Celebrating more than 25 years of serving the women business owners of Phoenix
Fall 2012 • nawbophx.org
President’s Message Women Leading the Way
About NAWBO
NAWBO® prides itself on being a global beacon for influence, ingenuity and action and is uniquely positioned to provide incisive commentary on issues of importance to women business owners. NAWBO Phoenix propels women entrepreneurs into economic, social and political spheres of power. Visit one of our FREE welcome meetings, held the second Wednesday of each month – for all new and prospective members. This casual, informational opportunity highlights both local and national benefits of NAWBO membership. This is a great place to determine if NAWBO is a fit for you and your business. Take advantage of this great networking opportunity by bringing business cards and making connections. For more information, please visit NAWBOphx.org. Phoenix Metropolitan Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners 7949 E. Acoma Dr. #207 Scottsdale, Arizona 85260 480-289-5768 info@NAWBOphx.org
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Making the Most of Networking
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Why should a business owner join a professional association?
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Stronger Together
I believe, from my experience, not only within NAWBO, but through my work with women internationally, that today’s women leaders have extraordinary economic potential, which is further strengthened by their contributions to their communities who connect and collaborate for the inclusive success of all. I hope you enjoy their contribution this month! To your success,
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Be the Change You Wish to See in the Workplace and more...
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It is an honor and privilege to partner with InBusiness magazine and bring attention to the topic of connection and collaboration – this year’s theme of NAWBO Phoenix’s board. It isn’t a concept that is absent during other years, but there are poignant times where the focus on success is best shifted to the larger view of how and where we all fit together. We invite everyone who is ready and willing to travel together towards greater success. When NAWBO was started in Washington, DC 37 years ago, women did not have access to business capital. Womenowned businesses were something relegated to the kitchen or small neighborhood corner stores. NAWBO was started on the concept of connection and collaboration with the intent Lynda Bishop President, NAWBO Phoenix on making owning a strong, viable, sustainable and profitable business a reality for men and women alike. NAWBO National’s political involvement is instrumental in the passing of HR 5050, also known as the Women’s Business Ownership Act of 1988. This legislation was key in boosting women entrepreneurs’ access to capital. This directly led to a 30 percent surge in women-owned businesses in the country in the past two decades and led to the creation of the National Women’s Business Council, SBA Office of Women’s Business Ownership and the Women’s Business Center Program. This would not have been possible without connection and collaboration. There are so many ways to make connections and collaborate. The following articles address several avenues you can tap into to grow your business and at the same time help others grow theirs. You will see how connection and collaboration are put to work today to grow relationships, businesses, industries and communities. Through work with leadership development and mentoring of women-owned businesses, I have learned that women leaders are multipliers. They connect to others bringing as many as they can with them down the road of success. They use their power to empower others and the majority of successful women leaders share the following traits: • A clear vision and sense of purpose • Strong community roots • A desire to connect with others – even across dividing lines • Ability to take bold action and risks on their ideas • The fulfilled promise to lead the way for the next generation
Lynda Bishop NAWBO Phoenix Chapter President 2012-2013 lyndabishop.com
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Making the Most of Networking By Gloria Petersen
The purpose of networking is to expand your people base and make contacts who will grow your business or provide new career opportunities. Not all networking opportunities take place outside the office. Successful networking involves making internal, external, and virtual connections.
Gloria Petersen
Internal Networking
Internal networking is key to a successful career move. Every person in your department can provide beneficial information if you are alert, respectful, and friendly. So reach back and pull the next person in line forward. Everything you do to improve the effectiveness of another improves your own image within the company. Make the effort to meet those with whom you correspond by email or phone. Put the face with the name. Also, plan regular contacts with specialists in the important functional areas of your company (e.g., finance, marketing, IT). The more you learn about their responsibilities, the more effective you become in your position.
External Networking
The primary value of external networking lies in meeting people who represent a wide range of industries. The right venue for you to make connections depends on whether you prefer planned or spontaneous events. Planned networking works for people who prefer structure: an agenda, speakers, programs—and often membership requirements and dues. Spontaneous networking works for people who prefer to mix and mingle in a relaxed social environment and connecting with someone by chance and out of context. Networking should not be limited to your own industry. Try to commit to three types of networking opportunities: industry-related events, community support events, and social mixers. Add others as time allows.
Virtual Networking
Networking over the Internet, which can become a 24/7 obsession, brings people together from around the world. You have a lot of options. Choose wisely, protect your reputation, and follow the protocols established by the social media world.
In summary:
Whether in-person or online, people are looking for contacts and opportunities all the time—everywhere! We need both. Although social media networking tools have lowered the barriers for connecting, they cannot replace the real-life handshake that starts a friendship or business relationship internally or externally. Gloria Petersen is the author of The Art of Professional Connections: Success Strategies for Networking in Person and Online. You can learn more about her book series, seminars, and train-the-trainer opportunities at GlobalBusinessProtocol.com, gpetersen@globalprotocol.com, or calling 602-553-1045 (toll free: 866-991-2660).
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Why should a business owner join a professional association? By Dorothy Wolden
Dorothy Wolden
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You’ve heard the saying: “It’s all about connections.” Professional associations are the key to staying current in your field, developing your business acumen and making new connections. I know you’re thinking, “I’m too busy to join another group.” The thought of going to another meeting, or schmoozing with other professionals seems like just too much work. However, there are several reasons for joining a professional organization. In some
professions, it’s a requirement for licensing. Professional organizations offer benefits to their members, making it easier to do their jobs and solving common problems for members. Most importantly, joining a professional organization instantly associates you with the most serious people in the industry and adds to your credibility as a professional. Membership in a professional organization isn’t a luxury, it’s respected and important enough to be deemed as a legitimate tax write-off. Here are a few more great reasons to join a professional group: • Meet great, like-minded people • Showcase your experience through peer-to-peer discussions or public speaking. • Learn about industry and economic trends • Free or almost free training - most of the organizations have meetings focused on educational content • Increase others awareness of your company • Gets you thinking outside of the box • Discover what other companies are doing Just attending association meetings isn’t enough; you need to make the most of your time while your there. Here are some strategies to maximize your professional association membership. Some might seem obvious but rarely practiced: 1. Use and read the information gleaned from your professional newsletters. Information is a critical key in business development. Find out more about: • Hot topics and issues to be current • Know the key players (people and companies) • Vendors who might help you
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2. Have a strategy for attending the meeting. If you are shy, try to make this a time to go to a meeting with a friend 3. Pre-determine a goal for the meeting. “I am going to meet 2-4 new contacts.” Collect their cards. Write brief notes about them on the back to jog your memory. The notes could be both personal and professional in nature. 4. Get involved in the association on a deeper level. Join a committee. Most associations have a version of the following types of positions: • Program • Membership • Events • PR/Marketing/Outreach • Professional Development 5. Keep membership in a variety of related groups (in order to have a mix of ideas, personalities and companies). 6. Write an article if you feel you have some expertise. This catapults you into the role of expert. Professional memberships will always keep you fresh. Through professional associations, you will have an opportunity to learn and grow your business. Dorothy Wolden Creative Intuition • cistudio.com Years as a NAWBO member: 3 Years in Business: 10
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Stronger Together By Martha Knight
Building strong alliance programs with other companies allows everyone to reap the benefits. National Bank of Arizona is a perfect example of a company that has truly utilized alliances with other companies to the fullest. Martha Knight Stephanie Poure, Women’s Financial Group (WFG) Liaison for National Bank of Arizona believes alliance programs definitely help the community by strengthening the relationship between
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organizations. “WFG partners with fellow community organizations to host joint events, share referrals and provide support for one another,” she says. The NB|AZ Women’s Financial Group is a forum of professional women who join together to collaborate, network and succeed in finance, business and life through quality relationships and exclusive WFG events. The mission of WGF is connections, collaboration and community. “We value the connections we have made with our fellow community members and enjoy collaborating with them on events and projects,” says Stephanie. “We are also very involved in
giving back to our community. Since NB|AZ has a nonprofit banking niche, we always make sure to include a nonprofit in any of our events.” National Bank of Arizona utilizes some of its niche markets including Energy Link, Non-profit Banking and Women’s Financial Group to form some of its strongest alliances with other similar programs. There are a few simple steps you can take to begin forming alliances with other companies and organizations. 1. Asses your time – You need to decide how much time you have and are willing to put into a partnership. It can take time, but with effort, it will reap amazing rewards. 2. Do your research – Find out what is available to you in your area by contacting local women’s organizations, NAWBO, Chambers of Commerce and any industry specific organizations. 3. Get involved – Once you have found an organization who you think will be a great match to what you offer, then begin to get involved through volunteer opportunities, becoming a part of the board or becoming a corporate sponsor. 4. Stay consistent – Sometimes it takes a little while to build lasting relationships, so once you have decided on an organization or company it is important to stick with it for a period of time. The relationships grow with time, so be prepared to be consistent and show up on a regular basis. “Getting involved in your community is key to making a difference and networking with appropriate contacts,” says Stephanie. National Bank of Arizona is a presidential corporate sponsor with the National Association of Women Business Owners. Stephanie Poure is the Women’s Financial Group Liaison for National Bank of Arizona. For more information about National Bank of Arizona or its Women’s Financial Group program contact Stephanie at 602.212.6434. Martha Knight Arbonne International mknight.myarbonne.com Years as a NAWBO member: 2 Years in Business: 4
Be the Change You Wish to See in the Workplace By Katreena Hayes-Wood
The flood is eminent and lives are at stake. “The river is rising too fast. People are going to die if we don’t get those sand bags in place. How long do you think it will take?” asks the first man; “That depends,” answers the second man, “On how many people you choose to help.” Most of us participate in some version of collaborative achievement or in helping others, in Katreena Hayes-Wood some way, every day. However, when we make an intentional choice to use collaborative achievement in the workplace amazing things begin to happen. In my book, Dream Circles, How to Make Your Dreams Come True through the Power of Sharing, a Dream Circle is defined as any group of people who come together with the intention of helping one another achieve their dreams and goals. In a corporate model a DreamCircle™ is called a SuccessCircle™ and is used by team members to help one another to go “up stairs,” based on the idea that when I help you achieve what you want, I achieve what I want too. Collaborative achievement isn’t a new concept; it’s been around in the form of prayer circles, study groups, or group therapy for decades. People working together toward a common purpose achieve more. The challenge is not in knowing that collaborative achievement works, it’s in learning to
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step back from the ego’s need to be in control, which often prevents teams from achieving successful results. So how can we, as professionals, learn to make way for our team’s success? In one easy word: Choice! When we choose to take the higher road, to embrace and use our influence to effect positive change things become less complicated and goals are achieved. As you embark on a new project, attend a meeting, or approach a coworker, ask the following questions: 1. How can I help? 2. How can I serve? 3. How can I elevate a situation or those around me? Take a few minutes to review the choices available to you in the workplace. Is there an obvious area where you can contribute or help to elevate a situation? Perhaps you could offer to mentor a younger staffer or look for ways to recognize the efforts of co-workers. Collaborative achievement Katreena Hayes-Wood begins with a choice and a Career Services Network, LLC commitment to step up and CareerServicesNetwork.com be the best version of yourself Years as a NAWBO member: 1 possible; to be the change you Years in Business: 15 wish to see in the workplace.
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NAWBO PHOENIX Corporate Partners Presidential Corporate Partners National Bank of Arizona SRP Strategic Corporate Partner Alliance Bank of Arizona Presidential Media Partner Media88 Executive Corporate Partners Benefits by Design Kolbe Corp Larry Miller Toyota Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Prudential Insurance Company of America Newtek Technology Services Snell and Wilmer Southwest Gas Wal-Mart Strategic Media Partners KFNX Radio 1100 AM Creative Intuition NetworkingPhoenix.com Executive Media Partner Arizona Capitol Times CITYSunTimes Despins Printing Easel Photography In Business Magazine Money Radio 1510 AM Business Corporate Partners AmTrust Bank APS Bank of Arizona Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Border States Electric E&J’s Designer Shoe Outlet Orchard Medical Consulting Schmeiser, Olsen & Watts, LLP Wells Fargo
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Get social with NAWBO Phoenix Utilizing NAWBO’s social media presence not only allows you the opportunity to engage with fellow women entrepreneurs, but also find out what is happening at NAWBO Phoenix. Through our social media outlets, you can learn about upcoming events, speakers, mentorship opportunities, community service opportunities and more, while being able to engage in forums and other topics with NAWBO members. Whether you are a NAWBO member or not, you are able to follow us on Facebook and Twitter – for those of you who are not yet members, you may like what you see and want to join us! The benefits of NAWBO membership are abundant. NAWBO is also on Linked In, but is a private group for our members providing a place for collaboration and connections in a platform that allows members to connect beyond our events. You can find links to all of our social media accounts on our website at http://nawbophx.org or go directly to our Facebook account at http://www.facebook.com/NAWBOPhx and Twitter account at https://twitter.com/NAWBOphx.
NAWBO Board of Directors Executive Committee
Board of Directors
President Lynda Bishop Summit Alliance Solutions, LLC
Director of Communications/ Media Relations Martha Knight Arbonne International
President-Elect Jackie Wszalek Despins Printing & Graphics Finance Director Julie Kern, CPA, CFP, Bridge Financial Strategies Secretary Nancy Sanders Three Dog Marketing Immediate Past President Kristine Kassel Benefits By Design, Inc. Director of Administration Suzanne Lanctot NAWBO Phoenix Metro
Directors of Corporate Partners & Economic Development Amy Bruske, Kolbe Corp Kristine Kassel Benefits By Design, Inc. Director of Membership Services Magaly Masci Masci Wealth Management MSSB Director of Social Media Kristi Trimmer Orange Dragonfly Media Director of Programs Colleen O’Shaughnessy MetLife Program Co-Chair Kristin Slice Three Dog Marketing Director of Public Policy Ginger Lamb Arizona News Service/Arizona Capitol Times Awards Chair Jackie Wszalek Despins Printing & Graphics Award Co-Chair Katreena Hayes-Wood Career Services Network
Ambassadors Chair Phaedra Earhart Farmers Insurance Community Alliances/Diversity Chair Barbara Appenzeller, CPA, Appenzeller & Associate, CPAs, P.C Community Service Chair Melanie Dunlap, Peaceful Spirit Enrichment Center Events Chair Ginny McMinn McMinn Business Solutions Honorary Advisory Council Chair Cynthia Wrasman MJC Solutions, Inc. Mentor Program Chair Pamela Smith Numbers Etc. Mentor Program Co-Chair Cheryl Skummer Meridian Payment Systems NAWBO University Chair Dorothy Wolden, Creative Intuition Neighborhood NAWBO Chair Connie Zimmerlich, ClickChick Photography Retention Services Chair Joan Laubach Your Wealth and Health Women’s Enterprise Foundation (ex-officio) Jill Workman Wicked Wicker, LLC