Networking is a beautiful thing! I belong to several businesswomen’s professional groups, all of which have benefited me in one way or another. I have also been happy to return the favor and help others through these groups also. Women are natural networkers – we support each other, we learn from each other, we share our business trials and tribulations and we introduce people who might be able to do business together.
I belong to two local women’s business groups. SBPWN is the Smithtown Business & Professional Women’s Network. If you are a woman business owner, either living or working in the town of Smithtown (or even nearby!) come join us on the last Thursday of the month. We have guest speakers, seminars to help you with your business and always lots of networking and friendship. Another thing I really like about this group – there is always lots of community service involved – often to help other women who have undergone tragedies and are struggling to make a better life for themselves and their families. I am always thankful for the opportunity to help others – and at the same time, remember my own blessings.
The other business organization I belong to is SCWBEC, the Suffolk County Women’s Business Enterprise Coalition. This group was formed under the auspices of the Suffolk County Office of Affirmative Action and Minority Affairs. The main goal of SCWBEC is to break down the barriers to get women-owned businesses (WBEs) on the bid lists for County and other government agencies, and to make WBEs known to government and private industry. This does not really affect my business, as I don’t think many government agencies have jewelry in their budgets, but I go for the seminars, networking and friendships. We meet the morning of the second Thursday of each month. Ah! I almost forgot – this was also the group that gave me the motivation to write my Business Plan!
So join me at SBPWN and SCWBEC if you are local – if not, find your very own businesswomen’s group and join – it’s a win-win situation!
A summer's blend of aquamarine and pearls