Book Description
“Ann Holmes has created the perfect guide to help women turn their dreams into a reality.”
–Donna Mullen Good, CEO of the Center for Women & Enterprise
If you’ve ever dreamed of starting your own business, or if you’ve ever wondered about how to build up the business you already run, but worry because you don’t have an MBA or a couple of years of college business courses, this book is for you. Based on extensive interviews with more than eighty women entrepreneurs from around the country, There’s a Business in Every Woman offers inspiring success stories (and instructive missteps) in a wide range of businesses–from catering, landscaping, personal training, and wedding and events planning to interior and clothing design, staffing, manufacturing, and product design.
What the trailblazing women in this book have in common is a good idea and the courage to turn a dream into a money-making reality through hard work, passion, and drive. Take, for instance, the woman who started an IT consulting company in her basement and now has more than a thousand employees in three states; two jogging buddies who commiserated about their uncomfortable bras and went on to design and produce a jog bra, creating a company that Playtex ultimately bought for millions; the mom whose hand-made birthday-party invitations made such a splash that she launched her own custom party invitation company, which she expanded to include holiday cards, gift tags, bags, and more; the sixty-five-year-old corporate wife and mother who applied her domestic talents to opening a profitable B&B; the twenty-three-year-old who bought a fledging real estate franchise and now earns a healthy six figures annually.
These success stories highlight the practical: focusing on what you’re good at; setting up your business properly–even if you are starting out from your basement or garage; getting financial backing when you need it; marketing your products with sizzle; networking like the “good old boys”; understanding how and when to diversify your products or services; managing your growth; and, most important, knowing what your company is worth and when it might be lucrative to cash out.
An accessible crash course in starting and running your own business, There’s a Business in Every Woman will teach you everything you need to know to turn your pipedream into serious profits.
Customer Reviews:
If you want to start your own business, read this book.......2007-05-04
This book is great for anyone who is in business or wants to start a business. Ann Holmes knows her subject. She has successfully started, run and sold multiple businesses. Although directed toward women, anyone going into business can benefit.
Ann writes with the wisdom of a mother who knows how to coach her children from birth to graduation, one step at a time. She assumes the reader is starting at the beginning and must acquire the business language, know-how, and understanding needed to operate a successful company.
True to her subtitle, the book provides a concise 7-step guide to discovering, starting and building the business of your dreams. It comes complete with a checklist for each step, real life examples, and plenty of resources. Ann openly shares her own experiences of having to make tough decisions to get her business through difficult times. Beside the checklists there are "Success" stories and "Regrets" stories to help you recognize the value of each step and what the consequences could be if you do not organize a business in a systematic way.
In the second part of her book, putting the seven steps into practice, Ann continues to provide real-life examples so the reader will comes away with a total concept that the business owner's role is to be the captain who charts the course for the business and uses the wisdom of the 7-step guide to navigate the business to a successful outcome including selling the business if that is your goal.
The only thing left for the reader is to have the brilliant business idea, follow the 7-step guide, and make the decisions that let your business flourish.
Armchair Interviews says: With so many women starting businesses, anything that helps them be successful is important to read.
A ra-ra book for women who want to think about starting their own small business........2007-04-12
I enjoyed this book. I think any woman who collects a W-2 and wants to become self-employed would do themselves a favor to read this book as they plan to make the transition. As I turned the pages to this book I felt as though I was reading a re-write of Ginny Wilmerding's book that came out last year entitled Smart Women and Small Business (ISBN: 0471778680). See my review for that book.
This book is broken into 10 chapters as follows:
1. How Do You Know if There's a Business in You?
2. Choose and Focus on Your Core Competencies
3. Build Your Company's Infrastructure
4. Keep Good Financials
5. Market Your Products
6. Diversify
7. Plan and Manage Growth
8. Understand Valuation and Organize an Exit Plan
9. Put Your Company into Play
10. Done Deals: Sold Companies and IPOs
It claims to include a 7-step guide to discovering, starting, and building the business of your dreams. I found the "guide" to include some wonderful information, but I did not find it to flow logically from one step to the next. At page 30 of the book in Figure 2 the 7-steps are diagrammed. I'm not going to point out all the diagram's flaws, but I will say I think it would have been much better if it had been written as the following "7 steps." See
1. Learn the ropes of your business BEFORE you start it (have a skill set)
2. Prepare a business plan
3. Start the business
4. Market the business & keep good financial records
5. Grow & Diversify
6. Systematize the business
7. Sell the business (exit & move on)
The author says at page 5 of the book that she wrote it for women entrepreneurs to help them navigate the steps to business success. As long as you keep in mind the above 7 steps I have written here you can read the book and the author will accomplish what she set out to do by writing the book. There is lots of great content in this book. My favorite part was Chapters 9 & 10 that describes the process of preparing to sell your company and cash out. I would have liked the book better if the topic of venture capital had been left out. It did not seem appropriate for the target audience of this book.
I particularly liked the reference made to SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) at page 35. I'm a SCORE volunteer, and the fact that I am is probably why I am reviewing this book. It's worth a read. 4 stars!
Customer Reviews:
A Must Read for Black Female Business Owners.......2007-10-02
It is with great enthusiasm that I offer my highest recommendation for Sister CEO: The Black Woman's Guide to Starting Your Own Business. This book is a must read for any aspiring and/or established black female business owner. This book has been completely instrumental in my gowth as an entrepreneur and as a reult I regard it as my business bible. The book is both incredibly informative and inspiring. The author does an incredible job of presenting both the pros and cons of starting a business. In addition, Ms. Broussard shares both her personal experiences and those of other successful black female business owners which makes for an excellent read. This book is definitely one of the best books that I have ever read and I highly recommend it for any black woman who is thinking of starting her own business.
Nia Rose, Founder & CEO
Historical Escapes
THIS BOOK IS AMAZING!.......2007-03-21
This book gives you exactly what you need to push forward and start your own business. There's nothing like being a SISTER CEO and I will tell everyone I know about this book. Even if your business is an on-the-side part-time gig, this book helps you get moving. It's very inspirational and a MUST READ for the Sister CEOs of tomorrow.
Aspiring Salon & Spa Owner.......2002-09-03
I purchased and read this book three years ago when I was a college student. I read it and honesty have to say didn't put much thought into the valuable information and advice until I entered the "Real World" aka life after college. Since working in Corporate America for the last 2 1/2 years I realize I will never be paid my worth unless I go into business for myself.
This book will lay the foundation for women that are serious about taking control of their financial destiny and life. This is a must read for women serious about success.
Fantastic for all black women.......2001-10-24
I am a Black Australian woman and I found this book applicable to my situation. The information crosses all boundries and the advice useful in many situations.
Believe and Succeed.......2001-04-02
At last a book to inspire and encourage black women to attain greatness. Both my self esteem and belief in my own abilities grew and grew as I read this book. It not only provides a guide to starting your own business, it also makes you believ you can succeed just like our mother and grandmothers, only we didn't see their efforts as entrepreneurial. I appreciate the history of the women of my family more and inspired by the book are working at becoming a part of that history by establishing my own business. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Book Description
Fine-tune your skills as a motivating manager, supervisor, or adviser with this proven self-study primer. Learn the differences between counseling and coaching--and when to apply each technique for the best results. Reader-involving chapters help you identify your weaker coaching and counseling skills and build upon your stronger ones.
Average customer rating:
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Black Enterprise Guide to Technology for Entrepreneurs
Bernadette Williams
Manufacturer: Wiley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 General
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
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MIS
| Industries & Professions
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
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General
| E-commerce
| Industries & Professions
| Business & Investing
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Management
| Management & Leadership
| Business & Investing
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Entrepreneurship
| Small Business & Entrepreneurship
| Business & Investing
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General
| Small Business & Entrepreneurship
| Business & Investing
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Marketing
| Small Business & Entrepreneurship
| Business & Investing
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Web Marketing
| Business & Culture
| Computers & Internet
| Subjects
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Internet
| Home Computing
| Computers & Internet
| Subjects
| Books
| Internet & Education
| Online Searching
| Web Browsers
| Web for Kids
General
| Computers & Internet
| Subjects
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African-American Studies
| Special Groups
| Social Sciences
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 0471443581 |
Book Description
"This is a much-needed guide for entrepreneurs to learn how to transform their businesses with technology. This book, quite literally, builds a bridge across the digital divide."
-William E. Kennard, former Chairman, Federal Communications Commission
Embrace new technology and empower your small business!
Black Enterprise Guide to Technology for Entrepreneurs presents step-by-step strategies for effectively and productively integrating new technologies into your business. An expert in information technology and Internet business, Bernadette Williams provides a framework for successfully promoting your products and services on the Internet, with heavy emphasis on developing an integrated strategy that combines both traditional and online methods. She reveals how other African American—owned companies have utilized new technologies to increase profits, reach a global network of customers, and streamline internal operations. You get the tools you need to:
- Hire and retain information technology personnel and choose technology vendors
- Target your market and project the right corporate image
- Incorporate e-commerce into your Web strategy
- Form powerful alliances and attract an array of customers
- Prepare for the future by positioning your business for growth
Take the next step and incorporate all that the Web and new technology have to offer to small businesses with Black Enterprise Guide to Technology for Entrepreneurs.
Special Bonus
To keep you abreast of the latest business and money management information,
Black Enterprise is pleased to offer:
- A free issue of Black Enterprise magazine
- A free Wealth Building Kit
(See inside coupons for details.)
Customer Reviews:
Delivers On Its Title.......2003-03-02
I found this book particularly well done and interesting in two aspects. First, I was impressed that this was truly a book for the African American and for the "Black Enterprise" population internationally. So much research is incorporated, without making it hard to read. I felt I had a much better understanding of the needs as well as the contributions of that population after reading the book.
Secondly, this was a great practical book on technology and how to use it to further a business. I am not a tech person, but I had no trouble understanding any of it, and I learned a lot I didn't know about how to use technology in ways that will enhance the profit potential of my business. I particularly liked the chapter on Improving Your Company's Internet ROI which covers planning for your site step-by-step.
There are also over 20 pages of web sites of interest to African American entrepreneurs, and the numerous appendices including a tremendous glossary are worth the price of the book alone.
Average customer rating:
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The Black Entrepreneur's Guide to Success
Melvin J., II Gravely , and
Apryl Motley
Manufacturer: Duncan & Duncan
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Reference
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
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Entrepreneurship
| Small Business & Entrepreneurship
| Business & Investing
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African-American Studies
| Special Groups
| Social Sciences
| Nonfiction
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General
| Reference
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ASIN: 1878647237 |
Book Description
To the point, accurate, and jam-packed with crucial advice and steps for new business owners (or those about to enter business) including the kinds of behind the scene problems black entrepreneurs will face along the way and how to effectively deal with these issues.
Average customer rating:
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The Couple's Business Guide
Amy Lyon
Manufacturer: Perigee Trade
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
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Management
| Management & Leadership
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
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General
| Small Business & Entrepreneurship
| Business & Investing
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ASIN: 0399523006 |
Amazon.com
With a growing number of entrepreneurs these days entering into commercial ventures with their spouses or significant others, The Couple's Business Guide: How to Start and Grow a Small Business Together by writer Amy Lyon is a timely dose of motivation and reality. By profiling couples who operate 10 gourmet food businesses in Vermont, and analyzing their experiences with 20-20 hindsight, Lyon has created a good first stop for anyone considering a similar partnership path.
Average customer rating:
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Cps Review Management Self Study Guide
Cherry
Manufacturer: Prentice Hall
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
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General
| Skills
| Business & Investing
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Entrepreneurship
| Small Business & Entrepreneurship
| Business & Investing
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General
| Small Business & Entrepreneurship
| Business & Investing
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ASIN: 0130847135 |
Average customer rating:
- Oldie But Goodie
- Naive and unhelpful
- An Essential Guide for Businesswomen
- I LOVE THIS BOOK!
- Hated book
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Dive Right in - The Sharks Won't Bite: The Entrepreneurial Woman's Guide to Success
Jane Wesman
Manufacturer: Prentice Hall Trade
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Women & Business
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Job Hunting & Careers
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
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Management
| Management & Leadership
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
| Books
Entrepreneurship
| Small Business & Entrepreneurship
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
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General
| Small Business & Entrepreneurship
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Women's Studies
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
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ASIN: 0137372302 |
Customer Reviews:
Oldie But Goodie.......2007-07-09
I revisited my well worn copy of DIVE RIGHT IN, and was amazed how well Wesman's advice has stood up over the years. If you haven't read this one, you should. Wesman is shrewd, sharp, and on the money.
Naive and unhelpful.......2002-02-16
Although this book was recommended to me by a former co-worker who opened up her own office, I felt that I read it all before. Like "Get a notebook to record everything you do." DUH! I learned that at one of my first internships ten years ago. There are a ton of no brainer ideas.
An Essential Guide for Businesswomen.......2001-10-20
This is a wonderful book. It's filled with good advice and inspiring stories. Although most of us want to believe that men and women behave and act the same way in business, that's not always the case. In addition to giving solid advice that anyone can use, whether male or female, Wesman pinpoints some of the problems that women face and provides workable ideas and solutions. Some of her insights are extremely subtle, so not everyone may understand what she's up to at first. But those women who continue to use the book as they grow their businesses, will find invaluable insights here.
I LOVE THIS BOOK!.......2001-08-16
Any woman who needs the encouragement to start a business should read Dive Right In. Jane Wesman is a great motivator. This book is filled with wonderful advice on everything from starting up to marketing/sales to hiring employees. The last chapter is a real gem -- Wesman's sharkproof strategies for enrepreneurial success.
Hated book.......2001-06-02
Boring, dull and trite this book talked down to its audience. As a women in her mid-thirties, I've had both men and women role models. Although there is pretty good advice, I feel that I've read it all before.
Book Description
We've all been told that nice girls don't get the corner office. And they certainly don't strike out on their own to start a million-dollar company. . . Fortunately, we all know better. As the head of the highly successful SBTV.com (Small Business Television), author Susan Wilson Solovic is an authority on making money and building a thriving business. Now in The Girls' Guide to Building a Million-Dollar Business, she shows women how to gain the confidence and knowledge they need to become successful entrepreneurs.
Featuring interviews with daring, powerhouse women like Gayle Martz, President & CEO, Sherpa's Pet Trading Company, and Taryn Rose of Taryn Rose International, Solovic offers frank advice and hard-won lessons including:
-Taking emotions out of the workplace.
-Make business decisions based on what is best for the company, not on your personal feelings.
-Thinking big and bold.
-Believe that you can be successful and be willing to announce your intentions to the world.
-Managing for growth.
-Hire the right people and discover the best ways to keep them.
-Never being afraid to take a chance.
-Boost profits by taking financial risks.
Inspiring and unflinching, The Girls' Guide to Building a Million-Dollar Business shows women that not only do they have the power to earn more money and control their financial destinies - they deserve to.
Customer Reviews:
She Knows What She's Writing About.......2007-10-15
Susan Solovic walks the the talk. That should be the first criteria for any author. Read this book, (not just for girls!) and find a way to meet Susan on the air or in person, you'll be glad you did.
John Jantsch, author of Duct Tape Marketing: The World's Most Practical Small Business Marketing Guide
One woman's take (based on personal experience) on how to build a significant biz - one that grosses over $1 million annually!.......2007-10-10
This was a wonderful book to read. I'm not exactly sure why it is a "Girl's Guide" except for the fact that it is written by a woman based on her own personal experiences. But it's a great book for a woman to read regarding the ins-and-outs of starting a business. Furthermore, it emphasizes that significant companies with $1 million in annual gross revenues are something MORE women should strive to create. And this book should help motivate a woman to do just that - build a big one.
The book is pretty straightforward in its approach regarding how to start a business and then grow it. It is broken into 3 sections as follows:
1. Laying the groundwork for a Million-Dollar business (1-3)
2. Using the 4 strategic keys to growing your business (4-7)
3. Accelerating your business growth (8-10)
The chapters included are as follows:
1. Start the Million-Dollar journey
2. Think big and bold
3. Get ready, get set, grow
4. Create the vision
5. Develop the right team
6. Implement key marketing strategies
7. Fund your business growth
8. Develop growth strategies
9. The rest of the story
10. Great resources
I was particularly impressed with the coverage of business plans. The author definitely believes in them and that they are very important to a business owner and or manager. The importance of business plans, the elements of business plans, and key questions for business plans were all discussed. But this book does not go into too much depth on how to actually write a business plan.
According to this book less than 3% of all businesses are women-owned. And compared to the 6% figure for men-owned business, there is clearly a need for the instant book. It is well written and fun to read. 5 stars!
Customer Reviews:
Study.......2000-09-10
I am studying for Certified Public Examinations and I stumbled across a copy of this book . I find this book relevant to our course because some questions from a past examination paper appear to have come from here. Unfortunately Horngreens book is very scarce around here. I am very sure people in this part of the world would use this book if it was more available. Question and answer book would be appreciated more.
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