Men are not the only ones who don’t like to ask for directions. Women business owners often also don’t want to admit what they don’t know, or aren’t confident in their ability to do. Yet there are many, many resources around the country to guide women through all kinds of opportunities and dilemmas. Here’s what’s out there for entrepreneurs

My guest on this episode of The Business Edge is Dr. Patricia Greene, Professor of Entrepreneurship at Babson College and academic director for Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses and 10,000 Women. She shares her vast knowledge about types of resources to start or grow your business: how to find them, how to evaluate them, and what to do with them once you have them.

Listen to this podcast and learn: The reasons for the surge of women entrepreneurs and some challenges;
The top 3 types of resources for business startups and then for business growth
Where to go for advice, what to do after you get advice, how to deal with conflicting advice
How do you decide on the best resources for you and your business and whether to pay or not
Why you must expand your understanding and utilization of resources: it’s ideas, people, opportunities.

The key take away: Don’t just sit there…do something! Successful business entrepreneurs are both intentional and action oriented! After you have received assistance and advice, develop an action plan with next steps, timelines and potential obstacles you need to overcome. Most importantly, FOLLOW THROUGH! Also find a mentor or coach or peer group for support, accountability as well as opportunities.