Have you ever been called for jury service? Well I have and today I had my day in court. It’s an interesting experience and just judging from this morning’s process, I can see why it takes so long for cases to move through the courts.
There were probably 100 of us – a motley crew I might add – all shepherded into this warm, airless courtroom. At 10.15 we were advised to make a quick visit to the washroom if necessary – most of the women left. There were two toilets. An hour later, still nothing had happened.
Then we were told to form a single line and proceed up four flights of stairs. It was like being back in preschool – I quite expected to see a rope. Once in the next courtroom, we were advised about the case, saw the accused, and then given all the reasons we could use to get out of serving on the jury. They also read out all the names of the witnesses in case there was a conflict of interest.
Now this was a murder case and we’d already been warned it could be at least three months, so much as I believe we all have a civic responsibility to serve on juries – three months is pushing it, especially when you own a small business.
Those who could potentially serve on the jury were asked to leave to come back another day, while those of us wanting out of the process, had to stay. One by one we had to stand before the judge and give our reasons for asking for deferment or to be excused from the process altogether. I felt badly for those who had more personal reasons for not wanting to be involved as they had to speak up, not just before the judge, but the rest of us in court.
It was not without its funny moments – take the elderly gentleman who in a strong Scottish brogue complained that he couldn’t hear the judge, and when asked if he wore a hearing aid, quickly retorted back that he wasn’t deaf you know.
Well, I got off. I felt like I’d got out of jail, could go past GO and collect my $200. I’ve been anxious about this case for several months now, worrying about how I was going to juggle all this. But I’m off the hook… this time.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Speaking from the Heart
What makes a good speaker? It’s a question I am often asked and my response is usually when the speaker talks with humour, honesty and integrity, and ensures the presentation is truly relevant to the audience.
A few weeks ago, for example, I had the opportunity to attend the Access to Success Conference. The caliber of the speakers was outstanding and it struck me that each had an important message to convey and each told their story with humour and honesty. It was wonderful just to laugh out loud – we don’t do it enough.
One of the most poignant stories was told by Alan Hobson who had successfully climbed Mount Everest on his third attempt. But it was his story of his second attempt that grabbed my attention.
This expedition had been thwarted because one of their team got into trouble and was in real danger of dying on the mountain. So everyone rallied round to save him. At one point he was alone, having collapsed and was just lying in the snow. The danger here was that he would just fall asleep, never to wake up.
The team struggled from a distance not knowing what to do when someone remembered that he was linked up by a walkie-talkie system to the US. It was the voices of his young daughters saying ‘Daddy wake up, we want you to come home ‘ that brought him to back to life and there was no doubt in anyone’s mind, that his daughters had saved him.
This speaker had everything – a story that made you want to laugh, cry and remember his message of focusing on what is important in life – be it raising your children, climbing a mountain or in his case, winning a battle with cancer. It was a story of courage.
A few weeks ago, for example, I had the opportunity to attend the Access to Success Conference. The caliber of the speakers was outstanding and it struck me that each had an important message to convey and each told their story with humour and honesty. It was wonderful just to laugh out loud – we don’t do it enough.
One of the most poignant stories was told by Alan Hobson who had successfully climbed Mount Everest on his third attempt. But it was his story of his second attempt that grabbed my attention.
This expedition had been thwarted because one of their team got into trouble and was in real danger of dying on the mountain. So everyone rallied round to save him. At one point he was alone, having collapsed and was just lying in the snow. The danger here was that he would just fall asleep, never to wake up.
The team struggled from a distance not knowing what to do when someone remembered that he was linked up by a walkie-talkie system to the US. It was the voices of his young daughters saying ‘Daddy wake up, we want you to come home ‘ that brought him to back to life and there was no doubt in anyone’s mind, that his daughters had saved him.
This speaker had everything – a story that made you want to laugh, cry and remember his message of focusing on what is important in life – be it raising your children, climbing a mountain or in his case, winning a battle with cancer. It was a story of courage.
Monday, December 03, 2007
On a Learning Curve
Did you know that Thursday is the new Friday? Neither did I. But I am learning a lot through working with the young women on the launch party and launch of Company of Young Women.
It’s fascinating to better understand what impresses and attracts them to events – so different from us boomers. And as for Facebook, I am still grappling with the pokes and someone writing on my wall. I guess I will get there… eventually.
I see Company of Young Women as a wonderful opportunity to learn from and support young women as they work their way through the ranks. And who’s to say who will learn the most!
So stay tuned for the launch party… one thing I do know, it won’t be on a Thursday!
It’s fascinating to better understand what impresses and attracts them to events – so different from us boomers. And as for Facebook, I am still grappling with the pokes and someone writing on my wall. I guess I will get there… eventually.
I see Company of Young Women as a wonderful opportunity to learn from and support young women as they work their way through the ranks. And who’s to say who will learn the most!
So stay tuned for the launch party… one thing I do know, it won’t be on a Thursday!
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Amazing Women
Did you know that the person who started the Hospital for Sick Children, was a mom in her twenties? Pretty impressive for the times. As were the other women and stories we heard at the luncheon to celebrate Canada’s 100 most powerful women.
But perhaps the most impressive were from the youngest and oldest in the group. Young Hannah Taylor, 12 who had to stand on a box to reach the microphone, captured the audience with her charm and amazing confidence as she shared why she had started a charity to support the homeless. We need to clone her enthusiasm, caring and compassion because if we did, the world would be a much better place.
At the other end of the spectrum, we heard from Mayor Hazel McCallion, 86 who cracked jokes and spoke passionately about the need to have more women in politics.
Several of the women honoured were past speakers at Company of Women and we congratulate them all.
But perhaps the most impressive were from the youngest and oldest in the group. Young Hannah Taylor, 12 who had to stand on a box to reach the microphone, captured the audience with her charm and amazing confidence as she shared why she had started a charity to support the homeless. We need to clone her enthusiasm, caring and compassion because if we did, the world would be a much better place.
At the other end of the spectrum, we heard from Mayor Hazel McCallion, 86 who cracked jokes and spoke passionately about the need to have more women in politics.
Several of the women honoured were past speakers at Company of Women and we congratulate them all.
Monday, November 19, 2007
All grown up
Last week marked a special moment in my career as a mother. We bought my daughter’s wedding dress. And we did so without any disagreement, both selecting the same dress and agreeing – this was THE one. She looks beautiful – young, fresh and poised, ready for her new life with her partner.
“Did you cry?” my friends asked. I didn’t but seeing her in her dress, made me realize our relationship is going to change. No question now, she’s grown up and growing away. She’s starting a new and exciting stage in her life.
But isn’t that what motherhood is all about – we raise our children to give them wings - the confidence and courage to make their own way in the world. And we accept them for who they are.
There may be some of you questioning why I write about this in a business blog, but I would argue that we are women and mothers first, business owners second.
“Did you cry?” my friends asked. I didn’t but seeing her in her dress, made me realize our relationship is going to change. No question now, she’s grown up and growing away. She’s starting a new and exciting stage in her life.
But isn’t that what motherhood is all about – we raise our children to give them wings - the confidence and courage to make their own way in the world. And we accept them for who they are.
There may be some of you questioning why I write about this in a business blog, but I would argue that we are women and mothers first, business owners second.
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
NAVIGATING YOUR WAY TO SUCCESS
This morning we had fun and games with the GPS in my car. I am not used to it, so thought I would test it when I was going on a trip when I knew where I was going.
This GPS machine is single-minded, unlike other GPS systems where the voice will say re-calculating the route, this one was stuck on one route to reach our destination and I didn’t want to go that way. So at every turn, it was trying to get me to turn around and follow directions. Quite irritating actually.
But it made me think of what it is like when you start a business and need to be flexible. There’s no one route to success, and for some of us, we’ve made some detours on the way. We need the GPS that will recalculate the route and allow for us to make mistakes, take the wrong turning but still end up at the desired destination.
There’s mixed views on whether you need a business plan to successfully launch a business. I see it like a big journey – few of us would set off on an exciting trip across Canada say, without first checking a map. So why would you set off on a business venture without doing the same.
I’m not saying you have to have a 80-page document, but when you put your goals down on paper, do some homework and give some thought to how you are going to build your business, you give yourself a head start on reaching your destination.
What do you think?
This GPS machine is single-minded, unlike other GPS systems where the voice will say re-calculating the route, this one was stuck on one route to reach our destination and I didn’t want to go that way. So at every turn, it was trying to get me to turn around and follow directions. Quite irritating actually.
But it made me think of what it is like when you start a business and need to be flexible. There’s no one route to success, and for some of us, we’ve made some detours on the way. We need the GPS that will recalculate the route and allow for us to make mistakes, take the wrong turning but still end up at the desired destination.
There’s mixed views on whether you need a business plan to successfully launch a business. I see it like a big journey – few of us would set off on an exciting trip across Canada say, without first checking a map. So why would you set off on a business venture without doing the same.
I’m not saying you have to have a 80-page document, but when you put your goals down on paper, do some homework and give some thought to how you are going to build your business, you give yourself a head start on reaching your destination.
What do you think?
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Doing Well, by Doing Good
Last night’s speaker, Peggie Pelosi, spoke eloquently and with passion about how we all need to get involved in giving back. She admitted that while she’d always wanted to, she would keep saying to herself, I will do this when… but “when” was never right at that moment.
It was when she was working for USANA, that she came to realize that when companies reach out and develop their corporate responsibility muscle, that it makes a difference – not just to the charity or cause, but to the employees and the bottom line. Today’s generation particularly wants to work for a company that gives back.
In our own small way, Company of Women has been making a difference. Through our Give Change to Make Change campaign, we have raised close to $2,500 for Opportunity International, a charity that provides micro credit loans to women in developing countries. As an organization that supports women entrepreneurs in Canada, it seems a good fit and judging by the generosity of my members, they think so too. It really doesn’t take that much. We just collect change at the end of our meetings and the toonies and loonies add up. And with a small loan of $84 we are changing the lives of others.
What can you do? Which cause would fit well with your business? Think about it. Even from a business perspective it makes sense. As we agreed last night, your business can do well by doing good. Start today.
It was when she was working for USANA, that she came to realize that when companies reach out and develop their corporate responsibility muscle, that it makes a difference – not just to the charity or cause, but to the employees and the bottom line. Today’s generation particularly wants to work for a company that gives back.
In our own small way, Company of Women has been making a difference. Through our Give Change to Make Change campaign, we have raised close to $2,500 for Opportunity International, a charity that provides micro credit loans to women in developing countries. As an organization that supports women entrepreneurs in Canada, it seems a good fit and judging by the generosity of my members, they think so too. It really doesn’t take that much. We just collect change at the end of our meetings and the toonies and loonies add up. And with a small loan of $84 we are changing the lives of others.
What can you do? Which cause would fit well with your business? Think about it. Even from a business perspective it makes sense. As we agreed last night, your business can do well by doing good. Start today.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Jusk Ask
In another life I was a fundraiser. One of the first rules of fundraising is ask, and the second rule of fundraising is ask again.
I was reminded of this as I listened to Erica Ehm talking at a conference on Saturday. She was sharing that most of her successes were due to just asking for what she wanted. And when you think about it – what’s the worst that could happen – they say no, but often they may well surprise us and say yes.
As entrepreneurs, we are already risk-takers, so why not take it to the next level. Think about what you want to achieve, who could help you realize that goal, and ask – for help, for money, for support, whatever you need I really believe that it is only when we put it out there that the universe can respond. So just ask.
I was reminded of this as I listened to Erica Ehm talking at a conference on Saturday. She was sharing that most of her successes were due to just asking for what she wanted. And when you think about it – what’s the worst that could happen – they say no, but often they may well surprise us and say yes.
As entrepreneurs, we are already risk-takers, so why not take it to the next level. Think about what you want to achieve, who could help you realize that goal, and ask – for help, for money, for support, whatever you need I really believe that it is only when we put it out there that the universe can respond. So just ask.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Launch of magazine
This has been an exciting week with the launch of our magazine, Company.
Like any business venture, you worry that you are on the right track, that you’ve accurately sensed the pulse of your “community” and that the product you develop is both user- friendly and professional .
Well… judging from the instant response, it would seem we are “on the money” and everyone seems to love the magazine. We’ve heard that you like the size, the length and content of the articles, and that it is relevant and meaningful to you. Whew! Just keep the feedback coming – this is your magazine and we want it to meet your needs.
It’s been kind of a heady experience as we had coverage on CHCH TV, interviews with Media in Canada and Masthead, the magazine for publishers. As a novice at this, I felt a bit of an imposter. What is it that they say ….just fake it until you can make it. But as one member observed, this is intuitive. I know what I want out of a publication and I reckon that other busy women in business feel the same way. Time will tell. Meanwhile, we're reprinting so that we can keep up with the demand for copies!
My thanks to Chris Desforges who did such a wonderful job on the design, and my team of writers for pulling this off in such a short timeframe. And a special thanks to the advertisers who had faith in us, and came on board.
Like any business venture, you worry that you are on the right track, that you’ve accurately sensed the pulse of your “community” and that the product you develop is both user- friendly and professional .
Well… judging from the instant response, it would seem we are “on the money” and everyone seems to love the magazine. We’ve heard that you like the size, the length and content of the articles, and that it is relevant and meaningful to you. Whew! Just keep the feedback coming – this is your magazine and we want it to meet your needs.
It’s been kind of a heady experience as we had coverage on CHCH TV, interviews with Media in Canada and Masthead, the magazine for publishers. As a novice at this, I felt a bit of an imposter. What is it that they say ….just fake it until you can make it. But as one member observed, this is intuitive. I know what I want out of a publication and I reckon that other busy women in business feel the same way. Time will tell. Meanwhile, we're reprinting so that we can keep up with the demand for copies!
My thanks to Chris Desforges who did such a wonderful job on the design, and my team of writers for pulling this off in such a short timeframe. And a special thanks to the advertisers who had faith in us, and came on board.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
The Power of Networking
Talk about the power of networking! Last May at a retirement party, I bumped into someone I knew from another life. We chatted and updated each other on our projects and as a result I got invited to attend an International Trade Mission with a group of women from Africa. It was just a couple of days prior to our first conference, so I went but could not devote too much time to it.
I really enjoyed meeting the women and as a result, four of the delegates chose to attend our conference. Their involvement just made the conference experience that much richer. I have always believed that it doesn’t matter what business you are in, the issues are the same and after spending time with them, I’ve come to realize that it also doesn’t matter what country you are in, we all face similar challenges.
One of the women, Aoko joined Company of Women, making her our first international member and I have kept in touch with others from the delegation. I am working on ways to link my members with women entrepreneurs in Africa as I believe we can learn so much from each other.
So it was wonderful today to receive an email from Kuena to tell me that our conference so inspired her that she now wants to offer a similar learning experience to women in her country and she’s pulling together a committee to make it happen! Now how cool is that.
Just goes to show that you can never tell where one connection will take you.
I really enjoyed meeting the women and as a result, four of the delegates chose to attend our conference. Their involvement just made the conference experience that much richer. I have always believed that it doesn’t matter what business you are in, the issues are the same and after spending time with them, I’ve come to realize that it also doesn’t matter what country you are in, we all face similar challenges.
One of the women, Aoko joined Company of Women, making her our first international member and I have kept in touch with others from the delegation. I am working on ways to link my members with women entrepreneurs in Africa as I believe we can learn so much from each other.
So it was wonderful today to receive an email from Kuena to tell me that our conference so inspired her that she now wants to offer a similar learning experience to women in her country and she’s pulling together a committee to make it happen! Now how cool is that.
Just goes to show that you can never tell where one connection will take you.
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
What are we waiting for?
Last week at my friend’s funeral, friends and family spoke of her determination, her courage and her love of life. As her husband shared, in the four years since she’d been diagnosed with breast cancer, she’d been crazily optimistic and packed a lot of life into those four years – learning to ride a motor bike and getting her license, taking up golf, participating in the 60K walk to end breast cancer twice, succeeding in a high powered job with a major corporation. No, nothing was going to stop Val from living the life she wanted.
It does make you wonder what you would do if you were given the same prognosis – would you work as hard? Would you try to spend more quality time with family and friends? Or would you, like Val continue to learn and grow, perhaps travel to broaden your horizons?
What holds us back from doing all this in good health? Why do we have to wait until it is almost too late to achieve our dreams?
In a recent article, life coach Gail Blanke asks a similar question – what are you waiting for? She observes that we tend to put our power on hold until we get a signal or an invitation that this is THE right time to change our lives, that all the stars are aligned to make it work. It is almost as if our fear of failure holds us back.
She tells a poignant story of a young woman who aspired to be an intern with a famous opera maestro and she had written to him to explore this possibility. She got a letter back but her fear of rejection held her back and she never opened it. It sat unopened for years until his death, and only then did she discover that he had been willing to take her as his intern. What a missed opportunity. After that, she vowed she would never shortchange or sabotage herself again. She encourages other women to recognize their self-worth - “Don’t be a smart girl with dumb fear. Fear is nothing more less than False Evidence Appearing Real” she tells others.
How do you embrace your power asks Blanke. She encourages us to add up the times we’ve showed up big, not the times we’ve messed up. What’s your big dream? What’s holding you back? As Blanke asks – what are you waiting for? Go for it.
It does make you wonder what you would do if you were given the same prognosis – would you work as hard? Would you try to spend more quality time with family and friends? Or would you, like Val continue to learn and grow, perhaps travel to broaden your horizons?
What holds us back from doing all this in good health? Why do we have to wait until it is almost too late to achieve our dreams?
In a recent article, life coach Gail Blanke asks a similar question – what are you waiting for? She observes that we tend to put our power on hold until we get a signal or an invitation that this is THE right time to change our lives, that all the stars are aligned to make it work. It is almost as if our fear of failure holds us back.
She tells a poignant story of a young woman who aspired to be an intern with a famous opera maestro and she had written to him to explore this possibility. She got a letter back but her fear of rejection held her back and she never opened it. It sat unopened for years until his death, and only then did she discover that he had been willing to take her as his intern. What a missed opportunity. After that, she vowed she would never shortchange or sabotage herself again. She encourages other women to recognize their self-worth - “Don’t be a smart girl with dumb fear. Fear is nothing more less than False Evidence Appearing Real” she tells others.
How do you embrace your power asks Blanke. She encourages us to add up the times we’ve showed up big, not the times we’ve messed up. What’s your big dream? What’s holding you back? As Blanke asks – what are you waiting for? Go for it.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Farewell my friend
I was all set to update my blog, with some observations from my vacation on how switching off is really important to your health AND your business.
Little did I know that hours after writing the piece, I would learn that a friend and colleague had died. Further emphasizing to me, that we all have to live for the moment as who knows what tomorrow will bring.
I can’t say Val’s death was unexpected, it wasn’t. She’d been waging her own war against breast cancer for four years now but I guess I thought and selfishly hoped she had longer.
Last year she participated on our team for the Weekend to End Breast Cancer and although she was by this time walking with a cane, she was bound and determined to be with us as much as she could. In fact there were times when we were concerned that she was doing too much, but such was her tenacity that she walked much further than any of us thought possible. What I remember most was her smiling face, glowing with pride as we walked over the finish line.
Val, we will miss you. None of us are walking this year, but next year, the Chicks out Walking team will be back in force, and thinking of you every step of the way as we raise funds in your memory.
Little did I know that hours after writing the piece, I would learn that a friend and colleague had died. Further emphasizing to me, that we all have to live for the moment as who knows what tomorrow will bring.
I can’t say Val’s death was unexpected, it wasn’t. She’d been waging her own war against breast cancer for four years now but I guess I thought and selfishly hoped she had longer.
Last year she participated on our team for the Weekend to End Breast Cancer and although she was by this time walking with a cane, she was bound and determined to be with us as much as she could. In fact there were times when we were concerned that she was doing too much, but such was her tenacity that she walked much further than any of us thought possible. What I remember most was her smiling face, glowing with pride as we walked over the finish line.
Val, we will miss you. None of us are walking this year, but next year, the Chicks out Walking team will be back in force, and thinking of you every step of the way as we raise funds in your memory.
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Mompreneurs - A winning combination
Recently I have had the opportunity to connect with several mompreneurs. It is exciting to see how they have been able to combine running their businesses with raising their children.
Several had identified a need because of their own experiences and started to develop a product or service to help fill the gap. Others have turned their talents into opportunities to work from home, so they are there for their children during these crucial years.
I congratulate them on their wisdom and their conviction that they are on the right path – because it takes courage to break away from the corporate track and start out on your own.
Many of these mompreneurs have been nominated for the Mompreneur of the Year Award, and as I read their profiles, I found myself hoping that they are reading them too, as I could see the potential of some great strategic alliances if they connected with one another.
And it is a small world. Now I always knew that but as I connected with the women, several times I found we had something in common – be it people or our paths. All of which goes to emphasize how important it is that we stay connected, that we support each other and that we build our community of women because together we are strong.
Several had identified a need because of their own experiences and started to develop a product or service to help fill the gap. Others have turned their talents into opportunities to work from home, so they are there for their children during these crucial years.
I congratulate them on their wisdom and their conviction that they are on the right path – because it takes courage to break away from the corporate track and start out on your own.
Many of these mompreneurs have been nominated for the Mompreneur of the Year Award, and as I read their profiles, I found myself hoping that they are reading them too, as I could see the potential of some great strategic alliances if they connected with one another.
And it is a small world. Now I always knew that but as I connected with the women, several times I found we had something in common – be it people or our paths. All of which goes to emphasize how important it is that we stay connected, that we support each other and that we build our community of women because together we are strong.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?
This summer my daughters wanted to start a vegetable garden and I was thrilled that they wanted to do so. Although in hindsight it has become a bit like the time they wanted to get a rabbit. “Oh yes, mummy we will look after it.” “Oh yes, mummy we will clean out the cage.” Right. Guess who ended up with the maintenance of the rabbit?
Likewise with the garden, the major watering and weeding seems to have landed with me. However, it has been an interesting experience and as I reflect on it – very similar to starting a business.
Being novice gardeners, we started by planting all sorts of vegetables and strawberries. I have to say, we rather leapt in and read up what we should do after we’d planted – not always a good idea. Just as in starting your business, it’s helpful to do some homework so you can determine what you need to do and when.
We had a broad selection of vegetables from tomatoes to broccoli to pumpkins. The first to take off were the radishes which is when I started to question our choices. You see none of us like radishes, so why are we growing them? Similarly when you start a business you tend to offer a broad range of services and products because you are not sure what will take off, what will prove popular. My lesson from this – don’t choose something you don’t like to do, or in our case, like to eat. It’s a waste of your time.
Watching our garden grow has also been a lesson on flexibility and not guessing at outcomes. Given our lack of knowledge, the weather and other tests of nature such as local critters who are also keenly interested in our produce, it has paid to diversify. You never can tell, especially when you are starting out what is going to fly. So as you offer a range of products, give it time, you will soon learn what works and you may even be surprised at what ends up being your niche market. And like the garden, it pays to cultivate and nurture your customers.
We planted the seeds too close together, making it impossible for some to grow which makes me think of how we can take on too much and squeeze too much into a day when we start, not realizing how much time all the different tasks will take. Don’t spread yourself too thin. Prioritize.
And as for the strawberries, they were a lost leader. The weeds grew up so strong around where we planted them that we were unable to discern which were weeds and which were the strawberry plants! The solution– we dug it all up. We’ll start over next year and be a tad more attentive as to what they look like. As you grow your business, there will be lost leaders too. The trick is to learn from your mistakes and move forward.
Next year I think we will be a little more selective and realistic about what we will plant. We know more about what works, what we like and have a better sense of the work involved. If you have just ended your first year of business, no doubt you will have grown too and be better prepared for the next season in the life of your business.
Tonight we are sampling our beans – one of the joys of gardening – be it a business or vegetables - you get to enjoy the fruits of your labour.
Likewise with the garden, the major watering and weeding seems to have landed with me. However, it has been an interesting experience and as I reflect on it – very similar to starting a business.
Being novice gardeners, we started by planting all sorts of vegetables and strawberries. I have to say, we rather leapt in and read up what we should do after we’d planted – not always a good idea. Just as in starting your business, it’s helpful to do some homework so you can determine what you need to do and when.
We had a broad selection of vegetables from tomatoes to broccoli to pumpkins. The first to take off were the radishes which is when I started to question our choices. You see none of us like radishes, so why are we growing them? Similarly when you start a business you tend to offer a broad range of services and products because you are not sure what will take off, what will prove popular. My lesson from this – don’t choose something you don’t like to do, or in our case, like to eat. It’s a waste of your time.
Watching our garden grow has also been a lesson on flexibility and not guessing at outcomes. Given our lack of knowledge, the weather and other tests of nature such as local critters who are also keenly interested in our produce, it has paid to diversify. You never can tell, especially when you are starting out what is going to fly. So as you offer a range of products, give it time, you will soon learn what works and you may even be surprised at what ends up being your niche market. And like the garden, it pays to cultivate and nurture your customers.
We planted the seeds too close together, making it impossible for some to grow which makes me think of how we can take on too much and squeeze too much into a day when we start, not realizing how much time all the different tasks will take. Don’t spread yourself too thin. Prioritize.
And as for the strawberries, they were a lost leader. The weeds grew up so strong around where we planted them that we were unable to discern which were weeds and which were the strawberry plants! The solution– we dug it all up. We’ll start over next year and be a tad more attentive as to what they look like. As you grow your business, there will be lost leaders too. The trick is to learn from your mistakes and move forward.
Next year I think we will be a little more selective and realistic about what we will plant. We know more about what works, what we like and have a better sense of the work involved. If you have just ended your first year of business, no doubt you will have grown too and be better prepared for the next season in the life of your business.
Tonight we are sampling our beans – one of the joys of gardening – be it a business or vegetables - you get to enjoy the fruits of your labour.
Monday, July 09, 2007
CONFIDENCE BOOST
I met with Andrew Patricio from Biz Launch ostensibly to explore ways that we could work together in providing training and support for would-be women entrepreneurs.
I had heard Andrew talk at a women’s conference and was impressed with what I saw and heard. He clearly knew his stuff and from the stories he told, was truly supportive of women entrepreneurs. So I contacted him to suggest a meeting. It took us a while to find a mutually convenient time, but we persevered and we met at Andrew’s Mississauga office – Starbucks.
As we familiarized each other with the programs and services we offered, it was clear that we were working with similar groups, albeit at different levels as BizLaunch delivers workshops across Canada for Staples and Company of Women is based in the GTA.
When I initiated the meeting, my goal was to look at how BizLaunch could help my members and other women build and grow their businesses. I never expected that the main focus of our discussion would be on how to build and grow mine!
Like other entrepreneurs, there are times when you feel you are working in a vacuum not sure if you are moving in the right direction or making the right moves. My conversation with Andrew was a real boost as he enthused about all that we have done in Company of Women to date and encouraged me to think bigger.
I left that meeting on a real high – pumped and ready to take on the world! So thank you Andrew – for your time, your suggestions and your frank comments.
PS If you are looking for training and support – check out www.bizlaunch.ca
I had heard Andrew talk at a women’s conference and was impressed with what I saw and heard. He clearly knew his stuff and from the stories he told, was truly supportive of women entrepreneurs. So I contacted him to suggest a meeting. It took us a while to find a mutually convenient time, but we persevered and we met at Andrew’s Mississauga office – Starbucks.
As we familiarized each other with the programs and services we offered, it was clear that we were working with similar groups, albeit at different levels as BizLaunch delivers workshops across Canada for Staples and Company of Women is based in the GTA.
When I initiated the meeting, my goal was to look at how BizLaunch could help my members and other women build and grow their businesses. I never expected that the main focus of our discussion would be on how to build and grow mine!
Like other entrepreneurs, there are times when you feel you are working in a vacuum not sure if you are moving in the right direction or making the right moves. My conversation with Andrew was a real boost as he enthused about all that we have done in Company of Women to date and encouraged me to think bigger.
I left that meeting on a real high – pumped and ready to take on the world! So thank you Andrew – for your time, your suggestions and your frank comments.
PS If you are looking for training and support – check out www.bizlaunch.ca
Monday, June 25, 2007
Dreams
We all have dreams that we want to realize, and often it takes us longer than we think to get there.
But a few weeks ago, I shared my dream with several women who are part of Company of Women and with their help, it is becoming a reality.
I have always enjoyed writing – real stuff – not fiction – but the facts of life. When I look back, I was even the editor of the school newsletter so it really should come as no surprise, that writing, sharing our truths and finding our voices are very much part of my future as well as my past.
So what’s the dream? To produce a publication that is meaningful to women; that gives you the information, tools and a touch of reality (and humour) to help you succeed and realize your dreams. The other weekend, we had the first meeting of a group of women who will be writing for Company – a new publication we plan to launch in September.
Sure, there are other publications out there – but few that address the needs of women in business, and few that acknowledge how busy we are, and how little time we have to read, reflect and relax. Our goal is that Company will be THE resource to accelerate your success.
Company will be a cross between a newsletter and a magazine – we’ve fondly nicknamed it a “nag” and it will be more a mini-magazine. Why now? Well I have decided, if I don’t get on with it, it will all be too late, and just a lofty dream. So sink or swim, we’re off.
Stay tuned, it could be quite the ride!
But a few weeks ago, I shared my dream with several women who are part of Company of Women and with their help, it is becoming a reality.
I have always enjoyed writing – real stuff – not fiction – but the facts of life. When I look back, I was even the editor of the school newsletter so it really should come as no surprise, that writing, sharing our truths and finding our voices are very much part of my future as well as my past.
So what’s the dream? To produce a publication that is meaningful to women; that gives you the information, tools and a touch of reality (and humour) to help you succeed and realize your dreams. The other weekend, we had the first meeting of a group of women who will be writing for Company – a new publication we plan to launch in September.
Sure, there are other publications out there – but few that address the needs of women in business, and few that acknowledge how busy we are, and how little time we have to read, reflect and relax. Our goal is that Company will be THE resource to accelerate your success.
Company will be a cross between a newsletter and a magazine – we’ve fondly nicknamed it a “nag” and it will be more a mini-magazine. Why now? Well I have decided, if I don’t get on with it, it will all be too late, and just a lofty dream. So sink or swim, we’re off.
Stay tuned, it could be quite the ride!
Monday, June 11, 2007
Life is precious
Life isn’t fair to some people, some of the time. Take some close friends of my parents, a really great couple who had raised two daughters and enjoyed their four grandchildren.
Then one of the daughters suddenly gets sick with leukemia, and within six weeks has died. The shock of her death took its toll on her parents. I mean none of us expect our children to die before us. It’s the wrong order of things. But being brave and having each other, they survive and life begins to resume some normalcy when two years later, their second daughter has a massive heart attack and dies instantly. Having two daughters myself, I can’t even begin to imagine their pain, their loss.
Now today I learn, eight months after Angela’s death, that Muriel, her mother has died also. The cause isn’t known, but I suspect from a broken heart. How tough can life be. Now her husband has to soldier on, instead of enjoying his golden years with his loved ones. Sure makes you appreciate that we should live for the moment.
Then one of the daughters suddenly gets sick with leukemia, and within six weeks has died. The shock of her death took its toll on her parents. I mean none of us expect our children to die before us. It’s the wrong order of things. But being brave and having each other, they survive and life begins to resume some normalcy when two years later, their second daughter has a massive heart attack and dies instantly. Having two daughters myself, I can’t even begin to imagine their pain, their loss.
Now today I learn, eight months after Angela’s death, that Muriel, her mother has died also. The cause isn’t known, but I suspect from a broken heart. How tough can life be. Now her husband has to soldier on, instead of enjoying his golden years with his loved ones. Sure makes you appreciate that we should live for the moment.
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Taking Time to Play
Every May, Megan and I escape from Company of Women for a mini-retreat. We started this a couple of years ago, and have found it works well – for both of us.
When mother and daughter work together, it can be too easy to cross boundaries in our relationships – as mother-daughter, employer and employee. Besides, by the time we reach May – having co-ordinated at least four events a month since September, we have almost had enough. We know instinctively that it is time for a break – it refuels us so we can carry on and finish “our year” still being professional, friendly and willing to tackle whatever comes our way.
This year we went to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Just an hour drive from Oakville, it is amazing how quickly you can slip off the business shroud and don your play clothes.
Our rule – one Megan devised (can’t think why) is that we don’t talk business, and as Martha Stewart would say, this is a good thing. It allows us to slip back into our other and more important roles of mother-daughter. We enjoy each other’s company and of course, share a love of shopping so spending time together is not difficult, except maybe on the pocket book!
Just three days … and you feel totally different. I highly recommend a mini escape – be it one day or more - as it allows you to catch your breath, see things from a different perspective and get back to work on a more even keel.
When mother and daughter work together, it can be too easy to cross boundaries in our relationships – as mother-daughter, employer and employee. Besides, by the time we reach May – having co-ordinated at least four events a month since September, we have almost had enough. We know instinctively that it is time for a break – it refuels us so we can carry on and finish “our year” still being professional, friendly and willing to tackle whatever comes our way.
This year we went to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Just an hour drive from Oakville, it is amazing how quickly you can slip off the business shroud and don your play clothes.
Our rule – one Megan devised (can’t think why) is that we don’t talk business, and as Martha Stewart would say, this is a good thing. It allows us to slip back into our other and more important roles of mother-daughter. We enjoy each other’s company and of course, share a love of shopping so spending time together is not difficult, except maybe on the pocket book!
Just three days … and you feel totally different. I highly recommend a mini escape – be it one day or more - as it allows you to catch your breath, see things from a different perspective and get back to work on a more even keel.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
It is a small world
Last week was truly exciting on many fronts. We were hosting our first annual conference for women in business and by all accounts, it was a huge success. Knowing who we had coming as speakers, I was confident that it would go well, but what I hadn’t known was that we would be joined by some women from Africa and Pakistan who were in Canada as part of an international trade mission.
I had been able to spend some time with them for two days prior to the conference, and when four of them chose to join us on Thursday, it truly made the conference special.
In talking with them afterwards, they found as we do here, that the issues are the same world-wide and there is comfort and support in finding out you are not alone in your business.
I thank everyone for giving them such a warm welcome and I am excited to report that we have our first international member, as one of the women joined. Not only that, they are talking about coming back for next year’s event and bringing more women with them! Now that… as young people say, rocks.
I had been able to spend some time with them for two days prior to the conference, and when four of them chose to join us on Thursday, it truly made the conference special.
In talking with them afterwards, they found as we do here, that the issues are the same world-wide and there is comfort and support in finding out you are not alone in your business.
I thank everyone for giving them such a warm welcome and I am excited to report that we have our first international member, as one of the women joined. Not only that, they are talking about coming back for next year’s event and bringing more women with them! Now that… as young people say, rocks.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Touching base
When did you last ask your customers what they wanted or needed?
So often we spend our time determining what we think our customers need, which of course somehow fits into what we have to offer. But is that good business? Does it work? And how long do you keep those people as clients if that is all they are to you – a pay cheque?
At our members only meeting this week, we actively sought feedback. You could feel the energy in the room as people discussed (and debated) the questions asked of them. It has been my experience that when you involve people, they feel more connected. When you ask their opinion, they feel valued and when you give them a voice, they clamber to be heard. People came up with some great ideas, many of which we hope to implement in the months ahead.
It’s good to touch base and check in with your clients. It keeps you honest and helps also clear up any miscommunication, so everyone is on the same page and expectations are realistic.
Why not contact one of your clients today – not to make a sale, just to chat. You might be surprised what you learn.
So often we spend our time determining what we think our customers need, which of course somehow fits into what we have to offer. But is that good business? Does it work? And how long do you keep those people as clients if that is all they are to you – a pay cheque?
At our members only meeting this week, we actively sought feedback. You could feel the energy in the room as people discussed (and debated) the questions asked of them. It has been my experience that when you involve people, they feel more connected. When you ask their opinion, they feel valued and when you give them a voice, they clamber to be heard. People came up with some great ideas, many of which we hope to implement in the months ahead.
It’s good to touch base and check in with your clients. It keeps you honest and helps also clear up any miscommunication, so everyone is on the same page and expectations are realistic.
Why not contact one of your clients today – not to make a sale, just to chat. You might be surprised what you learn.
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