September 19, 2007

For the Business Women in the Crowd, You're in Good Company

Karen Hamilton, The Best Kept Secret

It can be lonely at the top. Or at the bottom for that matter.

That’s certainly what Anne Day experienced while running a consulting practice from her home. “I found it an isolating experience,” she explained during a recent interview.

So when the opportunity arose to start Company of Women, an organization that connects women in business professionally and personally, she was intrigued. When 165 women showed up for the first meeting although she was only expecting 35, she knew she was on to something.

Whether you’re just launching your business or have been up and running for some time, Company of Women has something to offer.

If you’re looking for information and inspiration, you can join a mastermind group. Along with seven other women, you’ll focus on your business goals with a trained business coach.

If you want to network and make contacts, come to one of the monthly dinner or breakfast meetings.

Looking to promote your business? Get in the on-line and print directories or consider renting a booth at a Company of Women trade show. The price is right and it’s a great way to showcase your product or services

I asked Anne what sets Company of Women apart from the other networking and professional groups in the GTA.

“We care about both the professional and personal level. Someone can come to a meeting and be Suzy Business Owner or just Suzy. Sometimes it’s not a woman’s business that needs support, but the woman herself. We try to give that personal support as well.”

That’s certainly the message that’s being sent with Company of Women’s new magazine, Company. The magazine features both business and lifestyle articles for professional women. “There’s not much out there that’s good reading material for women in business,” Anne explains. “We take a holistic approach. If things aren’t going well at home, they’re not going well in business.”

You can learn more about Company of Women by visiting their web site at www.companyofwomen.ca.