Divas doing business: advice for starting and managing your own business

 

“My book, ‘Divas Doing Business: What the Guidebooks Don’t Tell You about Being a Woman Entrepreneur,” is different from other books on this subject in several different ways,” notes successful restaurateur and author Monique Hayward. “Firstly, most of the books out there focus on famous women like Oprah or Martha or Tyra. I chose to feature the insights and perspectives of women who may not be as well known but are still movers and shakers in their respective industries.

 

“Secondly, I try to bring the real deal to the forefront. Though I’m positive in my views, I mince no words when I state that starting a business is pretty difficult. There are no easy-to-follow steps, so to speak.”

 

The book is divided into Diva Lessons which detail critical stages on the road to business ownership.  The topics covered include preparing a business plan, getting financing and marketing. In addition to recounting her personal trials and tribulations, Hayward profiles 9 women entrepreneurs, successful in their various business niches. “These women have fantastic stories to tell, each providing perspective on the topic at hand,” she says.

 

Some of the noteworthy women interviewed include Lisa Price, founder of rising skincare line Carol’s Daughter; Sheril Cohen Kunz, founder of Girl on the Go wigs, who fought a personal battle with cancer and hair loss;  Valerie Red-Horse, an accomplished investment banker, filmmaker, entrepreneur, wife and mother; and Margaret Wallace, CEO of Rebel Monkey, a New York-based game development studio focusing on casual gaming.

 

The book’s forward was written by friend and mentor, actor Morgan Freeman, who writes:  Monique writes [this book] with a style that is direct, provocative, honest and straightforward because she knows you need the straight story as you make critical decisions about starting and managing your own business.

 

One of the first lessons she offers is protect your “M Factors” – Money, Marriage/Motherhood, Mortgage, Motor vehicle and peace of Mind. “This is a construct I came up with for people to think about in terms of life priorities and boundaries. Throughout your business career, you will constantly be tested, but you have to hang on to what’s important to you. Never compromise,” Hayward stresses. 

 

What message does Hayward hope readers will receive from her book?: “Business ownership is at once exciting and challenging, invigorating and stressful. It’s rewarding but will also make you crazy at times. If this is your true dream and you have a good plan that is well-funded and you are motivated to make it work, it will happen.”

 

Copies of Hayward’s book can be ordered directly through her website – MoniqueHayward.com.

 

And don't miss the May 27th The Athena Fortune Show when I interview Monique Hayward live on BlogTalkRadio!