October is National Women’s Small Business month, which makes it a great time to highlight the advancements made by women in business and celebrate women business owners. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, there are more than 11 million women-owned businesses in the U.S. – 38 percent of all business. Pushing the Envelope is one of those certified women-owned and led small businesses!

So, what better way to celebrate than by gaining some insider insight from our Woman-in-Chief Samantha Scott on her passion for small business, while getting a glance into her journey as a small business owner?

During our conversation, I was able to learn a bit more about how APEX woman of the year Scott grew Pushing the Envelope into Southwest Florida’s Best PR firm as voted by the readers of Gulfshore Magazine.

Here are 4 tips from our conversation to help anyone who’s thinking about taking a leap and starting their own business:

1. Develop your skills – Professional development is important, with more than 11 million woman-owned business in the U.S. alone, defining ways to reach your goals and develop your skills is something you should stay on top of. The benefits of investing in yourself are priceless.
2. Be a mentor, or find one – Most successful business owners have a mentor. Whether you’re a novice or a pro having a mentor can help you learn more about your field. Knowing the value of a mentor, remember to share with others what you’ve learned.
3. Share your story – Spread the word about your business – and in doing so inspire other women who aspire to own their own business and help network with other like-minded individuals.
4. Take a leap – Starting your own business can be intimidating but don’t let fear stop you. “‘What if I fall?’ ‘Oh, but my darling, what if you fly?’”