Business Tips From Our Members:
"GET INVOLVED and COMMIT"
Becoming part of the Women’s Business Council — Southwest has been an exhilarating experience. WBCS women support each other in a way that I have never experienced in my 28 years of selling in a basically male dominated industry. The support and admiration from these women just really captured me and I knew I wanted to do more with this group. When I became a part of the WBCS, back in 2005, I have to admit that I thought business would be instantaneous just by being a member. The most important lesson I learned from all the women that have mentored and championed me along the way, was to get involved in committees and attend all the major events throughout the year. Believe me, it does take a lot of time and you have to be committed to the cause.
I knew that I had to get more involved. I started volunteering for registration at all the major events and I joined another committee. I went through the training for the site visits with the Certification Committee so I get to actually meet face-to-face with women business owners. When I meet with them, my first piece of advice is GET INVOLVED and COMMIT to the time; the rewards are great. Make time to go to all the functions and really network! Utilize the website which provides you with all the members and also decision makers in the supplier diversity arena. Also make sure you register on-line with all the target companies you want to meet with, as that is the first step in trying to secure meetings with these high level players.
Obtaining business is still a work in progress. My biggest reward was being nominated and winning the WBE Volunteer of the Year at the 2014 Parade of Stars Awards Gala. It was such a surprise and it made me realize that all my commitment was recognized by a wonderful group of women that have championed me along my journey as a WBE member. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for this award and I will treasure it every day.