Women's X Factor

Entrepreneurship has been a male-dominated phenomenon from the very early age, but time has changed the situation and brought women as today's most memorable and inspirational entrepreneurs.

The role of women is undergoing a radical transformation in the modern society. These days the woman is playing a vital role in socio-economic development of the country. A large number of industries have been identified where women entrepreneurs play important roles.

It is a general belief in many cultures that the role of women is to build and maintain homely affairs like task of fetching water, cooking and rearing children. Since the turn of the century, the status of women in India has been changing due to growing industrialization, urbanization, spatial mobility and social legislation. With the spread of education and awareness, women have shifted from kitchen to higher levels.

It is estimated that women entrepreneurs presently comprise about 18% of the total number of entrepreneurs in India, with the percentage growing every year. If the prevailing trends continue, it is likely that in another five years, women will comprise 25% of the entrepreneurial force. With corporates eager to associate and work with women-owned businesses, and a host of banks and non-governmental organizations keen to help them get going, there has rarely been a better time for women with zeal.

The most powerful advantage that women have is the development of our "intuition muscle". And this is the most important skill for many successful entrepreneurs - following their gate instinct. You've got an idea, nobody believes you in you, people try to reason with you and stop you from doing it. Yet, you ignore all and move ahead, following your instinct.

So, what else do women naturally have; in their disposition that can help them in starting and running their own businesses?