It is often that I reflect on the value of being a member of NAWBO. And then at our recent monthly board meeting the group had a discussion about the benefits of membership in this professional nationwide organization. I think we sometimes forget what we can get from our membership if we take advantage of what's available.
I am sure you have all heard of that famous radio station WIIFM (What's in it for me?) I am now going to ask that you sit back and listen to WIIFM....
The following Mission Statement says it all. What woman business owner would NOT want this support when running a business? I sure know I need it!
Mission Statement
The National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)
propels women entrepreneurs into economic, social and political spheres of power worldwide by strengthening the wealth creating capacity of our members and promoting economic development within the entrepreneurial community,creating innovative and effective change in the business culture and building strategic alliances, coalitions and affiliations, as well as transforming public policy and influencing opinion makers.
Personally, my membership with NAWBO VC has brought me the following benefits, just to name a few...
The value of business education, mentorship, and growth. At least once each month we have a program that provides informative guidance on how we can be better business owners. I have received guidance from other NAWBO members that has made me a stronger business owner. I have grown, both as an individual and as a business owner, because of the benefits of NAWBO.
The opportunity to build new relationships and alliances, gain trust in fellow members, to be referred to new clients by fellow members, to refer business to trusted members, and to gain some really great friendships as a side benefit.
Attendance at the national conferences and visits to Sacramento for Public Policy Days. If not for NAWBO VC I would not have had these opportunities to meet many other NAWBO members, hear fantastic speakers, attend great work shops, and to actually meet with government officials and to have the opportunity to ask them how they are going to help business owners.
Women are now half of the U.S. workforce, more than half of college enrollment, and the primary earners in more than two-thirds of American families. While we're doing so much to move forward, it's an interesting opportunity to look at where we have been and the impact that women business owners make-and to look ahead and plan our course.
We have enormous opportunities for success. How better can we take advantage than by being a part of an organization that is solely structured to aid in our successes? I don't know of any other organizations that provide that same Power to Business.
When you listen to your radio station....WIIFM....what comes to mind when measuring the value of being a NAWBO VC member? Listen carefully, I think you will be amazed if you are truly taking advantage of what's available. And, most importantly, get involved!
November 2009 Newsletter
