In the time of an economic downturn, it is no secret that companies start to lay off their staff. This is an opportunity in disguise for many women professionals who have been toying with the idea of self-employment for a while. Once on their own, many experienced women professionals find training a very attractive career path through which they can become established relatively quickly.
Women have strong nurturing personalities by nature. They like to add value to others, improve their own communities and environments and build the next generation. Women are also known for being great communicators and they outperform their male counterparts in listening and empathizing with others. All these characteristics are at the heart of becoming a successful trainer. These qualities position women perfectly to launch a successful training business, especially in soft skill training.
More than ever before, now is a great time to launch a training business. I am sure you are aware that there are 2 global events which will be hosted in the region, namely the Expo 2020 in Dubai and the World Cup 2022 in Qatar. These two events are going to increase the demand for talent across the region. Think of the large number of projects that are planned and the increase in the number of visitors who will come to the Middle East during this time. Customer service, communication skills, cultural awareness and event management are some of the many soft skills areas expected to flourish in the coming 6-8 years. The good news is that women lead the way in understanding, implementing and transferring those skills.
There are merits for women in particular to venture on their own as freelance trainers:
- Working from home – freelancing means there is no need for a daily commute which saves both time and money. Most women start their freelance business from a spare bedroom, garage, basement, a small desk in the corner of a living room or even from their kitchen table.
- The freedom of setting their own schedule – working as a freelancer can really give women the flexibility they crave, especially in the Middle East where women still assume a dual role of taking care of their families alongside their career. Freelancing means a woman can work as many or as few hours as she wants.
- A springboard to launch a full-fledged training company – freelancing is a risk free way to test your business idea before you jump into it with full force. Freelancing provides the opportunity to hone your training skills, build connections and learn from feedback before you make the decision to commit to building a full-fledged training company.
- No need for a lot of money to get started – you don’t have to rent an office, buy inventory, or hire staff. Unlike traditional businesses, which often require a significant up-front financial investment, a woman can start her freelance business with a small investment.
- No office politics and no fear of getting “fired” – there is no need to get dragged into office bickering, which for most women is a big advantage. You also will say farewell to hearing the dreaded words “you’re fired!” In many GCC countries, I may add that you can also say goodbye to the insecurity of having your residence visa cancelled and being asked to leave the country in 28 days.
- Make money doing what you love – becoming a freelance trainer can really be the way for many women to live their passion. Women are emotionally centered. They excel only in areas in which they are truly passionate.
Launching a freelance training business in the Middle East is a great opportunity for women to capitalize on their own natural strengths and generate income whilst helping improve the lives of others.
