The predictive Ability of Career Counseling in Reducing Obstacles Faced by Women Entrepreneurs in Managing Small Enterprises in Jordan

Abstract

The study aimed to identify the obstacles faced by women entrepreneurs in managing their small enterprises and the predictive ability of career counseling in reducing these obstacles. A mixed-methods approach was employed, utilizing a quantitative methodology with a sample of 387 women entrepreneurs, and a qualitative methodology with a sample of 60 entrepreneurs. The results revealed various obstacles faced by entrepreneurs. Prominent psychological obstacles included significant tension when conducting large financial transactions, and fear of failure or competition. Social obstacles encompassed traditional family rejection of women's financial independence and the double burden of domestic and productive work. Regarding economic obstacles, key challenges included limited access to assets and resources, insufficient technical support for investing in new fields, marketing and distribution difficulties, and weak financial inclusion with limited access to financial services such as credit, insurance, and savings. The findings indicated that career counseling is an effective tool in reducing these obstacles. It contributes to providing financial and administrative knowledge, enhancing entrepreneurs' marketing and sales skills, and supporting strategic decision-making. Furthermore, it plays a vital role in boosting self-confidence and overcoming the fear of failure through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and developing skills like time management, teaching techniques such as the Pareto principle (20/80) and Pomodoro techniques.