Three expert tips for women starting their own business

Have you ever dreamt of starting your own business? For most, it’s a daunting task. But just because it’s difficult doesn’t mean it’s impossible. You might just need a nudge in the right direction. With that in mind, we asked three successful Irish entrepreneurs (and nominees in this year’s Business of Beauty Awards) what advice they’d give to women starting out.

Jennifer Rock, founder of The Skin Nerd, was working in the skincare industry when she saw a gap in the market. She combined her love of skincare with her desire to create something useful for people, and her company was born. When asked what advice she’d give to women entering the business world, she said, “Dream it, plan it, fund it and execute it. Nobody is going to push you to do it, so you need to motivate yourself. In my opinion, it is best to not be motivated by money but by passion and an intrinsic drive. Figure out what isn’t being developed and set about creating it. Surround yourself with those who think the same way as you and with people who will challenge you to become a better leader.”

Anita Murray, owner of Pink Beauty Group, knows business inside-out. Not only did she grow up with two parents who are self-employed, she also runs a hugely successful consultancy company. She says, “If you are going into business just to pursue financial gain then rethink your expectations. Choose a career that you love and a job you would work for without any remuneration and you will never work a day in your life! Passion and heart is such an enormous attribute to one’s success. That one easy question you can ask yourself to determine if you’ve found your passion and if you are prepared to put in the necessary work to make it succeed ‘Would you do it for free?’ If the answer is yes, then do it!”

Sonia Deasy, co-founder of Pestle & Mortar, is an example of someone who saw an opportunity and grabbed it. “Whilst working alongside my husband in his portrait photography business, I noticed how dry and dull a lot of the subjects’ skin looked close-up. I was also travelling a lot at the time, and I was frustrated that there didn’t seem to be a simple and effective skincare range on the market. I had always harboured an interest in the natural skincare arena, and coming from six generations of Indian herbalists, the obvious solution for me was to research and develop my own products.” Sonia’s advice for women starting off in the industry is, “Define your end goal clearly. Be prepared to work hard, and enjoy it.” She also says, “Don’t wait for someone to bring you flowers. Plant your own flower bed.”

Sonia Deasy, Anita Murray, and Jennifer Rock are all nominated in this year’s IMAGE Business of Beauty Awards. Click here to vote and hit the button below to book your tickets – but act fast, they’re selling out fast!