1. Recognise your worth and don’t let Imposter Syndrome get the better of you
Suzanne, co-founder of ClearTech Consulting Engineers put it plainly:
“I’m a non‑engineer in an engineering world. I suffered from a lack of confidence - some people call it imposter syndrome.”
Even with strong skills, it’s easy to feel “less than” in a technical or male‑dominated field. Suzanne’s turning point came when she invested time in personal development and support networks, which helped her see the value she brings.
Tip: Your background isn’t a barrier - it’s part of what makes your leadership unique and bringing a different skillset can be a real advantage.
2. Surround yourself with the right people
Both women emphasise the power of peer support. Suzanne said:
“The learnings, the support, the encouragement from the voices in that room had an enormous and positive impact on my mindset.”
And from Pauline Timoney:
“Most importantly, getting support in groups gave me my tribe. Those women are still the people I turn to, and I value them hugely.”
Tip: Build (and guard) a circle of people who lift you, challenge you and champion you.
3. Embrace structure - it turns ideas into momentum
For Pauline, the support programmes she took part in didn’t just provide motivation, they brought discipline:
“Entering the Seedcorn competition forced us to get serious: business model, financial forecasting, long-term strategy. It pushed us from excitement to structure.”
Sometimes the difference between an idea and a thriving business is a process, a plan or a framework.
Tip: Get serious early - with strategy, numbers and structure - and the momentum will follow.
4. Treat everyone with equal respect (including yourself)
Suzanne Healy reflected on conversations around equality:
“As a woman in business, I hear others talk a lot about equality. But we should remember we are each different and individual and that is fantastic. We should treat each other with equal respect. For me, that’s true equality.”
This mindset creates stronger teams, clearer communication and healthier working relationships.
Tip: Value strengths - yours and others - and build a business that embraces individuality - work to everyone's strengths.
5. Choose the right support at the right time
Opportunities come in many shapes, but timing matters. As Pauline Timoney put it:
“Different programmes suit different stages - choose the right one at the right time.”
Not everything is right for you now, and that’s okay. Progress is strategic, not rushed.
Tip: Match your stage to your support - early‑stage ideas need testing; scaling needs structure.
6. Trust yourself – you know your business better than anyone
RoutineRoo founder Pauline advises:
“Not everyone understands your business or your market as well as you do. Trust yourself.”
Confidence doesn’t always roar - sometimes it’s the quiet ability to listen to your own insight.
Tip: Seek feedback, but let your vision lead.
Final thought
Entrepreneurs like Suzanne and Pauline aren’t defined by the obstacles they’ve faced - they’re defined by the clarity, resilience and ambition with which they approach their work. Their journeys show that when women back themselves, support each other and step into the spaces that once felt intimidating, incredible things can happen.
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ClearTech Consulting Engineers is an award-winning structural engineering consultancy specialising in sustainable, net-zero civil and structural design innovation. Visit: www.cleartech.ie
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RoutineRoo is an online and physical tool that blends behavioural science, technology, and storytelling to help children feel empowered and parents feel calm. Visit: Routine Roo | Transform Routines into Fun!
