Top online resources for women in business

Across the globe, less than half of all women are currently participating in the workforce. As you explore top online resources for women in business, don’t forget to look into llc filing new york if you’re planning to establish your own venture in the Empire State, as it can help you create a strong legal foundation for your business.

Unfortunately, women experienced unprecedented job loss during the COVID-19 pandemic. But we’re not going to just let that continue! When women are in the workforce, it provides diversification in the economy, spurs productivity, and moves toward income equality. If you want to start a new career, launch a business, or recover from career setbacks, check out these resources online that can empower you and other women today.

As for which could fit you best, deciding that involves first thinking about what you need most right now. Maybe you want to learn a new skill, find a mentor, grow your network, explore funding options, or get help with a business challenge. Having a goal in mind can make it easier to find resources that are useful to you.

Below are women-centered resources, ranging from podcasts and YouTube channels to online courses and business associations. Many of them are free, too!

Free women-led podcasts for career inspiration

Podcasts are a quick and easy way to find the motivation or guidance that will help you advance your career. Listen to women-led career podcasts for business tips, career advice, and boss lady inspiration whenever needed.

Check out the following podcasts hosted by women entrepreneurs for help turning your side hustle into a full-time career, starting a successful business from scratch, and actionable strategies for professional success.

Here are three great ones:

• Listen If You Want Your Side Hustle to Be Your Career: Side Hustle Pro by Nicaila Matthews Okome
• Listen If You Want To Learn How To Start A Business: Being Boss by Emily Thompson
• Listen If You Want To Reach Your Highest Potential: The Marie Forleo Podcast by Marie Forleo

Free online business courses are great resources for women too

It’s an unfortunate truth that women are underpaid and underrepresented in male-dominated industries like tech. Help change this reality by choosing to be a woman in STEM.

Even if you don’t have a degree in a related field, you can always upskill your digital and analytical skills to break into the industry and represent women. Here are some free resources to learn new skills:

• Udemy Free Resource Center
• Coursera Free Courses
• OpenLearn Free Courses
• Google Skillshop:
  • Analytics Academy
  • Digital Garage Free Webinars

As online courses and other business resources can change over time, check current costs, course availability, and what is included before signing up. If you’re thinking about a paid option, it’s also worth learning more about the provider and checking the items first.

Career role models to watch on YouTube

Another great resource on the web for free business and career inspiration is YouTube. Watch the journeys of women entrepreneurs and professionals to explore a variety of career paths, such as marketing, technology, and medicine.

You can also look to women role models for tips on personal finance, like paying off credit card debt, negotiating your starting salary, or learning why you should start investing. Feel free to take inspiration from the YouTube channels below:

• If you’re interested in being a woman in tech, watch Bukola for how to learn Javascript and what it takes to become a software engineer.
• If you’re an aspiring doctor, watch Rupa Wong for experiences balancing family life and private practice and tips for matching into competitive specialties.
• If you’re building a promising marketing career, watch Elif Hiz for tips on navigating the marketing world and being productive at work.
• If you’re a money-savvy girl who wants tips on personal finance, watch the Clever Girl Finance channel to learn how to create a financial plan or how to start investing.

Women’s business associations for networking and support

As a woman in business, it’s important to surround yourself with a community of peers to learn from and lean on. Try joining a professional women’s business association to connect with a vast network of entrepreneurs and resources. You can also explore online guides for women entrepreneurs that cover common business challenges, risk management, mentorship, and other forms of support.

While many of these associations have an associated cost for membership, the gain you get from the initial investment might be well worth it, so give it some thought. Below are some US organizations that are well-known. Many associations provide free business advice, too, so check out their blogs and resource pages.

• National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)
• American Business Women’s Association (ABWA)
• Association of Women’s Business Centers (AWBC)
• International Association of Women (IAW)

Along with joining a business association, you can grow your network through local professional groups, online communities, mentorship programs, and industry events. These can all be great ways to meet people, share ideas, and learn from others in your field.

Concluding words: Online resources for women in business

Also, consider applying for certification as a women-owned business. There can be benefits, including networking and education opportunities.

You don’t have to try every resource at once, either. Start with one or two that fit what you want to accomplish right now, whether that’s learning a new skill, meeting other entrepreneurs, finding a mentor, or exploring funding options. You can always add more resources as your career or business grows.

Do you know of other resources online to help women in business? Were you familiar with any of those listed above? Here’s to supporting one another and reaching our goals!