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DECEMBER/JANUARY ISSUE
Founder & Editor in Chief Janine Garner | janine@littleblackdressgroup.com.au EDITORIAL Managing Editor Kate Stone| kate@glossmagazine.com.au Contributing Editors Melissa Browne Nikki Fogden-Moore Guest Writers Alicia Beachley Sarah Figgins Lee Ussher Renata Cooper Catriona Pollard Janine Garner ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES ads@glossmagazine.com.au EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES editorial@glossmagazine.com.au Published By: LBDG littleblackdressgroup.com.au MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRIES AND FEEDBACK www.littleblackdressgroup.com.au info@glossmagazine.com.au Š LBDG 2013 All material is strictly copyright and all rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission of LBDG is strictly forbidden. The greatest care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of information in this online magazine at time of going to press, and we accept no responsibility for omissions or errors.
A Message From Me issue of GLOSS. We hope that you missed us in November! As you will hear from our Managing Editor, Kate, November was a pretty trying month, but we are back with a bang in this very big seasonal issue which should carry you nicely into the holiday season. I personally hope that every single GLOSS reader out there is taking the opportunity to have a time out this Christmas - whether with family, friends or whoever is important in your life - take the opportunity for a deep breath and a pat on the back. This month’s issue focuses on a couple of things which are very pertinent to both the end of a long year, and the view forward to the start of 2014. We look at some amazing entrepreneurial partnerships, and how they have coped with what in many ways has been a bit of an ‘annus horribilis’ - 2013 was not kind to retail or starting new ventures, but those willing to put in that extra 5% really shone through. ground, rather than falling victim to the ‘it has to be absolutely perfect’ plague. As always Nikki Fogden-Moore looks after our bodies, just as Melissa Browne looks after our wallets - handy at this time of year, with both an excess of turkey and credit card transactions underway! You may get a little bit of an insight as to what it’s like behind the scenes at LBDG HQ on what it’s like to be in partnership in life and at work together. I didn’t edit his answers either - promise! with GLOSS is that it continues to inspire, challenge and interest you in terms of content. If there is a topic you would like to see addressed, let us know. If there is a contributor you particularly enjoy hearing from, again, let us know. This is a magazine for you. Help us to make it exactly what you want to read. A joyous Christmas and a happy 2014 to you all.
If you would like to write for GLOSS, or are interested in advertising with us, please contact us via editorial@glossmagazine.com.au
Contents A MESSAGE FROM ME
THE BOTTOM LINE
BODY & SOUL
A Message From Me
Contributing Editors/Writers
Events Calendar
Janine gives her run down on this month’s issue.
Find out more about our regular columnists and the expertise that they bring to GLOSS every month.
What’s on this month’s LBD schedule...
Press ‘Like’
In My Shoes
Alicia Beachley explains Facebook’s new friendly approach to competitons - for a given value of friendly
An incredibly frank account from Sarah Figgins of how she has left one passion behind for an even bigger one.
Two Men & A Boat How Adrian met Hish... Or something like that! There’s a yacht involved as well...
ARTICLES
NEWS & REVIEWS
LOIS LANE LIVES
Word Up
The Dynamic Duo
Talking To An Angel
it a good one -it needs to drive you for a whole year.
How Kate met Lucie... And how two amazing businesses came together to create an amazing collaboration.
Renata Cooper explains investment from the point of view of the invester and the investee.
The ABC of LBDG
Sponsor v Mentor
Lois Lane Lives
A look at what makes JG and JG Janine and Jason Garner - tick
What makes a good sponsor - and Janine takes a look at this often grey area of corporate life.
spiders, then Kate is your woman oh, or failing. Then she’s with you too. Read more here.
Contributing Editors
Melissa Browne
Nikki Fogden-Moore
Melissa Browne is an author, entrepreneur, business owner, and shoe & jumpsuit lover.
Nikki Fogden-Moore is all about practicing what she preaches – and what she preaches is balance. Balance between work, home and maintaining your personal best.
She has two successful, award-winning businesses - Accounting and Taxation Advantage & Business Advantage Coaching and is the author of the recently published to rave reviews business book, More Money for Shoes. Being an accountant, she understands the numbers but as an entrepreneur understands that numbers are only part of the story. She knows what it takes to achieve results that defy the trends and create incredibly robust, successful businesses . She is a tax expert with a particular passion for seeing small business owners develop A regular contributor to the Sydney Morning or visit acctaxadv.com.au
She uses nature as her playground – and wants all LBDG members to do the same. “Ultimately health, vitality and getting the most out of life do not have to be last on the list. It’s support that suit your own goals and needs. We are here to inspire, educate and help people stay motivated, with practical tools and information enabling them to make the best decisions for long term health and wellness – My motto: CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT” The owner of Life’s A Gym, Nikki is a motivational speaker, trainer and all round powerhouse who will help you to bring your body and soul together. Connect with her on twitter @nfogdenmoore or visit lifesagym.com.au
Guest Writers LEE USSHER Lee Ussher is a leading Australian Social Media Strategist whose social media knowledge is greatly valued and publicly sought after. She is interviewed regularly on radio and web TV, has featured in Australian & U.S magazines and is a requested writer for social media marketing articles published in Sydney newspapers and business media websites. Lee has been twice nominated for an Australian Telstra Women’s Business Award for her successful accomplishments in achieving business growth using dynamic and innovative online marketing strategies. Specialising in CEO reputation management, Lee has secured top 1% LinkedIn rankings for her clients, positioning them as industry leaders and exposing them to regular fresh leads and new business growth opportunities. A full extent of projects she has worked on can http://socialmediababe.com.au
ALICIA BEACHLEY Alicia Beachley is the CEO of April5, an independent and specialised promotional marketing activation agency. With 20 years industry experience, Alicia has managed a vast array of campaigns from million dollar sales promotions to new product launches and national retail and experiential events. Driven by a passion for delivering industry best practice and exceptional client service, Alicia has successfully established April5 as a world-class agency destination with a local feel. www.april5.com.au
RENATA COOPER Renata Cooper is a visionary entrepreneur and a founder and CEO of Forming Circles Pty Ltd, a unique Australian organization that is committed to providing opportunities for Australian individuals and groups in the areas of small business, education, arts, innovation, and charitable projects. In 2012 she also founded a Written Portraits – a writing competition for teenagers a Writing talent, and provide a creative platform for the expression of inner feelings and emotions associated with being a teenager. www.formingcircles.com.au
Guest Writers CATRIONA POLLARD Catriona Pollard is one of the Sydney PR scene’s leading movers and shakers. She founded CP Communications in 2001, after working in federal and state government, in-house and agency PR roles. A popular speaker and trainer, Catriona has over 20 years’ experience in developing public relations and social media strategies that engage both consumers and businesses. www.cpcommunications.com.au
SARAH FIGGINS Sarah Figgins was the visionary designer behind shoesales.com.au, the online shoe emporium. She has written an incredibly personal piece about her decision to walk away - on her own terms - from the business she has lived and breathed for the majority of her life.
Events FEBRUARY
FEB-APRIL 2014
1 2 3 4 5 6 EXCLUSIVE DINNER SERIES - SYDNEY 7 8 9 10 11 12 EXCLUSIVE DINNER SERIES - SYDNEY BUSINESS PLANNING MASTERCLASS - SYDNEY 13 14 15 16 17 18 EXCLUSIVE DINNER SERIES - MELBOURNE BUSINESS PLANNING MASTERCLASS - MELBOURNE 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 EXCLUSIVE DINNER SERIES - BRISBANE BUSINESS PLANNING MASTERCLASS - BRISBANE 28 29 30
Calendar MARCH
APRIL
EXCLUSIVE DINNER SERIES - SYDNEY
EXCLUSIVE DINNER SERIES - SYDNEY THINK TANK - SYDNEY
EXCLUSIVE DINNER SERIES - SYDNEY
BUSINESS VITALITY RETREAT - BRISBANE BUSINESS VITALITY RETREAT - BRISBANE BUSINESS VITALITY RETREAT - BRISBANE BUSINESS VITALITY RETREAT - BRISBANE EXCLUSIVE DINNER SERIES - MELBOURNE THINK TANK - MELBOURNE EXCLUSIVE DINNER SERIES - SYDNEY
EXCLUSIVE DINNER SERIES - BRISBANE
THINK TANK - BRISBANE EXCLUSIVE DINNER SERIES - MELBOURNE
Word Up Janine Garner
Earlier in December, Janine wrote a blog post called ‘Word Up’ as part of her regular columns for the LBDG website. The response from LBDG members and the general public alike was overwhelming. As a result, we have decided to include it in this month’s GLOSS - including with it some of the comments. Kate S.
“As names have power, words have power. Words The Name Of The Wind
Patrick Rothfuss,
In August last year, I wrote a post about words. time, which described you and your business philosophy; the word that summed up what drives you, your way of thinking, your way of doing and being. You may be fairly unsurprised to learn that mine was change-maker. And I think that I have been walking the talk fairly consistently since that blog went up – as have so many of the amazing women I am privileged and proud to know. But as we come to the end of 2013, I’d like all of you, as I am, to think about 2014 and what is to come with the new year; and for that matter, to have a look back at the year that has been. If you could choose a word to sum up the last 365 days, what would it be? More importantly How will you word up in 2014? many of the ways I wished to. For 2014, I have and yes, there is a word which sums that direction up. It is the link between my goals and aspirations, the way in which I wish to be perceived, with how I intend to achieve said goals. You may say ‘a single word can’t achieve goals for you’. And you would be correct in many ways. It is just a word, after all. Without planning, happen. But what that word does is give me a focus. It puts in front of me a tangible; because words do have power. They tell everybody else a little bit about you. They say ‘this is X. They see themselves this way – and yes, their actions match the word, so take them seriously’. are all words that may apply to where you want to be in 2014. Your word may simply be ‘happy’ – and it is up to you to work out what that ‘happy’ actually is. It may be that your version everyone else thinks it should be – and that could be where your journey lies.
Don’t be frightened to make your word a strong one. You are strong, otherwise you wouldn’t women of worth. You are changing the game on quo; you want to be the best, and to help others to achieve what is best for them. So word up. Find your own jumble of what will be meaningless letters to anyone else – but to been’ and ‘I will be’ in 2014. As your mother may have said… Use your words! PS: If you were wondering… mine is GROWTH. Onwards and upwards!
“I love having a word to focus on. For 2013 it was ‘Transformation’. Something we achieved with our rebrand (and subsequent Sydney Design Award win). Our word for 2014 is ‘Collaboration’ which we plan to live and breath through the launch of The Creative Fringe. Very exciting times ahead!” “In 2013 my word was certainly GRATEFUL … I don’t think I had felt truly grateful for a long time … it feels amazing to be able to say I am grateful everyday!!!! In 2014 my word is ACTION, There is so much I am going to to achieve in 2014! Out goes procrastination and in comes Action!” “Thank you Janine – I didn’t have a word in 2013 and Watch out 2014 JC has a word RESULTS!”
The Dynamic Duo Kate Stone
We often read about business partnerships or collaborations between designers – the women behind
Haven’t you secretly wondered what really goes on when two women get together and work on a top-secret project? Well, we were privileged enough to be a part of the process when Kate Sutton of Uberkate, the gorgeous bespoke jewellery line, celebrating her tenth year in business, and Lucie Trinco of Il Tutto, the award winning international baby bag, handbag and accessories designer, sat Lucie has just had her third baby, Luella, and released two new gorgeous sell-out bags – the Frankie, a baby change bag which is more rock star than school run, and the limited release Mia, impeccably stylish and chic. As she says, that’s three new babies in one year! Kate is not only celebrating ten years of Uberkate, but also her 40th birthday, her tenth wedding anniversary, and the release of Ubermemories, a new product line which celebrates your life’s line – time, which hang from double sterling silver bracelets. Kate and Lucie have known each other for a little while now, so our Q&A that we put to them has admiration which these incredibly talented women show for each other is clearly evident.
KATE: I spotted Lucie at a Baby Expo wearing an Ubercircle her hubby had bought her after the birth
KATE: Lucie and I think in a similar way - our design aesthetic is similar, and a few years ago we started throwing around ideas for jewellery to go with the Il Tutto brand. We almost did a key ring together a few years ago, but I'm so happy it didn't happen, as what we have come up with now is far superior! LUCIE: We have been talking about it for years – we feel our products are interlinked and share a for Christmas!
KATE: I admire Lucie's determination, her authenticity, and her beautiful nature. I admire her as a businesswoman who has singlehandedly built such an incredible brand. I also admire her as a mum who - and I admire her style! I would love to spend an afternoon in her wardrobe… LUCIE: I admire Kate’s creativity, her sense of fun and her business prowess.
KATE: In one word - effortless. We both have complete trust in the other’s designs, and each time we spoke, or sent each other samples, the process just got more exciting.
LUCIE: It was lots of fun; it was basically like getting together with your best girlfriend and throwing ideas around about what we could do that was special and unique to both of our brands.
KATE: For me, Lucie brought colour and attention to detail… (the zipper detail on the design, for example, is gorgeous!) She knows her Il Tutto woman and luckily for both of us the “Il Tutto woman” and the “Uberwoman” have a lot in common! LUCIE: Our skill sets are so aligned, that it was mostly a matter of selecting just one idea from so many fantastic options. As I largely work on my own as a designer, it was a wonderful change to work with another creative and inspiring person. The energy that comes from that is amazing.
KATE: Mostly that working with another creative person is a joy. When you click with another designer, whom you just happen to love as a person, the fun in designing is doubled! LUCIE: I learnt that my design approach is quite structured and formal which comes from my time working in the corporate design world. It was something I hadn’t actually realised before – Kate’s approach is quite different and we really complemented each other.
KATE: Collaborations - big yes. I guess our reason for doing one was simply to work together customers, so if you work with someone else who is equally passionate, it can only be a good thing.
KATE: I think being offered a collaboration from two brands that you love is of course a win/win for Il Tutto and Uberkate (and Lucie and I personally) but mostly a huge win for our clients. LUCIE: If you are working with the right brand and are able to offer your customers something unique and aspirational and not normally available, then absolutely yes. But it has to be the right collaboration work with Kate! Uberkate clientele – as you can see from the accompanying images, Kate and Lucie have imagined something, as Lucie put it, ‘unique and aspirational’ – and totally gorgeous. Fans of both labels have been enjoying purchasing an Il Tutto coin purse in turquoise, fuchsia, rose or tan, with an gold or rose gold at a RRP of $149.
they wanted to give their customers but recognised that the time was right for a key collaboration. are savvy, stylish and love what they do.
LBDG’s First Seeds Fund brings together its members and friends to support the lives of women and children with a focus on education and employment. We are currently funding an educational scholarship and programmes supporting Year 6 to Year 12 children in the disadvantaged NSW community of Warwick Farm. “The power of the First Seeds Fund comes not in the strength of the individual but through collaboration, the creation of a singular strong voice the First Seeds Fund. “Together we can all become architects of change.”
Talking To An Angel: The Art Of Investing Renata Cooper
If you are a budding entrepreneur, Australia is one of the best places to be. Our entrepreneurial ecosystem has been ranked in the top quartile of Ernst & Young’s G20 Entrepreneurship Barometer 2013 report. The news is better if you are a woman as Australia has been ranked as the second best place in the world to be a woman entrepreneur in Dell’s genderfocused entrepreneurship index, the Global Entrepreneurship and Development Index
Slovakia with $20 in my pocket, I wanted to support causes that helped shape my career and personality. This passion gave me direction and stability. There are many cases of people investing in a good business plan only to lose interest after a while. •
Take risks and disrupt the landscape: The markets and industries are evolving at a phenomenal pace. To stay ahead of the game, businesses will have to adopt disruptive innovation methodologies. It is easy to trial a better concept of an existing product but nerve racking to do something that has no case study. Unfortunately, there is no magic formula to this approach – only trial and error.
•
Most angel investors do follow trends and the current one is tech start-ups as they are leading the way in innovation and disruptive technology that replaces the old with new. If you aren’t investing in innovation that possibly hasn’t been in the market previously, you will not be part of the change when it happens. This is particularly challenging for women as we are usually risk averse. Be the disrupter, not the disruptee.
Globally, women have been forecast to add $6 trillion in additional earned income over the next
These factors give risk averse women the most conducive environment to either become an entrepreneur and set up their own business or invest in someone else’s business. However, some women who do have a keen interest in entrepreneurship tend to get overwhelmed by the laborious task of setting up and managing their own business. The concept of investing in another business or • going down the path of angel investments has traditionally been associated with men. This is slowly changing. Women are capitalising on open markets, innovation and progress to investing their wealth and resources into other businesses. Women angel investors are the new breed mapping the entrepreneurial landscape. • For women who are interested in investing in a business, here a few pointers to consider: •
Blend your passion with the business idea: When you start talking money, you will have people coming out of the woodworks trying to convince you to invest in their venture. While most ideas will be good, you will only be able to navigate the rush by identifying what you are passionate about at the outset. Match your passion to the business idea and not the other way around. When I started Forming Circles, I did so to support female entrepreneurship and literacy as these causes were close to my heart. Having come to Australia as a refugee from
Crowdsourced funding: If you are donating only a portion of the funds to support the business, encourage the entrepreneur to consider crowdsourced funding opportunities. Websites such as Pozible and Kickstarter are great for this. The crowdfunding premise is based on the fact that people who fund the project connect with it more meaningfully and like something to the opening or get them to contribute to the script, if products then give people free samples, if a service then discounts or acknowledgments on websites and social media – the opportunities are endless and not necessarily expensive.
•
Crowdsourced funding has the added advantages of extending your personal or brand footprint through multiple touch points and introducing you in advance to potential clients. In the initial stages of setting up Forming Circles, our challenge was to get maximum awareness on limited budgets. If we had $50,000 to spend, we’d evaluate to
see if it was best used in advertising / direct marketing or investing in a cause that would get •
Work the digital media: Social media is the new word-of-mouth and social footprint is the new brand equity. For start-ups that are cash tight, social media provides the best platform to communicate with stakeholders, communities and consumers with the most up-to-date information. Explore the possibilities and get the business to construct a cohesive social media strategy from start. This seems obvious in this day and age. But many new businesses fail to capitalise on digital platforms to their convenience due to wariness, lack of understanding or because they think it isn’t relevant to their business. In addition to showing the personality of the brand, digital and social media attracts like-minded followers. For new companies, this pool of followers is the research goldmine that can be used to test new ideas and thoughts.
This article was originally published in Women’s Agenda.
Two Men And A Boat: Collaboration & Counting Coastline Kate Stone
before that issue, but it certainly is now! Adrian is currently undertaking a photographic essay of the Australian coastline by yacht under the name of Picture the Coast – something never done before. Adrian and his business partner in the wonderful new boy’s own adventure, Hish Fernando what makes their entrepreneurial relationship tick – and work.
I think it’s understanding an opportunity to connect with someone who has the ability to embodies this. I saw the chance to do something interesting, and Adrian was a big part of that.
ADRIAN – I think one of the things that Hish said at the very start of the project was that he was not going to learn about sailing, or photography – they were my things. Everything else, he happens on the boat is my responsibility, the business side is Hish’s’ really works. I pick up about HISH – we have similar personalities, and that’s actually been part of the success story which is unusual. And it has only worked because we have stuck to our boundaries. Usually my team consists of complementing personalities, but working with someone who is so much like me has meant a shift in work methods. If we had both been on the boat – to be honest, it probably wouldn’t have worked. We are both aiming for success – bottom line. I also don’t think I will ever get on the boat... ADRIAN – I will get you on the boat! HISH – I’ll stand there and um, sail?
HISH – I think I asked Adrian the question ‘do you know how many beaches Australia has?’ to which the answer was ’10,688’ ADRIAN - 10,685. HISH – 10,685 – see, lucky he is in charge of the nautical miles! It was on the bottom of a stubby years ago or something like that and I have always kept that piece of trivia in the back of my head. And I have always wondered why nobody has photographed them all as a panoramic view. Luckily for us, no-one else has had the same thought! Also I was doing the whole ‘Adrian, let me explore the inside of your head’... and this is what came out in the end. A bit of ‘I’ve got it’. We had no idea how we were going to do it, but we knew we were going to do it. ADRIAN – Hish was very much ‘what do you like doing?’ and when he had, as he says, burrowed around in my head, we somehow came up with this idea. After a weekend thinking about it, we
ADRIAN – Hish was very much ‘what do you like doing?’ and when he had, as he says, burrowed around in my head, we somehow came up with this idea. After a weekend thinking about it, we realized the idea still had legs – and we started working out the logistics.
HISH - The cons are keeping the momentum going – but in terms of pluses, it is now cemented in the public perception. We have managed to get some fabulous publicity in the pilot stages which is great, but the media are always hungry for more. ADRIAN - In terms of the venture, the cons are needing a bigger boat now we have moved from the pilot stage to the main stage of the trip – trying to plan the route in terms of weather conditions for various parts of the country; keeping family and the skipper motivated, keeping everyone informed. On the pro side – it’s an absolutely awesome project! It’s such a buzz.
far down the line. project – just how much remains to be seen. But it is an exciting path.
ADRIAN – I can’t believe I have to do this without any warning... 5 words or less? Really? Describe him in 5 words or less...
HISH – see, copying me!
is a man, who if I said ‘I want to photograph every crater on the moon’ would just say ‘go do it’. for everyone else. It’s beyond altruism.
Press ‘Like’ If You Well, ‘Like’ This... Alicia Beachley
In what will be seen as a welcome move by many who run online promotions, Facebook has done away with the requirement that promotions and contests can only be administered within 3rd party apps. Its updated rules allow businesses to run promotions and competitions on their Facebook page’s Timeline, with no requirement for an app. While Facebook was built on the ability to tag and like things, when it came to promotions, that was a big no go area. They didn’t want you using ‘likes’, ‘shares’, ‘tags’ and ‘wall posts’ - and if you broke the rules, they could take down your page. To run a promotion, you had to use 3rd party app – until now. Yes, Facebook may have loosened the rules, but the Permit Authorities certainly haven’t so it’s important that brands and companies remain diligent or they run the risk of facing huge problems and perhaps even larger legal battles. What’s changed? Now you have a choice. You can administer promotions on page Timelines or in apps on your business Facebook page. You can collect entries by having users post on the page, comment on or like a post, message the page. You can now use ‘likes’ as your voting mechanism. Something else that is new is that you can pay Facebook to promote your competitions. Now that you can create competitions based around a post, you can pay Facebook to “boost it” like you can with any other post. You can’t run promotions on personal Timelines though, and Facebook also prohibits tagging or encouraging people to tag themselves in content that they are not actually depicted in, in order to win a prize.
Facebook says the change is all about “making it easier for businesses of all sizes to create and administer promotions” on Facebook. Will it? The change will certainly help small businesses in particular, making it easier to host promotions. It will be faster and simpler to get a competition or promotion up and running because you won’t have to wait on a designer or developer to create an app for you. That means nimble brands will be able to
respond quickly to trends and opportunities. limit the amount of data you can collect to use beyond Facebook in other marketing initiatives. Drawing Facebook ‘likes’ and comments are great, but being able to leverage intelligence from your Facebook audience in broader promotions and marketing initiatives is where apps will still deliver Another plus of the update is your promotions can now reach a bigger audience – but that also could broader the audience you reach, the greater the chance of exposing your business and brand to negative and damaging comments. I suggest you have a plan to deal with this. So, while there is more freedom, before you rush out and start running promotions on Facebook, make sure you have considered the legal aspects such as Terms and Conditions and Permits, etc. If you are running chance to win promotions, for example, you are governed by State Lottery and Permit Boards nationally and you need to comply with their strict rules and regulations. Terms and Conditions are required for all promotions whether they are game of skill or game of chance. It is important to keep across Facebook’s changes relating to promotions but it is also vital to keep abreast of the legal requirements as they go hand in hand when running online promotions. You can read Facebook’s announcement here: https://www.facebook.com/facebookforbusiness/ news/page-promotions-terms and Facebook’s new promotion guidelines here: https://fbcdn-dragon-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-as
In My Shoes Sarah Figgins
Have you ever experienced one of those ‘lightening bolt’ moments, when you know with every inch of your being, that your life is never going to be the same? I had this very moment, as a young, shy 22 year old
dreamt shoes. Our life was always centred on ‘the shoe’. We welcomed three beautiful girls into our world, over three consecutive years. These most precious blossoms altered our married unison to that of a family.
had just met my ‘solemate’ face to face. My obsession with shoes had bought me to this exact moment. My childhood fascination with my Mum’s high heels to my
In 2009 the company fell vulnerable to the
of Figgins fashion footwear boutiques. An this company had me defer my university degree and I set my shoe ambitions to teetering heights. My buying career unfolded rapidly as I devoured everything in a hungry frenzy. Commencing my training in ShooBiz, to stepping my unique heels into the quirky Mollini chain and then the exquisite designer boutiques, Evelyn Miles. Finding my stride I added the sublime Midas chain to my belt shoes, travel, deadlines and schedules. A for a Gucci appointment, spending days in Spain developing exclusive collections, attending shoe fairs and more shoe fairs, sharing a café au lait with Walter Steiger in Paris, talking shoes with Brian Attwood in his Milan studio and even sharing a cab with Manolo Blahink in London. My heels had certainly reached dizzy heights! My enchanted shoe tale was catapulted into a whirlwind romance with my very own the tragic death of his father, the late Don Figgins, had taken the helm of the company. That look all those years before, that look that made my feet shift and caused an obvious blush in my cheeks, that look of most perfect glass slipper to my foot. I married my shoe prince. We successfully managed and grew the Figgins legacy from 60 outlets to 192 retail outlets. We lived, breathed, slept and
compromised with faltering sales, increasing poor business decisions. In early 2010, as much as we tried to avoid it, administrators stepped in. My family was devastated. It was heartache of losing a third generation family business, ravaged our sense of honour. Life as we knew it spiralled out of control. my arms right around my family, held them tightly and slipped my toes into a brand new pairs of shiny heels. Digital heels! ShoeSales.com.au was born, co-founded with an IT wizard, my business partner Steve Zed. We pioneered an engaging online fashion boutique showcasing fabulous, exclusive, fashion shoes. Merging my sassy design skills with his online expertise, ShoeSales launched successfully into the online marketplace. Over a period just short of three years we created a user friendly, secure shopping site. We debuted exclusive collections and styles and delivered our audience. Our database grew rapidly with ‘out of the box’ strategies and our social mediums exploded. Our small and dedicated team remained focused on an exceptional standard of customer service. This passion married with my design philosophy of designing shoes to make women feel fabulous, saw the model blossom. It blossomed as a result of sheer hard work, sleepless nights and our unwavering dedication to our vision. In August of this year I was working through our updated business plan, along with our
brand and marketing strategies with an amazing business mentor. The business had clearly demanded me! Overwhelmed by the opportunities, the requests, the possibilities and the timelines, my kindly business manager placed his hand on my arm and asked ‘Is this really what you want Sarah?’ This question caught my breath. All I had known was the shoe arena! I sat rooted to my chair, watching a mental slide show of my entire career. The travel, the endless hours in the factory in China, the nights I had fallen asleep over my laptop, the lows and the highs of building a new business from scratch. I then saw the blue eyes of my I could vividly see the shame on my middle daughter’s face, as I escorted her 20 minutes late into her cello performance. A silent tug of war between motherhood and career, that I met my ‘solemate’ - was an epiphany for me. So, in October of this year, after a two decades of cobbling, I made the decision to hang up my designer heels.ShoeSales.com.au will go on in a new, re-invented direction under the guidance of my partner; it will be a mecca of shoe brands and shoe sales. Stay tuned! had of me, and that of my family. My journey will not end here. I take a leap of faith from here, from all that I know – a leap into brand new horizons. I spread my wings, wings that are embroidered with learning, lessons and rich experiences, wide in anticipation for this
The ABC of LBDG The Two Js Kate Stone
I consider myself very fortunate in what I do; not only do I get to write for a living, but I amounts of respect for. There may also be a little bit of mischief involved when it
corporate. She had to grow - she was disenfranchised with what she was seeing in that world, and she was having trouble with seeing how she could meet the needs of her family and her own personal needs. So, whilst I was worried and a little bit supportive of that move. my own business, despite I think being secretly petrifed about a sudden loss of a very substantial income! He has always backed me to the hilt when it comes to my dreams.
about resources, and as a bouncing board - and as a operational source. In terms of of people; she takes ideas and grows them, but she also connects people to solutions - and I think the main attraction is that LBDG is a grown-up business network which
depend on him for operational perspective and advice. Sometimes I just need him to acumen or another pair of eyes on a complex proposition. He is very much the yin to my yang at times in terms of the way I view how LBDG should evolve, and he keeps me sane!
so whilst there are corporate boundaries, I share that space to a certain extent. I think it’s actually part of my coping mechanism for corporate in fact that I do get that
valuable and I would love to be able to have a true work partnership.
in where there’s a gap; it’s very much a partnership, and with a busy lifestyle and three children it’s all about pitching in together. it comes to kids and making things work in a household. Things just have to happen. We pick up the slack and tag team.
her success.
How To Use Social Media When Business Is Changing Lee Ussher
of another often stirs ideas of new beginnings, change and growth. However, as a business owner the fear of transforming or reshaping a business can conjure thoughts of decreased business. But, launching a new business model and refreshing current services can create quite the opposite if a good communication and marketing strategy is implemented. Any business expansion or change means hard work, but unlike starting a business from scratch, the hard work this time can be aided by a tool belt of powerful business building tools. They are: 1. business experience, 2. 3. a trusted network of business mentors or advisors, 4. a loyal group of regular customers who trust you, and the BIG ONE... 5. an online network - your email list and social media following who are waiting for a reason to become your customer! areas to successfully launch a new area of your business, especially the last three. Because what ultimately drives the success of marketing a new business idea is the spreading of word via the trusted business relationships already established. Most of this communication can form part of your online marketing strategy. Sharing plans to shift your business in a new direction with online marketing and social media means you are providing your mentors, customers and business supporters with direct content from you. This helps them clearly understand what your business is doing as it transforms from one direction to another and gives them easy access to information to share and help you spread the word. So using online marketing resources such as blogging, email newsletters and regular social media posts is one of the simplest and best ways to communicate your business plans to all the people in your networks. It can easily be the information that reinforces potential customers to use your service too. business is to communicate your business ideas
with mentors. Take advantage of private group settings in Facebook or LinkedIn to brainstorm and gain their feedback to create a business plan. Next step is to communicate the business changes with current customers and start to publicly market them to your target audience. Methods to share information with current customers are via email systems, and publicly by posting on social media accounts. Not only will the communication strengthen the message that you are willing to invest in change to meet your customers growing needs, but it deepens their understanding of the changes to more easily adopt your new business model. The deliberation to reshape your business and formulate a strategy to implement is not a decision made overnight. In order to successfully transform and expand your business, the strategy focus should be how well and often you communicate with those who make your business successful. That is your network of mentors, customers and believers. The strength in using public channels to communicate your business transition means you run a lower risk of: • • •
diluting your brand, your marketing message and losing customers or followers.
In fact, by regularly sharing that ‘change is in the air’ across multiple public channels with the people you have relationships with, will actually do quite the opposite. By communicating the direction of your business growth & expansion openly you will easily start to see your business talked about more, followed more and as a result a converted increase of customers. This is because you are new and INVOLVING the people that matter the most to you. The increase in the ‘buzz about your business’ is because people like to naturally belong to a community, know we all matter to others and business leaders and networks with positive, passionate thinking. With the evolution of the internet to
follow – or become one. There’s a reason why people follow Barack Obama, Richard Branson, Steve By using the internet in the form of email marketing, blogging, guest article writing and building relationships on social media you can turn your fresh business directions into a marketing advantage to reinforce who you are and what you do and potentially become a game changer online. I believe there are two key things that guarantee successful business growth, and when married with social media and online marketing to strongly reinforce them, the success is that much greater. to adapt and change continuously to meet the ongoing needs of your customers and targeted audience. So if you are at a crossroad in your business, know it is normal and know you have the internet to communicate easily with your current customers and potential clients so the transition is smooth and easily adopted by them. Secondly, understand the greatness of your business is based on the strength of your relationships with your business networks, and the message you continuously deliver to them. Using social media as a two-way conversation and not just an automated ‘information portal’ means marketing your new business direction will be much more powerful because there will be many conversations about you. Social media and online marketing are great communication and marketing resources when deciding to reshape your business and take your network on a new journey. The business leaders who understand using these resources to nurture the relationships they have, will stand out in these online spaces as the next generation’s game changers. I hope you consider yourself among them.
PR Resolutions Catriona Pollard
The start of a new year has always been a time for looking back to the year gone and more importantly, forward to the year ahead. It’s a and make promises to yourself to actually do something about them this year. So what are
business New Year resolutions?
This year why not introduce or revamp your public relations strategy for your business. Here are our suggestions for your New Year PR resolutions for 2014. 1. Embrace Social Media 2014 is the year to embrace social media fully. Social media allows your business to engage, listen, share and exchange ideas with customers or clients in new ways. To embrace social media in 2014 I suggest you clients are on social media and joining them there. If you are already on social media, make sure your business has a social media strategy, that you are measuring and evaluating what is working, and that you are continually optimising your channels. 2. Network Networking is an important factor that should be implemented to help you progress in your business and career in 2014. Approximately 75 percent of new business is acquired through referrals or relationship building. Sometimes it’s not what you know, but who you know. 3. Write an Article Distributing media releases is just one way of getting media coverage. You can also write an
Many publications are stretched for resources and welcome well written articles. You can write an article that positions you as an industry
Ensure it is written in an objective, informative and entertaining manner. Make sure your article is free from blatant advertisement or advertorial. Research which publications your potential clients read, or simply pitch to your major industry publications. This will put you on the path to expert status in your industry in 2014. 4. Update your website Search engines like Google like new, valuable content on websites. Websites which are regularly updated are seen to be providing more timely and relevant information to their visitors. Therefore you should make a resolution to update your website regularly in 2014. The more content you add, the fresher your site is and the more chance your site will rank highly in search results. Adding a blog or news section to your website is a great way to create a channel for fresh content. Share your business’ latest achievements, media releases, award wins, survey results, opinion pieces and tips. 5. Get customer or client testimonials Potential customers or clients love to read positive things about your business and are much more likely to believe a testimonial that praises your product or service then they are to believe your sales copy. Include positive testimonials on your website or marketing collateral to portray your business as an expert and win new business. Set aside some time in 2014 to either ring or email your customers or clients to ask if they would mind writing a brief testimonial. If they are short for time, ask them quickly to explain what they most like about your service or Remember resolutions are only powerful if you make them happen!
Sponsor v Mentor:
Janine Garner
Often when we hear the word ‘sponsor’, we don’t immediately relate it to business and the achievement of goals. Many women would think of it in terms of charity – helping a child overseas, planting trees. But for men, the age, they are actively inducted into the whole world of sponsorship. Sports teams. Clubs. Using the old boys’ network to give encouragement in some shape or form. In the past, women simply haven’t had access to this kind of short-cut through the ranks. The focus has been on mentoring – and yes, this is successful on many levels. But it does have its limitations, and sponsoring needs to become more of a focus across the corporate arena and in entrepreneurial circles. and mentoring? The easiest way to look at it is in terms of commitment. Mentoring tends to take a softly softly approach; catching up for chats, inviting mentorees to big networking events. It’s more about giving advice and listening to concerns than saying ‘yes, I will help you gain X’. Often mentors and mentorees are put together without the connector thinking about whether they will engage well – and this is vital. Sadly some mentors see the talent of their mentoree as a threat and this can end up in not only bad business practice, but personal trouble as well. Sponsoring on the other hand is a large obligation – but the results for those being sponsored are usually far greater than when mentored. Usually sponsorship is from someone senior within the sponsoree’s own company, or The sponsor needs to be willing to actively put their sponsoree forward for new opportunities or positions. For those who are looking to sponsor, there needs to be an understanding of the following: •
The time commitment involved – this is about giving of oneself and sharing knowledge and resources;
•
A willingness to advocate on their protégées’ behalf, connecting them to important players and assignments;
•
An understanding that as a sponsor, they will not only give advice and listen; they will actively seek out opportunities for advancement for their sponsorees.
For those wishing to be sponsored, there are important points to bear in mind too: •
This is a two way street. Stellar performance is expected because let’s face it, your sponsor is going to go the extra mile for you in terms
•
Your sponsor is, without being cynical, looking for some kind of return on their investment. You have to make them look good, because they are endorsing you to a very high degree. As Kerrie Peraino, Global Head of Talent at American Express says, “Trust is at the heart of this relationship… when I put my faith in up-and-coming talent and become their sponsor, I need to know I can totally depend on them — because they are, after all, walking around with my brand on.”
parties in terms of sponsoring versus mentoring. The person being sponsored gets practical help, not just advice, in terms of their career advancement – and the person sponsoring has potential to become a valuable resource in their own arena or business. Breaking through the old boys’ network is never going to be easy. But does sponsoring give
Inside the Corporate Dojo: The Gatelys Kate Stone
Karen and Kevin Gately have the most extraordinary relationship. I don’t say this lightly. For me, Karen is one of the most inspiring people – not just women – I have ever met. But after about two minutes in Kevin’s company, I would have to say that he is possibly the calmest person I have ever met. This is something he has consciously worked on, he says, and is a direct result of one of the major passions in his and Karen’s lives: Karate. Both
Kevin and Karen are both Directors of the HR solutions and corporate assume his name is Ryan never fails to amuse. ‘Sometimes I don’t bother to correct them, because it’s simply not worth it’, he says with a wry grin. ‘It’s actually pretty amusing’. very upbeat and charismatic style. How do the two travel together in the corporate space? ‘I think I act as a sort of neutraliser when Karen is very worked up about something; she is a very passionate, caring individual and sometimes that passion means she feels far too much – it takes a lot out of her on a daily basis. Sometimes, because I am a bit more laid back and look at things more dispassionately, it helps her to have a more objective viewpoint’. Does Karen agree with this? overload of feeling’. Kevin in many ways takes a back seat in the business, with Karen as the public face. Does this ever cause friction with the couple? ‘No not at all’ is the reply from both sides, immediately. Kevin is very clear on this. ‘It was very much my choice to sit back with Ryan Gately. I have absolutely no desire to be looked at or to be the ‘voice’ of what we do. Karen is the charismatic half of this partnership; I very much enjoy being the support crew. It works for us.’ Karen agrees strongly.
it may not be for everyone but it has been successful for a long time – if it isn’t broken, as they say...’ Kevin says, that like any partnership which is pretty much 24/7, of course there is friction, but they both know the pressure points and how to reach resolution quickly. each other’s buttons, but sometimes that is part of how we resolve things’. What are the secrets, I ask, to a personal and business partnership continuing to work year after year? The response from both is immediate and unwavering. Trust. Respect. Communication. Understanding. Good intentions. Follow through. Willingness to make concessions. The similarity of answers showed me two things; one, why this partnership works – and two, what great teachers Kevin and Karen would be in Karate terms. All of these things can so easily be applied outside of the corporate arena. A truly balanced business.
Money Talks:
You Don’t Need To Be Perfect Melissa Browne
Twelve months ago, on 28 Money for Shoes was launched. Now writing a book is a big deal for anyone but this book is also a little Money for Shoes was launched. Now writing a book is a big deal for anyone
For those of you that haven’t heard of my book, it’s an illustrated, full-colour business book that has been written for women in business. I talk about my own business, my wardrobe, Spanx, my a business is just like building a wardrobe.
Now in my other life I’m an accountant that owns a successful accounting and business advisory Not the most creative profession perhaps. Yet I’ve always tried to push the envelope and have a real crack at being a game-changer in my industry instead of just talking about it. The problem for me lay exactly three months before that launch date. That’s because there comes a point when you’re writing a book where you need to stop tweaking, stop making changes and press Go to send the book away to be printed. And it’s terrifying. I remember everything in me wanted to take another week, another look, another read through and to stall
my business, set up a second location, created created products, written a book and grown exponentially. It has allowed me to implement rather than procrastinate. What I’ve discovered through dealing with hundreds of business owners over the years business and a great business is the willingness of the business owner to implement new ideas and the courage to create a business that is Yes you need to plan, budget, analyse and do your research. I’m an accountant so I understand this preliminary work is essential. But often once you’re 80% there it’s simply time to press go. tweaked, changed and adjusted. But unlike my book, there will usually be the opportunity to make those tweaks, changes and adjustments down the track. What you can’t do is make those changes if you never press go to begin with.
be perfect.
My question to you as we head into a new
The problem is it will never be perfect. There will always be a line I could change or a colour I could tweak or an illustration I could adjust. However the cost of collecting all the books that have been distributed, making the changes and reprinting would be exorbitant, not to mention ridiculous.
in your business because you’re worried it’s not perfect? Or similarly, what leap are you not taking because you’re worried you’re not good enough? Sometimes in business and in life once you’ve done all the research, the budgets, the analysing and weighing-up you simply need to have the courage to press Go, knowing you can deal with the 20% along the way.
The same is true for so many business owners or would-be-business-owners that I meet. Sure they might not have written a book but many have incredible ideas of things they want to do within their business – services, products, in corporate and dream of changes they can make, or jumping ship and creating a business that would run according to their design. The problem is too often they are waiting for the perfect moment or they are trying to make sure that every duck that they can possibly think of is in a row. it seems 80% ready then hit go. Now I realise that 80% isn’t perfection. For a perfectionist like myself that’s a tough thing to deal with. The problem is that if you wait for perfection, you’ll be waiting forever. By pressing Go when I’m 80% ready I’ve set up a separate coaching division in
In 2014 I encourage you to have the courage to be creative, innovative, disruptive and fabulous but most of all I encourage you to press Go.
Body & Soul: Fashionably Fit This Festive Season! Nikki Fogden-Moore
I think it’s sold out?
By the time you’re reading this you may be groaning under the stress of too much turkey! I saw Christmas decorations in-store in September so it’s no surprise that another year
fresh julienne vegetables with organic dips – it’s all about presentation. Most deli’s can arrange a fantastic healthy platter for you. If in doubt delegate it out - but BE PREPARED!!
to Santa!
2. I can’t keep up my usual routine as the Christmas period is chaotic – I feel like I’m going to go backwards and put on all that weight again!
If the top of your WISHLIST is “a great body” then the good news is you can already start NOW by living the lifestyle that will get you there and testing out the basic philosophies during the busiest time of the year. Not going to shy away from a challenge are you?
Don’t panic – it’s no reason to throw your whole new regime out the window as every bit still
Combining a successful business with success in body & soul is an art, a daily practise, an approach and it deserves exactly the same attention as projects, people and places you need to be.
more metabolism booster based moments. A quick walk in the morning with your dog, cycle over the weekend, squeeze in a swim at the beach, go to 1 class instead of 3 during the week and workout with body weight exercises at home. Skip to your next meeting - THERE IS REALLY NO EXCUSE. You just have to readjust your workout goals and have consistency as they key. The reason WHY needs to be bigger than the HOW.
a million dollar pitch! It takes work, focus, an
3. What if I’m not making Christmas lunch – I have no control over what will be served?
Don’t wait for Santa to deliver. His idea of a
– as well as time put towards achieving the goal itself.
Either be a lovely guest and bring something
Time – money can’t buy it. The more time saving gadgets you buy the more volume of work you seem to output and the less time you seem to have for yourself.
fresh ingredients possible. It’s one day out of your year - Ce la vie! Don’t binge and think ‘what ever’ or it’s too late now. Focus on taste, hanging out with friends and family. Don’t let food be the focus of concern or you won’t enjoy your day.
So how can you be FIT and FESTIVE this season? Here’s the top 5 Qs I’ve been sent through from my VIPFIT high achieving clients leading up to Christmas. 1. How do I keep eating healthily when there are so many work related parties I need to attend? Follow the 80/20 Rule. You know parties will be part of your agenda so be prepared. Choose healthy breakfast and lunch options, carry nuts and high protein snacks with you for in-between meetings and make sure you have a delicious healthy nutritious lunch packed full of greens, vegetables and protein before you head out end of the day. ALWAYS have a mid afternoon snack so that you’re not binging and starving by the time you get to the function. BYO food on the invite to some: then bring along the sushi,
4. My family are not into doing anything active – how will I survive being away for those 2-3 days? Well – don’t wait around for them to motivate you. Accept it and plan your own run, walk, yoga or something active in between the present opening, sitting, eating, talking, eating and sitting again. If they question you – just smile, This is YOUR body. You’ve only got one body can do something active and healthy every day. 5. What snacks can I have at Christmas functions?
Sushi, fresh vegetable/salads – anything that is as close as possible to its natural state will be ok. Processed, salty and fatty foods are just going to make you feel worse. If you’re really serious about keeping healthy over the silly season just make sure you load up on nutritious meals during the day. Avoid grand statements about being on a diet and then 10 minutes later devour all the pigs in a blanket. It’s a personal choice. Alternate water with any alcoholic drink. Opt for red wine over white. Choose white spirits rather than dark ones etc… and drink more water, water, water. After all it is yourself and focus on the word diet or ‘can’t’. Healthy living is a mindset. Here are a few tips for getting through your rewarding: MOVE: Over the holidays you may even have more time to workout without a strict schedule. friends and family. GIVING VS GLUTTONY. We have so much food in abundance while others have hardly any at all. Being aware of others that are in need either in your own community area or even other countries can change you from having a gluttony day to a day of GIVING. Pack up some care parcels and take food over to homeless shelters, or for those in retirement homes who perhaps do not have any family. Reach out to a neighbour or someone less fortunate and share what might have been an countries as well that have no food or fresh water. Suddenly that extra slice of fruitcake seems a bit excessive in more ways than one. THE MAGIC 5: My 5 Top exercises for Fast Fitness while you’re celebrating: 2. 3.
Prisoner Squats The Plank
5.
Skipping!
Not sure about the technique on any of those then feel free to email me and I’ll send you out your FREE “5 FOR FAST FITNESS” CHEAT SHEET! YAY! It’s Christmas already! 5 Ideas for a healthy but delicious Christmas lunch or dinner: 1. Make heaps of delicious decadent salads 2. Avoid the creamy dressings and opt for infused oils with either chili or lemon… 3. Go for local fresh produce – farmers markets are a treasure box of taste, colour and a great morning out as well. 4. Have a BBQ – grill and roast meats 5. Go for taste rather than quantity. Try a small selection of your favourites rather than piling your plate high just because it’s there Coming full circle – it might be busy, you have a million and one things to do. Choose your time wisely. Focus on experiences, on treasured moments with friends and family. Have a ‘healthy approach’ to time management so you reduce your stress, can appreciate each day and get to wake up with vigour and energy to enjoy the next. Happy festivities and hope to see you with a glass of champagne in one hand and a healthy snack in the other!
News & Reviews
Featured This Month BOOK: HOW TO HAVE IT ALL - by Christina Guidotti A wonderful look at how to truly make the most of every area of your life - feel the energy pouring into your brain while you sit back on the beach this holidays! http://christinaguidotti.myshopify.com/collections/ book
BLOGS: A blog post in six words. Could you do it? This anonymous Facebook and Twitter based blog appeared in mid-December and is making big waves - and you are welcome to write your own posts. Think Ernest Hemingway! https://www.facebook.com/thesixwordblog?fref=ts http://twitter.com/@6WordBlog This is not strictly speaking a blog, but it is an a lot of bloggers up. The #MeninistTwitter hashtag has been seen as a joke, but now has become much more; raising questions about men’s place in today’s workplace and homelife. Follow it on Twitter and on the BBC’s website. http://bbc.com/trending
WEBSITE: UPWORTHY Information that matters - and information that is relevant and real. Want a soundbyte that is more than just random sounds? Go to Upworthy. http://upworthy.com
Mark Webber
Lois Lane Lives: Be Afraid. Be Very Afraid. Or Not... Kate Stone
“What would you do if you were not afraid?” Spencer Johnson, Who Moved My Cheese
I am, on a regular basis, scared half to death. of. Spiders Ghosts Daleks Weird triangle shapes in dreams Heights Spiders Spiders Spiders Cockroaches Spiders Small spaces Getting locked in small spaces Getting locked in the loo Running out of loo paper in the loo Spiders Losing all of my shoes Never buying any more shoes again Being buried in bad shoes Spiders You get the picture. is, I suppose, almost a fear of failure. Because it’s the fear of letting people down. It’s a fear of not being good enough, and having to admit that to the world. And, of late, I have had to do that - through what in the has ended up being my own fault, through stubborness and silly pride. Let me explain. Many people within LBDG, whom I am privileged enough to count as wonderful friends, are aware that I am not particularly well at the moment. But me being me, I decided not to admit this fact to myself. ‘No, fact that I was fairly continuously hugging the The problem was, it was a bad month rather than a bad day, and my work was very much
My stupid inability to admit that I was failing meant people were losing patience, despite being incredibly kind - kinder than I would
have been to them, most likely. Something had to give. I had to face my fear. over my arm, there was no choice but to look myself in the eye and say the following: ‘You are sick. You are not coping. You, and everyone around you, deserve the truth. People need to understand what is going on. And guess what?’ YOU DESERVE A BREAK, YOU SILLY COW. It was a bit of a watershed moment, in more ways than one, as many, many tears were spilled. But it had to happen. I had to let that fear go. Because it was causing so much stress and anxiety that it was having a physical impact on my illness. Sometimes we really do have nothing to fear but fear itself. my health. This haunts me terribly. I hate knowing that my inability to say ‘I need help, because I am not Superwoman’ meant that a publication which has deadlines didn’t go out on time. But I am extraordinarily lucky that I work compassion and honesty and strength. Who wasn’t afraid to help ME face MY fear. And in terms of being Superwoman - maybe I have beaten the kryptonite. For now. And can be Superwoman every other day. I still can’t do spiders though. I suppose I could always hit them with a lump of kryptonite? Or a shoe. Got lots of those...
A new year - a new start. Some fantastic articles from a wide range of contributors to We look forward to seeing you soon.
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CONNECTION. COLLABORATION. NETWEAVING. BUSINESS BUILDING.A VOICE. A VISION. A COMMUNITY. CHANGEMAKERS. GENEROUS. THOUGHTLEADERS. HONEST. AUTHENTIC. SUCCESSFUL. UNIQUE. ENTREPRENEURS. PROFESSIONALS. FEARLESS. OUTSPOKEN.
LBDG is about community. It’s about business leaders and entrepreneurs collaborating. It’s about creating sustainable, leverageable and successful businesses. Who Are We? Members of the LBDGroup are cross functional and cross industry. Lawyers, bankers, marketing and PR professionals, media, mining, construction, designers, jewellery, fashion, philanthropists, non-for-profit, human resources, fitness, health and well-being, property, sales, speakers and authors to name but a few. And with a fabulous mix of corporates to own business it is the quality of conversations that we have that make us so different. Membership Levels We offer three levels of membership for women that are committed to building their businesses, to fast track their growth and to ensure that they are surrounding themselves with the best in the businesses. BLACK, DIAMOND and PLATINUM membership levels are designed to offer increasing one to one mentoring and group mentoring and business education and training. Depending on where you are in your journey there is a membership level that’s right for you If you are just starting out in corporate, or making the change to your own business, and looking for guidance from those who are already walking the talk, then Black might be the new Black for you. An introduction into all that LBDG has to offer, it’s a great way to find out what we are all about. To find out more, and to join, click HERE. With access to all that LBDG has to offer, Diamond membership means dinners, seminars, and most of all netweaving at its finest. To find out more, and to join, click HERE. With exclusive access to one on one mentoring from the powerhouse that is Janine Garner, Platinum membership is the choice of those who want to make the most of their business - fast. With all of the benefits of Diamond plus Business Masterclasses, the annual LBDG Retreat and complimentary Exclusive Dinner Series attendance in Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne as some of the other attractions, Platinum reflects its name. To find out more, and to join, click HERE.