace bias to create a consulting firm that helps companies build inclusive cultures.
• Another woman turned her fear of public speaking into a strength by practicing relentlessly, eventually becoming a sought-after keynote speaker.
• A tech founder overcame rejection by refining her pitch, ultimately securing funding from investors who initially doubted her.

2. Transform Fear into Action

Fear is a natural part of stepping into the unknown, but it doesn’t have to hold you back. Instead, it can be a powerful catalyst for growth and action.

When fear arises, it’s often a sign that you’re pushing boundaries. Embracing this discomfort can lead to breakthroughs. For instance, many successful entrepreneurs credit their achievements to moments when they faced their fears head-on and took bold steps forward.

To transform fear into action, start by identifying what scares you. Then, break it down into manageable steps. This approach not only reduces the power of fear but also builds confidence as you tackle each step.

Examples

• A woman afraid of pitching her business idea practiced with friends until she felt confident enough to present to investors.
• Another entrepreneur used her fear of failure as motivation to over-prepare for a major presentation, which led to a lucrative partnership.
• A small business owner turned her fear of social media into a strength by taking a course and building a strong online presence.

3. Embrace Breakdowns as Opportunities

Breakdowns often feel like failures, but they can be the beginning of something better. When things fall apart, it’s an opportunity to reassess and rebuild stronger.

These moments force you to confront outdated beliefs and habits that may be holding you back. By letting go of what no longer serves you, you create space for new ideas and approaches.

The key is to view breakdowns as part of the process rather than the end of the road. With patience and persistence, you can turn setbacks into stepping stones.

Examples

• A business owner used the failure of her first venture to identify gaps in her knowledge, leading her to create a more successful second business.
• Another entrepreneur turned a failed product launch into a learning experience, using customer feedback to improve her offerings.
• A woman who lost her job during a company restructuring used the opportunity to start her own consulting firm.

4. Build a Brand That Connects Emotionally

A strong brand is more than a logo or tagline—it’s about creating an emotional connection with your audience. This connection turns customers into loyal fans.

Start by defining your brand’s mission. What do you stand for, and why does it matter? This clarity will guide your decisions and help you communicate your values effectively.

Next, focus on storytelling. Share your journey, challenges, and triumphs in a way that resonates with your audience. Authenticity is key to building trust and loyalty.

Examples

• A sustainable fashion brand shared its founder’s story of growing up in a textile-producing town, creating a personal connection with eco-conscious consumers.
• A tech startup used its mission of “making technology accessible to all” to attract a diverse customer base.
• A bakery owner built a loyal following by sharing behind-the-scenes stories of her family recipes and baking process.

5. Leverage Bold Sales Tactics

Boldness in sales can open doors that might otherwise remain closed. Don’t be afraid to make ambitious requests or propose unconventional ideas.

This approach requires creativity and confidence. By framing your requests as opportunities for collaboration, you increase the likelihood of a positive response.

Even when faced with rejection, persistence pays off. Each “no” brings you closer to a “yes,” and the experience helps you refine your approach.

Examples

• An entrepreneur secured a meeting with a high-profile investor by sending a personalized video pitch.
• A small business owner landed a major client by proposing a unique partnership that aligned with the client’s goals.
• A startup founder turned a rejection into a future opportunity by asking for feedback and staying in touch with the decision-maker.

6. Harness the Power of Resilience

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and keep moving forward. It’s a skill that can be developed and strengthened over time.

Start by reframing challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. This mindset shift makes it easier to stay motivated and focused.

Building a support network is also essential. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and can offer guidance and encouragement when times get tough.

Examples

• A woman who faced multiple rejections from investors eventually found success by refining her pitch and seeking advice from mentors.
• Another entrepreneur used her experience of being laid off to start a business that now employs dozens of people.
• A small business owner overcame a major financial setback by cutting costs and finding new revenue streams.

7. Collaborate for Success

Collaboration can amplify your efforts and help you achieve more than you could on your own. Look for opportunities to partner with others who share your values and goals.

These partnerships can take many forms, from co-marketing campaigns to joint ventures. The key is to find collaborators whose strengths complement your own.

By working together, you can reach new audiences, share resources, and achieve mutual success.

Examples

• Two women-owned businesses partnered to create a holiday gift bundle, boosting sales for both companies.
• A nonprofit and a for-profit company collaborated on a campaign that raised awareness and funds for a shared cause.
• A group of entrepreneurs formed a mastermind group to share ideas and support each other’s growth.

8. Focus on Continuous Learning

The business world is constantly changing, and staying ahead requires a commitment to learning. Seek out opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills.

This could mean taking courses, attending workshops, or simply staying curious and open to new ideas. The more you learn, the better equipped you’ll be to adapt and thrive.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help or seek mentorship. Learning from others’ experiences can save you time and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Examples

• A business owner took a marketing course to improve her online presence, leading to increased sales.
• An entrepreneur joined a professional association to network and learn from industry leaders.
• A woman sought mentorship from a successful business owner, gaining valuable insights and advice.

9. Celebrate Your Unique Strengths

Women bring unique perspectives and qualities to the business world. Embrace these strengths and use them to your advantage.

Qualities like empathy, inclusivity, and holistic thinking can set you apart and help you build a business that resonates with your audience.

By staying true to yourself and your values, you can create a business that not only succeeds but also makes a positive impact.

Examples

• A woman-owned company built a loyal customer base by prioritizing inclusivity in its marketing and product offerings.
• An entrepreneur used her empathetic leadership style to build a strong, motivated team.
• A business owner’s holistic approach to problem-solving helped her develop innovative solutions that set her apart from competitors.

Takeaways

1. Reframe fear as a motivator and take bold steps toward your goals.
2. Build a strong brand by connecting emotionally with your audience through storytelling and authenticity.
3. Embrace collaboration and continuous learning to grow your business and adapt to challenges.