Guest Opinion: Are women-owned businesses holding themselves back?
BY KATHLEEN RIESSEN | Partner, Measured Intentions
Now, tell me: Do I need to choose to be defined as a business owner or as a female business owner?
I am a woman, but I’ve never believed I deserve special treatment or must limit myself to a certain “box” because I am female. When we filed the paperwork for each of our businesses, I must have skipped the box that said: “ALERT!!! Are you female? If so, you are special!” My parents will tell you I only listened half of the time, so I must have ignored their lecture about how I have limited abilities because I am a female. (Mom and Dad, please note the sarcasm.)
My blatant disregard for my gender has left me with the thought that I am just as good as any male, and that what really matters in business is how you interact with others and deliver results.
Numerous times over the years, I have been offered grant applications, funding opportunities, special Small Business Administration programs, invitations to women-led associations and more, simply because of my gender. My male counterparts are not offered these opportunities.
In spite of of these “extras,” Iowa ranks 51st in the nation for the economic clout of women business owners, according to the 2015 American Express OPEN report. Anecdotally, I can think of many successful Iowa-based businesses led by women, which made me pause and think: Iowa, why are we doing so poorly?
After reviewing the facts and data, the challenge appears to be that female-owned businesses, on average, are smaller businesses with less revenue ($250,000 to $499,999) and fewer employees (average of five to nine employees). In actuality, the number of Iowa women-owned businesses grew between 1997 and 2014 by 22.7 percent to a total of 70,600.
I believe our lack of advancement is mostly caused by ourselves. We could debate all day about whether a glass ceiling exists, but, as a female population, it seems to me that we impose our own glass ceiling miles below the placement of the real “glass ceiling.” As mothers, we lower that glass ceiling even more.
Think about it. If you grow your business, what will happen?
Myth No. 1: I will have to work more and will have less time to spend with my family.
Truth: I will need to work smarter.
Myth No. 2: I don’t know how to grow, and it will cost money to help my business grow.
Truth: There are classes, associations and consultants to help you. Yes, it will cost money, but this is an investment in both you and your company’s future.
Myth No. 3: Our clients can’t afford our true value.
Truth: What you earn is perceived to be what you are worth. If you believe you are worth more and have the experience to back it up, then charge what you are worth.
Businesswomen, women leaders and women aspiring to be leaders: my message to you is to kick the crap out of that glass ceiling. Build a caring and supportive network of both males and females to remind you of your goals, vision and worth. Remind them to tell you when to hold back and when to smash through the glass. If you need lessons on how to properly kick, call me and I’ll be happy to show you!
Kathleen Riessen, in addition to her business ventures, is active with the American Advertising Federation, where she has served in roles on the local, district and national levels. She was named Silver Medalist by the American Advertising Federation in 2015, President of the Year in 2010, Ad Pro of the Year in 2009, and Rookie of the Year in 2007. She also holds a certified public accountant license, although she begs you not to ask her anything about taxes. Riessen also mentors college students and young professionals.
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Riessen can be reached at 515-868-0240 or by email.
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