In the wake of International Women’s Day on Saturday the 8th of May, the idea of how the role of women in business has changed over time is at the forefront of our celebration of women, female empowerment and broader notions of equality.
Not only is it important to understand how this has changed over time, but it’s arguably more important to receive direct feedback from business women on what their personal experiences have been like and what they’ve learnt.
That way, we can gain insight into the lived experiences of hardworking professional women and use the lessons they’ve learnt to help and motivate aspiring female entrepreneurs. After all, who’s best suited to providing women with business advice than fellow females who have both experience and have achieved in the professional world?
It’s all about women uplifting other women, by means of general professional advice and support in the workplace as well as more specific guidance on how to deal with issues that may only affect females. With so many industries still completely male-dominated, this gender-specific advice can be invaluable.
From industries including PR and real estate to sustainability and charity, we spoke to a group of 18 inspiring female entrepreneurs and business professionals from across the UK and Europe to gather their advice for aspiring female entrepreneurs.
Our Experts
- Laura Dowling: Founder and CEO of fabÜ
- Carol Driver: Journalist, PR Expert and Founder of Carol Driver PR
- Olivia Conlon: Founder of StagerBoss and Founder and CEO of Property Stagers
- Kelly Lundberg: Personal Brand Strategist, TedX Speaker and Author
- Sarah Abel: Director of TNB Skills Training
- Lucy McCarraher: Entrepreneur, Author and Host of “Mission Magic”
- Fiona Wylie: Founder and CEO of Brand Champions
- Caroline Miller: Founder and Managing Director at Indigo Pearl
- Janice MacLennan: CEO and Founder at Nmblr
- Rebecca Oatley: Founder of Cherish PR and The Wilful Group
- Samantha Lancashire: Founder of Creating Lightbulb Moments
- Hayley Knight: Founder of BE YELLOW
- Claire Crompton: Founder and Commercial Director of TAL Agency
- Rachel Delacour: CEO and Co-Founder of Sweep
- Irra Ariella Khi: Founder of Sunflower Relief
- Sophie King: Founder of SOKI London
- Cheney Hamilton: CEO of The Find Your Flex Group
- Kirstie Penk: Co-Founder of The Legal Director
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Laura Dowling, Founder and CEO of fabÜ
As a female founder in a male-dominated industry and a highly competitive market, I had to find innovative ways to market my brand, fabÜ, while establishing myself as a trusted expert in women’s health. When I launched fabÜ in June 2022, I knew that standing out required more than just great products—I had to create conversations that no one else was having. This led me to develop Viva la Vulva, a groundbreaking wellness show dedicated to female genital and pelvic health, covering topics like pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, urinary incontinence, and vaginal health. The show toured Ireland to sold-out audiences and recently completed two shows at the National Concert Hall in Dublin, with over 2,000 women attending.
I believe female founders thrive through collaboration, not competition. By sharing knowledge, stories, and, most importantly, failures, we create a stronger network where everyone benefits. There’s always room at the table, and when we lift each other up, we all rise together. This ethos extends to my podcast, The Laura Dowling Experience, where I invite other female founders to discuss their journeys, challenges, and successes. By fostering open conversations, we empower more women to succeed in business.
Carol Driver, Journalist, PR Expert and Founder of Carol Driver PR
Olivia Conlon, Founder of StagerBoss and Founder and CEO of Property Stagers
“You don’t have to be great to get started, but you do have to get started to become great.
“A decade in on my entrepreneurial career now, I wish I could encompass my newbie energy: you’re slightly naive, totally green and lack inhibitions – this may feel like your biggest weakness, but it’s truly your superpower.
As a new entrepreneur, you’re fearless, willing to take risk and unafraid to try things that seasoned entrepreneurs might hesitate to do. With more experience often comes baggage, doubt and caution. But when you’re just starting out, you have a unique advantage – the freedom to go for it without overthinking every step. Embrace that energy and document your journey as you go.
Don’t wait for the perfect moment; just jump in, make mistakes, and learn fast. It’s in those unpolished, fearless moments that you’ll grow the quickest and lay the foundation for real success.”
Kelly Lundberg, Personal Brand Strategist, TedX Speaker and Author
Having launched a personal styling brand, and now running a thriving personal branding company, one of the key lessons I’ve learned is that starting a business is an evolving journey. Your initial idea will likely adapt as you discover what your audience and the market truly need – so stay flexible and open to change.
Another important lesson is that people buy from people. Your business might offer the perfect solution, but it’s YOU, your personal brand who builds trust and opens doors. Visibility is key – don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Not everyone will be your client, but they might refer you to someone who is. My TedX opportunity came through the wife of a friend I played sports with for years – you never know who’s talking about you in a positive light!
Keep investing in yourself. It’s impossible to have all the answers, so if you want to grow faster, learn from those who’ve done it before you. Mentorship, courses or networking can be game-changers.
“Finally, document your journey. Capture content early – even if your first speaking gig has only three attendees. Your future brand will thank you!”
Sarah Abel, Director of TNB Skills Training
“Starting a business is exciting, but it’s not just about passion – it’s about resilience, adaptability and knowing when to pivot. If I could go back, I’d tell myself three things:
1. Start before you feel ready. Perfectionism can be a dream killer. You’ll learn more by doing than by over-planning.
2. Get comfortable with discomfort. Growth happens outside your comfort zone, whether it’s pitching, hiring or making tough decisions.
3. Funding is out there – use it! Many female founders don’t realise how much government funding and grants exist to support business growth. I built my business using these resources and now I help others do the same.
Most importantly, remember that challenges aren’t roadblocks – they’re redirections. Stay focused, surround yourself with the right people, and keep pushing forward. You’ve got this!”
Lucy McCarraher, Entrepreneur, Author and Host of “Mission Magic”
“When I launched several of my businesses, I wish I had been more aware that I had been subtly positioned as having a ‘behind the scenes’, ‘backup’ role by my co-founders who were generally more extravert to my introvert. When on more than one occasion it became obvious that I was just as much an ‘expert’ as the other person and was also good at being a ‘front person’, it caused some friction that was uncomfortable to deal with. This has happened with both women and men business partners/co-founders. If you’re the quieter of two partners, and also good at holding the back office together, make sure from the start that this is not a role you are relegated to – unless that’s how you like it.
An important lesson I’ve learned when working in a team of mostly men, and with male co-founders, is that although women generally have to balance being seen as ‘agreeable’ with being assertive, sometimes you have to let go of your own need to be liked by everyone and to make everything right for everyone else. Pick your battles, and the way you choose to fight them, but when you do need to make a stand, remember that being unpopular in the moment will pass and lead to more respect for you in the long term. And if it doesn’t, you’re in the wrong place with the wrong people.”
Fiona Wylie: Founder and CEO of Brand Champions
“The best advice I can give to aspiring female entrepreneurs is to stay true to yourself—never compromise on your values or vision. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of saying no. It’s okay to set boundaries, trust your instincts, and stand firm in your decisions. In a male-dominated world, self-doubt can creep in, but staying authentic and believing in yourself is key to success. Strength comes from knowing your worth and not allowing others to dictate your path. Surround yourself with supportive women who uplift and empower you. You’ve got this!”
Caroline Miller, Founder and Managing Director at Indigo Pearl
“As a female founder, one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to block out the guilt. There’s
no shortage of think pieces in magazines, radio debates, and unsolicited opinions telling
women what they should or shouldn’t do, whether it’s staying at home, working, having kids,
not having kids, wearing makeup, not wearing makeup…the list is endless.
The truth is that women aren’t a monolith. We all want different things, and what feels right
for one person won’t be right for another, sometimes even for ourselves at different points in
life. The key is making sure you’re doing what’s right for you, not what others think you
should be doing.
You might run out of hours in the day, but you’ll never run out of other people’s opinions.
Block them out, trust yourself, and crack on, you’ll be criticised no matter what, so you might
as well do what makes you happy.”
Janice MacLennan, CEO and Founder, Nmblr
When I began my startup, Nmblr, a strategy platform for healthcare businesses, the biggest challenge wasn’t just turning an idea into a business; it was learning to scale my vision beyond myself.
Any founder knows their business is personal. I’ve always been clear on Nmblr’s vision and knew there was a real business need for it. Research showed poor functional alignment delays nearly one in five pharma product launches. I had a solution to change that.
But no matter how strong your vision is, success isn’t a solo effort.
I wish I had realised earlier the power of building the right team—not just skilled professionals, but those who align with your purpose and push your business forward. Real momentum happens when you surround yourself with people who challenge you, complement your strengths, and take ownership.
Letting go of the need to control everything and trusting others to execute my vision was when Nmblr truly took shape.
So, to anyone stepping into the startup space: Invest in people who believe in what you’re building. Your business will be stronger because of it.
Rebecca Oatley, Founder of Cherish PR and The Wilful Group
“One of the most important lessons I’ve learned as a female founder is the power of networking and staying connected. So many of my agencies’ successes have come from building and maintaining relationships over time. Relationships are built on trust and that means honesty and good solid work. Women will help women, but you must put yourself out there – attend events, reach out to female founders, and share your story and your great work. The time you invest in your network will always be paid back.
I also wish I had known that sometimes you just have to give yourself permission to trust your instincts and push forward even when things feel a bit uncertain. Don’t wait because of doubt. There is no perfect time to start a business. If you have an idea, pursue it and adapt it along the way.
Above all, keep learning. Read, listen, and absorb as much wisdom as you can. There’s always something new to discover that could change the way you grow your business.”
Samantha Lancashire, Founder of Creating Lightbulb Moments
“Trust yourself, even when the world may make you feel doubt!
When I launched my business, I thought success meant having it all figured out. Spoiler: No one does. The biggest lesson I’ve learned?
Take imperfect action.
Waiting for the “perfect” moment, plan, or pitch will hold you back. Start, adapt, and refine as you go. Do the first thing first.
As a female founder in a male-dominated tech-world, I’ve also learned that our ability to build relationships and foster collaboration is powerful. Where others compete – connect. Turn networks into opportunities and challenges into partnerships. Lean into your strengths, and never apologise for leading authentically.
Remember you don’t have to do it alone!
Women supporting women is a game-changer in business. Find your tribe, lean on coaches and mentors, and pay it forward when you can.
You belong in the room. You deserve success. Go do your thing.”
Hayley Knight, Founder of BE YELLOW
It’s also important to set clear boundaries and don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo. If something isn’t working, create your own way forward. That’s what entrepreneurship is about. Jump off the cliff and build the parachute on the way down.
Finally, don’t wait for perfection. Many women hesitate to launch until everything feels “ready,” but progress beats perfection every time. Start now, learn as you go, and adapt along the way.”
Claire Crompton: Founder and Commercial Director of TAL Agency
“Never underestimate the power of a strong support network early on in your entrepreneurial journey. I started my agency with two under two, so surrounding myself with mentors, peers and advisers from both a professional and personal perspective – people who understood my vision and goals – made all the difference. It’s so easy to become isolated, but having advice and collaboration from others from the get-go is invaluable.
“Marketing as a profession may be female-dominated, but in terms of running an agency, it’s extremely male-dominated. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to trust my instincts, and to never apologise for my ambition. It’s easy to second guess yourself when you’re constantly coming up against barriers to break, but it’s key to have confidence in your decisions. Own your voice, be assertive, and advocate for yourself every chance you get.”
Rachel Delacour, CEO and Co-Founder of Sweep
“Entrepreneurship doesn’t come with a guidebook, and my journey from finding my first company to then launching Sweep is proof. Navigating new industries and challenging traditional ways of working often proved to be the most innovative solutions.
This is especially true for female tech entrepreneurs. The fact is, there’s a higher proportion of men than women in our industry, and there can be a tendency for people to think women have less to offer . However, the business world is changing, and skills once dismissed as peripheral, such as sustainability and communication, are increasingly being seen as strategic advantages. As climate concerns take centre stage in boardrooms, these very skills are opening new pathways to leadership.
Entrepreneurship of course comes with challenges, but building something new has its own power. Without legacy systems and processes holding you back, you can shape your business into something that is diverse, forward-thinking and built for the future.
And when it comes to investment, I say “be bold”. More investors now recognise that backing women-led companies is a smart business decision, bringing previously under-represented, and therefore fresh perspectives into play. The narrative around success is shifting, and women’s perspective isn’t just valuable—it’s essential.”
Sophie King, Founder of SOKI London
“When I launched my business, I wish I had truly understood the power of my own voice. As women, we sometimes hesitate to take up space, but the truth is—our ideas, our creativity, and our vision are just as valuable as anyone else’s. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that confidence isn’t something you wait for; it’s something you build by showing up, taking risks, and trusting yourself.
The business world can be tough, especially in male-dominated industries, but resilience and authenticity will always set you apart. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you deserve, celebrate your wins, and uplift other women along the way. Success is never a solo journey—surround yourself with those who inspire and support you. The more women who step forward, the more we change the landscape for the future. Believe in your vision and never dim your light for anyone.”
Irra Ariella Khi, Founder of Sunflower Relief
“The best advice I can give? Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you have to be the smartest person in the room. If you are, you’re in the wrong room. Success comes from surrounding yourself with people who are better than you—whether that’s your team, your investors, or your advisors. The real skill isn’t knowing everything; it’s knowing how to bring the right people together and let them shine.
And be willing to make the tough calls. We once scrapped a two-year project because it wasn’t the right direction. It was painful, but the worst thing you can do as a founder is cling to something just because you’ve invested time and money in it. Adaptability is everything. The businesses that thrive aren’t the ones that never make mistakes—they’re the ones that learn and move forward faster than anyone else.”
Cheney Hamilton, CEO of The Find Your Flex Group
“I wish I had known that success isn’t about working harder, it’s about working smarter. When I started, I thought I had to do everything myself, proving my worth by sheer effort and working 17hr days with a new baby and it was hell! After eight years in business, now I know true growth comes when you focus on outcomes, delegate wisely, and trust your instincts. Building a business should not mean burning out; it should be about designing a model that works for you and your life.
As a female founder in a male-dominated world I’ve learned that we don’t have to play by outdated rules to win. The corporate world often values presenteeism over productivity, but as women, we bring a different perspective, one that values efficiency, flexibility, and impact over just “hours worked.” By challenging traditional work models and leading with confidence, we can redefine success on our own terms.
To any aspiring female entrepreneur please don’t shrink yourself to fit someone else’s version of success, own your vision, build with purpose, and lift others as you rise.”
Kirstie Penk: Co-Founder of The Legal Director
“Build your business with people who lift you up and share your values. If you have business partners, make sure you’re on the same page about the big vision and the everyday realities like financial goals, how hard you are prepared to work and how fast you want to grow. Surrounding yourself with women at a similar stage in life can bring balance, understanding and strength to the journey.
As a female founder in a world that sadly still too often underestimates women, trust your instincts and take up space. Believe in yourself even when others don’t. Be brave, take risks and go after what you want, because some of those risks will open doors that you might never imagined. It’s scary, but amazing. Hard work is part of it, but so is making space to pause, reflect and enjoy what you are building, both personal and with your team. Your success is yours, but it also shows other women what is possible. Keep lifting others up as you climb, and always take time to celebrate how far you have come.”
