There is no one formula to the successful pursuit of entrepreneurship. But as much as triumphing in the world of business comes down to an unpredictable, alchemist mix of ambition, timing, innovation and an understanding of human nature, there is one element that can truly make all the difference: access.
It’s not just about gaining access to capital, the right mentors or the best advice. It's about access to opportunity.
Name an industry and it won't take long to find the gaps in terms of compensation, representation, perception and even with the best of intentions, in who is given consideration when it comes down to deciding what a strong leader looks like.
So how do you recognize a good idea and then find the confidence in yourself and the support system to make it happen? How do you weather mistakes and setbacks and come out the other side better for them? Once you do find that success, what can you do to create opportunity for others?
This column is about identifying opportunity, understanding what you have to offer and navigating the pitfalls and obstacles that will block your path, with advice from the people who have been there.
Ellevest founder and CEO Sallie Krawcheck talked with us about harnessing your power at the negotiating table.
Thirdlove co-founder Heidi Zak gave us her best tips for networking on your own terms.
Flywheel CEO Sarah Robb O’Hagan spoke about how she learned not to be afraid of taking risks. And director and first-time founder Alexandra Dean shared the incredible story of inventor and actress Hedy Lamarr and the biggest lesson she learned from Hedy’s life: “being yourself and doing what little you can to try and help the world is sometimes the way we make our biggest mark.”
