Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of hosting a power breakfast for the Step Up Women's Network, a national, non-profit organization dedicated to "supporting women's bodies, minds, spirits and futures." A women's social philanthropy group, Step Up offers, among other things, empowerment programs for underserved teen girls, women's health education and advocacy, and professional networking.
The 50 women who filled the room represented an impressive and diverse cross-section of industries, positions, and experience -- including a marketing exec from an event planning company; attorneys; women in the health and wellness industry; a life coach; career strategists; beauty-company founders; a financial service professional; a fashion executive; a photographer; a songwriter; a designer; an MBA student; and a catering sales manager, just to name a few!
Everyone was there for the chance to soak up information, and I was honored to be the speaker, and to have the chance to tell my story and share my strategies for business success. In that supportive spirit, here they are:
1. Create a brand 2. Put your customer first 3. Know your market 4. Know your company's niche 5. Capitalize on your product's points of difference 6. Know your company's competition 7. Be a student of your business category 8. Create brand buzz, aka public relations (while advertising is expensive, good PR is priceless!) 9. Get your product into the right hands 10. Speak your target consumer's language in advertising 11. Help your company find new ways of branding 12. Expand your sources of revenue (in other words, when your competition grabs a piece of your pie, bake a bigger pie).
I'm one of the fortunate women who truly loves her work. I can't wait to get to the office each day, and I am absolutely passionate about color. I hope this comes through with every OPI Nail Lacquer you try.
I encourage you all to join a women's networking group, whether it be in person or online, and whether you're there to learn or to teach. I have found Step Up to be incredibly rewarding and reinforcing. And sharing business successes and information with other women is tremendously gratifying.
It's your turn now. Step up to the opportunity!
Photos: emilyhartphotography.com
