"Working with other WBEs, both as partners and clients, has enabled me to add another stream of revenue to my business. The opportunities are tremendous and continue to grow. It’s such a great way to step out of your comfort zone and add an entirely new group to your network."
Darlene Templeton is the President & CEO of Templeton & Associates, based in Austin, TX. She is a professional speaker, executive coach, author, business strategist, trainer, and author. Darlene's passion for connecting women led her to create the Amazing Woman Leaders program and Amazing Woman Alliance where high-achieving woman gather to support each other and our community. During her four years as a certified Woman Business Enterprise (WBE), Darlene has grown her network, done business with fellow WBEs, and volunteered with the Women's Business Council- Southwest. She was recently nominated for WBE Advocate of the Year at the 2018 Parade of Stars Awards Gala.
How has WBCS membership benefitted your business?
Since becoming certified, my network has grown tremendously. I have connected, collaborated, and built lasting relationships with other fabulous women business owners. These relationships have benefit both my business and me personally. Working with other WBEs, both as partners and clients, has enabled me to add another stream of revenue to my business. The opportunities are tremendous and continue to grow. It’s such a great way to step out of your comfort zone and add an entirely new group to your network. The other huge benefit is that you are able to meet, connect, and partner with Sustaining (Corporate) Members, which gives you exposure to opportunities that may not have known about otherwise.
Why did you decide to become WBE certified?
I attended an event with my dear friend and mentor, Cherie Mathews, certified WBE and CEO of healincomfort.com. We met so many other women business owners and made great connections at the event. WBCS had such a wonderful group of women business owners and leaders. It was another way for me to build more meaningful relationships, to create partnerships, and to grow my business! I also felt that the women wanted to connect, support and mentor other women business owners. It’s all about the relationships- that is what will build your network and grow your business!
What is your favorite WBCS event and why?
My favorite event is Power to Potential where I had the chance to participate in Power Pitch. During Power Pitch, WBEs pitch their businesses to an audience of Sustaining Members and receive feedback. It was such a great way to meet with our Sustaining Members, and WBEs with large companies. I am really looking forward to continuing those relationships. I also love to attend the quarterly events in Austin, as I have the opportunity to meet other local WBEs.
What is the best reason for another WBE to get certified?
The best reason for getting certified is that is expands your network, your visibility, and your business- all things that will help you grow both personally and professionally. It’s a “one stop shop” for women owned businesses where you can connect with all the resources that you need to be successful. It’s not just about more clients, but about building a strong network of committed women who support other women! You have to participate, to commit to being involved, and to give back; that will bring you greater success!
How have you volunteered with WBCS?
I currently serve on the Austin Committee, volunteer as a greeter for events, and am a new member Ambassador. I truly enjoy being an Ambassador for our new members as it gives me the opportunity to guide and mentor WBEs to start benefitting from certification immediately. I have also been an exhibitor at the Women's Business Enterprise National Council's (WBENC) National Conference & Business Fair when it was held here in Austin. Cherie Mathews and I shared a booth.
Why is building relationships with your fellow women entrepreneurs important to you?
Building strong relationships is the key to success, both personally and professionally. For many years in the corporate world, I was always the only woman in a male dominated tech environment. I learned that creating and building strong relationships with other women and women entrepreneurs was critical to my success in all areas of life! I was fortunate to have great mentors and leaders that were there for me, and still are today. If we could do this by ourselves, we would have already done it.
I am passionate about connecting and lifting up other women entrepreneurs, and it’s my way of giving back. I believe in servant leadership and ensuring that you are always giving back, providing value, and understanding how you can help others. WBCS is an amazing way to build your tribe and to grow your business.
