In today’s digital world, email is more than just communication it’s your gateway to opportunity. Yet, many women entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals in Africa rarely check their inboxes. And because of that, they are missing out on real money, partnerships, and career advancement.
Let’s talk about why this habit must change — and how you can start winning by simply checking your email.
What You’re Missing When You Ignore Your Inbox
Here are just a few real examples of what women have lost because they didn’t open their emails on time:
- Speaking engagements and media interviews
A producer from a TV station or podcast reaches out — no reply in 3 days, they move on. - Grant and funding offers
A donor or foundation responds to your pitch and asks for your account details or supporting documents — no answer, funding goes to someone else. - Client inquiries
A client who saw your post or heard about your product sends a request for a quote — no response, they take their money elsewhere. - Job offers or professional invitations
A company invites you to an interview or collaboration — deadline passes without your reply.
In many of these cases, the difference between success and silence is as simple as checking your email daily.
“But I Prefer WhatsApp or Instagram DMs”
Social media is fast, but email is professional.
- Brands, corporates, media houses, embassies, and international partners will not DM you.
- They write formal emails because they want to work with serious people who can manage official communication.
- Email allows attachments, signatures, official tone — the kind of business documentation serious deals require.
If you ignore your email, you’re essentially telling high-level opportunities:
“I’m not ready for business.”
Quick Stats You Should Know
- Over 80% of international collaborations (grants, speaking, consulting, training) begin with an email
- On average, people check social media 5–10 times daily, but less than 2% of African small business owners check email once a day
- Many grants and accelerator programs only communicate via email
So while you’re scrolling through reels and memes, someone else is opening an email that could change their life.
How to Start Building the Habit
Checking your email doesn’t have to be stressful. Here’s how to make it a daily routine:
- Install the email app on your phone (Gmail, Outlook, etc.)
- Turn on notifications (or set a reminder at a fixed time)
- Schedule a 10-minute check each morning and evening
- Organize your inbox: Unsubscribe from junk. Create folders for Business, Opportunities, Clients, etc.
- Respond quickly — even if it’s just: “Thank you, I’ve seen this and will respond fully soon.”
Email = Business Readiness
Having a professional email and checking it regularly shows:
- You’re reliable
- You respect deadlines
- You’re ready for bigger platforms
- You can be trusted with business communications
If you’re building a brand, running a business, or looking to grow professionally, your email inbox is part of your reputation.
Final Word: Opportunity Doesn’t Wait
Imagine missing a call that could change your life. That’s what you do every time you ignore your email.
Be the woman who is ready. Be the woman who replies. Be the woman who gets the deal.
Action Steps:
- Add your email app to your home screen
- Check your email at least once a day
- Respond to important emails within 24 hours
- Use your email signature and write like a pro
Let’s normalize professionalism among African women one email at a time.
#CheckYourEmail #Just4WomenAfrica
