Nearly universally, these women started their interviews by saying, “I never set out to start a business”. Instead, most experienced an event external to themselves that caused them to suddenly realize they might be successful in a business of their own. Typical scenarios include:

• Professional women who were laid off or didn’t want to accept a relocation and realized they could do the same type of work as a freelancer

• Women who intentionally quit working for awhile (to stay home with their children, for example) but who had people knocking on their doors for advice or help

• Women who became frustrated with the “rat race” or with corporate politics and realized they could be just as successful without those headaches by hanging out their own shingle

• Women who “stumbled onto” a gift or talent they had that became so “in demand” by others that a business resulted

Regardless of the specifics that led them to start a business, one hallmark of the “Accidental Jane” is that she is unquestionably good at what she does. As a result, people come to her, seeking her help via a product or service. The business grows almost organically through referral and word of mouth – and Accidental Jane seems very happy with the result.

All women entrepreneurs can learn something from Accidental Jane and here are some of the “DO’s” that she does so well:

1. Know your own worth

Accidental Jane doesn’t brag, but she does have a quiet confidence and self-reliance that supports her in her business. At times, she may seem surprised by the relative ease with which business has come to her. But deep down, she knows she’s good at what she does. She’s seen her customers appreciate her efforts and refer her work to others. For this reason, she can remain patient through leaner times and not undercut herself because she knows the value of what her business offers.

2. Let others help you grow

Marketing is critical to getting the word out about your business. At the same time, it’s important to acknowledge that many Accidental Janes have primarily built their businesses through the support of satisfied customers and personal support networks. Are your customers so delighted that they look forward to the opportunity to tell someone else about you? How can you learn from this example and tap into that positive word-of-mouth energy?

3. Enjoy the journey as it unfolds

Accidental Jane is responsive to her customers first and foremost, but she’s not in a huge rush to get somewhere else. She’s enjoying the days as they come, learning new skills as she goes, celebrating each success and milestone as a personal achievement, happy that she made the leap to start this business, and curious to see what will happen next. Ask yourself how you can build in a little time each day to just enjoy where you are in your business.