The working world is filled with brilliant women. It’s the kind of place all new female entrepreneurs can really get ahead, thanks to the foundation the previous generation has laid for us. What was once seen as a ‘man’s world’ is now one of the most diverse industries in the world, and there’s no holding you back when you’ve got a business dream in mind!

Of course, that doesn't mean the working world is the perfect place, however. There are still everyday issues that can prevent female entrepreneurs from feeling successful, supported, and like they have the same chance as everyone else.

Aside from tackling the issue at the root, this is the kind of problem that’s best tackled by a support network that will propel you forward. The kind of network that will provide the kind of insight and advice you can rely on during challenging times.

To build a network like that, you’re going to have to put some serious effort into finding the best people for the job! That won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. Remember, networking is an ongoing process that you’ll never quite be done with, but what you put in now will set the tone for your career from this point forward.

As such, here are the best ways to build a supportive network as a female entrepreneur. Make sure you’re following tips like those below when you really need a few good heads to rely on!

Join Female Focused Online Groups

You don’t have to network in person 24/7. You can do so online as well, and even in your own time. You don’t have to wait for an event to occur and only put your best pitching face on then. Join a female-focused entrepreneurial group online, and get a bit more convenience out of your networking efforts.

Remember, women in business are likely to be busier than anyone else! Join groups that understand this, and put your needs as a woman in the industry first. Not only will you feel a lot more leeway within your interactions, but you’ll meet other women who know what it’s like to walk in your shoes.

You can then market yourself at a pace that suits you, with other women who will be interested in what you’re putting down. That's what groups like this are made for, after all.

Connect with Other Entrepreneurs in the Same Position

If you want to be understood, you need to talk to people who know what you’re going through. You need to be in touch with other entrepreneurs, both male and female, who are in the same boat and have the same overarching concerns and worries.

When you make these connections, you’re far more likely to strike up firm friendships. That’s always a boon in business; you want to know there are people out there actively cheering for you, and willing to see you succeed.

And when it comes to networking at the higher levels, these relationships will push you up as well. They’re going to know all kinds of people as well, and whatever they hear on the grapevine is likely to be sent your way as well.

Attend Woman-Led Networking Events

When you’re in attendance at a woman-led event, you’re going to notice just how many other women will be in the crowd. The stage will be packed with powerful women in business, and you’re more likely to get the numbers of successful women you can both relate to and learn from.

The attendance list for networking events like these can feel very reflective of your own needs and wants, and you’re likely to enjoy the environment of such an event a lot too. After all, with so many women working behind the scenes and milling around you, it’s an instant reminder that what you want to achieve can be done - and has been!

Plus, networking events are made with finding support in mind. If you want more women in your network, make sure you attend their events!

Similarly, make sure you take along some awesome printed business cards with foil to hand out, as you’ll need to get your own name, face, and number around as well. Don’t forget that the business struggles you’re dealing with aren’t unique. There could be hundreds of other female entrepreneurs in attendance who have been looking for a contact just like you.

Invest in These Relationships as Time Goes on

A supportive network isn’t built by accident. It’s not something you can just click a few buttons to maintain, no matter how easy LinkedIn might make it seem. You need to actively invest in the relationships you’re interested in.

So don’t be professional 24/7. Don’t make it all about business. If you want to work with someone for years to come, reach out to them on this basic and personal level. Get to know them outside of the work you both do, show interest in what they enjoy and are passionate about, and let them send the same energy back your way.

To keep this consistent, schedule plenty of regular check-ins with them, whether this is bi-monthly, monthly, or quarterly, and keep the goodwill flowing back and forth.

Building a Network You Can Rely on

Are you a female entrepreneur who could really do with some like-minded people around you? Then you need to build yourself a supportive network, made up of fellow female and male entrepreneurs who know the struggle.

It’s not easy to be in business on your own. It’s not easy to come up from nothing and find the funding, support, and market that’s perfect for you. But the more you invest in your networking outreach, the more you’re going to find yourself in the right place.

Attend both in-person and online networking events, make sure you’re supporting other entrepreneurs like yourself, and don’t forget the power of some female insight on your journey.

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