Wednesday, November 18, 2009

The Business of Friendships

Diamonds Got Nuthin' Over a Girls Best Friend...her Girlfriends!

Okay...I know a lot of men receive this newsletter, so you can either skip this section or just sit back and learn! :-)

Did you ever notice how a girlfriend can sense when something is off? And no matter if it is business or personal, a few words of encouragement and a hug can make you feel better.

If you are smart, you have surrounded yourself with all kinds of girlfriends. A network of girlfriends, if you will. My best friend (or chosen sister as another friend calls it) lives a thousand miles away in Florida, but she's there for me and visa versa. I also have my "go to girlfriends" for when I need an immediate answer to a problem or as a reference or referral. I have my "femtor girlfriends" (yes ladies, that's a female mentor) who I turn to when I need a new set of eyes to review a situation, kick me in the butt when I get stuck in rut, tell me what I need to hear, not just what I want to hear and give me words of encouragement to push past the slippery slope of self doubt. I have girlfriends who I admire for their wisdom and strength, and girlfriends who admire me for my inspiration and leadership.

We laugh, we cry, we share, we bond, we support, we teach, we lift, we encourage, we dare to be honest, and through the mix of it all, we empower each other to succeed.

Being a serious business woman doesn't mean abandonning what makes us special together, it means using these traits to build alliances and forge new opportunites to connect and grow--personally and professionally.

I am blessed to have a lot of girlfriends. In fact, now that I think about it, they're a lot like a diamond. Brilliant. Strong. And make me feel good!

Most are business women just like you. They've pulled me through many murky moments. . I call them my eWomenNetwork....

Not a member of eWomenNetwork? Join Now!

Okay guys, I'm done...and just so we are clear...my girlfriends and I are happy to accept diamonds this holiday season!

Marilyn Kleinberg
Executive Managing Director
eWomenNetwork

At eWomenNetwork we provide opportunities to surround yourself with like-minded businesswomen who share, inspire, teach and connect so you can grow personally and professionally.

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Deciding to Succeed

It's all about making a commitment...

I recently returned from the eWomenNetwork National Conference in Dallas. It was a convergence of 2500+ women from all over the country and Canada sharing their wisdom, experiences, resources and contacts. These were professional women, that despite the current economic conditions, or perhaps because of it, made a commitment to learn, laugh, and recharge their batteries by spending time with like-minded women. They showed up because they made a commitment to succeed.

Overhead at the conference: "Until you make a decision that you're going to succeed, you won't." Seems rather harsh until you realize that the speaker was really talking about making a commitment. (This is just one of the empowering messages I took home with me).

If you are a business owner, it's about knowing deep inside that there is nothing else you'd rather be doing because you are following your passion. That drive, that ambition, that invisible force must be inside you.

But you don't have to own the business to be passionate about succeeding. You need to be committed to the goals that have been set for you. And, I have found, you have to have your own set of personal goals that at least mirror your professional goals or exceed them.

Okay, I hear you askng, " I am passionate about my business, how come I am not succeeding?"

And so I ask you, how dedicated are you to succeeding in your business? Passion does not equal success without a good heaping of the right marketing plan, strategic alliances and partnerships, exceptional resources (think vendors and services) and, of course, an investment of time, money and effort. And as we like to say at eWomenNetwork, it takes team work, to make the dream work.

If you have made the decision to be successful, then you are surrounding yourself with a team of professionals that share your passion, can visualize your goals, and can help you make the leap from being in business to succeeding in business.

At eWomenNetwork, our goal is to be each other's team. I invite you to attend one of our upcoming events and start building your new team. Better yet, make the commitment right here and now to join the #1 resource for professional women. I promise you, you'll grow as you help others grow around you. Visit our website at www.ewomennetwork.com/chapter/snj or give me a call 609 601-1333, and let's decide to succeed together!

Monday, July 27, 2009

Is Image Everything?

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall...

Lately I've really come to hate my mirror. It doesn't even matter what angle I use, I still see an image that is less than flattering to my ego. This hits me at my very core.

Okay, I recognize that this is a personal problem and that I have at my fingertips a network of trusted resources within our eWomenNetwork membership to seriously address many of these this issues. And I will. Soon. I promise!

I grew up with tight, frizzy, curly hair (before the Afro was popular) and was always on the pudgy side (I still remember my pediatrician saying "all potatoes and no meat---ha! Now I'm equal portions of both!) Even in the 60's skinny and straight hair was what girls saw as perfection.

But other than health, why does it matter that I am no longer the same size 12 that I was 5 years ago? For that matter, why was I so relieved when Milt (my boyfriend) finally cut off all of his long, unruly, tangled, hair this week? He now looks respectable in my eyes. Here's my ego saying, "this is what I want him to look like so people take ME seriously when we are out together."

And why, when I struggle to pay bills each month, I find the money to color my hair, get my nails done and buy new clothes?

It's to make me feel good. And ya know, I think I'm okay with that. That's why our nights out at the Bella Medical Spa earlier this year and our evening at the Cherry Hill Laser and Skin Care Center last week were so well attended. Because I'm not the only that feels that way!

And let me share this secret with you...your image of yourself...it is everything! But it is not so much about your body as it is about your mind. How you feel about the way you look can alter the way you feel, the way you present yourself, the clothes you chose to wear, the people with who you interact, and the confidence in which you go after what you want. It is a struggle that you can win without altering the outer picture, but by readjusting the inner picture.

At eWomenNetwork we talk a lot about the tools we need to grow our business. That those tools are not stand alone items. We take a more holistic approach: healthy mind, healthy body, healthy business. Each month our speakers share their knowledge, ideas, and experiences that help sharpen one of those tools in your toolbox, whether it be for personal growth or professional growth. We are all a work in progress!

Need some help looking in your mirror? Come out to one of our events and let us help you find the new you! I know I'll be there!

Noah's Ark for Business

So, who's Got Your Back?

If you live in the northeastern part of the US, or it seems anywhere on the east coast, you've heard or said..."where's the ark...its been raining 40 days and 40 nights!"

It got me thinking, what would I take with me, as a 21st century businesswomen, on my ark?

I'd take two computers, two printers, two cell phones, two generators, two sets of legal pads and pens....but what about people?

Well I'd certainly take two of my best girlfriends (who else would you complain to when your hair is all frizzy because of the rain!)

Let me tell you about a program that eWomenNetwork quietly kicked off last year called "Building Your NOAH." It was created to help managing directors build stronger chapters.

The goal is for each chapter to have at least two representatives for every industry: two accountants, two marketing specialists, two financial planners, two event planners, two florists, two computer specialists, two skin care specialists, two...you get the idea.

But do you get the idea behind it? It's about creating opportunities for alliances, partnerships and resources. Let's face it, not everyone works well together and not every service is identical just because it sounds the same.

Alliances and partnerships become your back up plan, your go to people, your measuring stick of accomplishments. They help you build a stronger ark. They've got your back!

That's what eWomenNetwork is all about--helping you fill your ark of 'go to" people so you can keep your head above water when things get tough.

We've Got Your Back!

Building a Strong Team

Who Have You Thanked Lately?
A lesson learned is often at the expense of others. If you are lucky, you are forgiven and both parties walk away smarter.

Such was the case this week when I was reminded that everyone needs recognition for a job well done-no matter how seasoned and professional they are in their industry.

I also heard about an employee meeting a friend attended. The employees were concerned about some new procedures being implemented and the response from management was "If you don't like it, there are plenty of people looking for work. I am sure we can find a replacement for you." OUCH!

It got me thinking, how many of us take for granted the very people that help us grow personally and professionally.

In order to build a strong business, you need a strong team surrounding you--from employees to vendors; from clients to business alliances; from volunteers to friends and family.

Every last one of these people is integral to your success. Doesn't matter if they are compensated for their support, they need/deserve recognition that their efforts are appreciated.

Gratitude is simple. It can be verbal or written. It can be a special lunch just to say thanks. It can be a card--Send Out Cards are great way to show gratitude. Or a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

So here's my shout out to all of you who continue to support eWomenNetwork in South Jersey, Philadelphia and surrounding chapters. I appreciate the time you set aside each month to join us at our Accelerated Networking events and I appreciate the referrals you send my way for potential new members.

Thank you!

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Riding the Rail to the Finish Line--Becoming a Business Jockey

Can You See the Finish Line?

Last weekend, on a sloppy, muddy course, I watched an unknown horse, an unknown trainer, and a savvy jockey win the biggest contest in the horse racing industry--the Kentucky Derby. Mine That Bird (the horse) was the underdog going at 50-1 odds.

Do you sometimes feel that you are operating at similar odds? That the course is muddy and you can't get a solid grip? That your vision is so blurred that the finish line is no longer in view?

How did they do it? First, the trainer, Chip Wooley, had a true sense of belief and trust in the horse. He had an unbridled passion for the sport. And he had something to prove--he was the long shot.

The horse, well, he was a supreme animal with a winning lineage. But it was the jockey that won the race by adjusting his course, clearing his vision and he "riding the rail to the finish line."

The jockey, (Calvin Borel), despite the odds, believed in himself. He was committed to working towards the goal by using his proven skills and talents. He never gave up. And he never lost sight of the finish line.

Together--trainer, horse and jockey, they formed the perfect alliance built on trust, passion and the ability to keep a clear eye on the finish line.

Who are you building alliances with to reach your goals? It's obvious the trainer could not achieve his goal without the horse and the jockey. Do you know who your business needs as key alliances? Are you working to create these relationships?

eWomenNetwork is the perfect partner for professional businesswomen looking to find key alliances for their business. We provide access to businesswomen seeking like-minded, goal oriented, passionate people to connect, learn, grow and share resources with the common goal of supporting each other in our ride to the finish line. For more information visit the eWomenNetwork SJ chapter.

Saturday, March 7, 2009

Are you a Lion or a Lamb?

Calling all Lionesses!

Hello and welcome to March. It surely did come in like a lion and I hope it has roared itself out so the lamb can start sticking her head out.

But if you are a business person, this is no time to be a lamb. In order to be heard you really have to roar. And to be seen, you really need to roam the jungle and build up your pride (pride of lions and self pride!)

The best way to accomplish this is network, network, network. And the most cost effective networking is with eWomenNetwork.

Did you know for the price of one membership you have membership in all the chapters across the country and Canada?

Think about it. How many chambers do you belong to? Do you pay dues to each chamber? Of course! Or how about a professional organization? Don't you have to pay to belong to a chapter in Philadelphia and the chapter in South Jersey?

With eWomenNetwork, you have 5, count 'em 5, opportunities to network across the tri-state area with just one membership!

--South Jersey (Burlington to Cape May!!)
--Philadelphia
--Buxmont (Bucks-Montgomery County)
--King of Prussia
--and as of April....Wilmington, DE

At eWomenNetwork our goal is to provide you access to everyone--no geographic boundaries in our business plan!

So no matter how far you want to roam, eWomenNetwork has a road map to help your success ROAR!

Here's my Lioness special of the month:

Non-members: Join eWomenNetwork in March and be my guest at your first event as a new member! To join visit: http://www.ewomennetwork.com/joinUsNow_2.html

Members: Sign up a new member this month and you BOTH have a free event on me!

It's a jungle out there...why not hang out with Queens of the Jungle.

All the best to you,
Marilyn
Executive Director
eWomenNetwork SJ
609 601-1333

Saturday, February 14, 2009

Food For Thought: Adding New Ingredients Can Reshape Your Success Recipe

Although it is often said, it bears repeating "If you keep doing what you're doing, you'll keep getting what you're getting." Not rocket science, but how many of us have really taken a look at what we are doing...what are the ingredients in our daily plan of work and how can we "spice it up" to change the results?

Sometimes you have to start with what is important to yourself. Are you happy with what you are doing? If not, what are you going to do about it?

On February 20th at the Atlantic City Country Club we'll meet Roseann Vanella who did just that. She took stock of what she had accomplished, took measure of her happiness quotient and decided to change her menu of choices. In 2007 she walked away from the corporate world to follow a passion for food and opened a Super Suppers business catering to busy families by offereing fully cooked meals to go. Join us we we learn about her Recipe for Success.

Okay, so now you've looked at yourself; now what about your business? Here your ingredients include the green vegetable...money. Are you making the best decisions with managing your money? Are you worried that you did not plan for tax season? Are you preparing a recipe for success or disaster at tax time?

Join us on March 4th at the Mansion on Main Street for a half-day workshop on How to Make Tax Time Less Taxing. Hear from a panel of experts tax saving tips and strategies to manage your personal and business finances. Learn about corporate structures and the difference between a corporate entity, a Limited Liability Company (LLC), a S-Corp, and sole proprietorship. Meet experts on money management and tax saving opportunities. Learn about employment law and how it effects your hiring practices including full time, part time or contract employees. Get tips on using QuickBooks to keep your pulse on money management and tax preparation. And finally meet an expert on organizing it all.

So you've got your passion, you've got your money organized, but what about marketing? What are the ingredients in your marketing plan? In today's world if your recipe doesn't call for a heavy dollop of social media, your marketing will fall flat.

On March 20th at the Gourmet Italian Cuisine in Galloway Township we'll host part one of a two part series exploring the phenomenon of Social Media. Learn the basics about the top social media websites, Facebook, LinkedIn, Plaxo, and Twitter. This hands on workshop (bring your laptop) will teach you how to create your profile, build contacts and navigate the various applications unique to each site.

At eWomenNetwork it is our job to provide you opportunite to learn, connect promote and build your business. For me, the most important ingredient is YOU.

To register for these and other upcoming events, visit eWomenNetwork SJ

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Get Connected. Get Involved. Get Busy!


All right ladies…It’s time to take control of your business, your lifestyle, and your future. There is no room for “woe is me”. There is no room for “Doubting Thomasinas.” There is no room for discouraging “voices in your head”. There is no room for negativity. Period.

The successful women I meet have at least one thing in common—their belief in themselves, what they are doing and where they are going. At eWomenNetwork we call that “GLOW”. They’ll also be the first to tell you its not 100% of the time. But here’s the key, they recognize when the candle starts to flicker and they find the spark that reignites the flame.

What do they do? They get connected. They call a friend or mentor. They find new people to add to their network who have fresh ideas, new approaches and new resources.

What do they do? They get involved. They look to their community for non-profit work or new organizations to re-energize their personal commitments. They volunteer, sit on boards and make themselves available.

What do they do? They get inspired. They read. They attend lectures and symposiums. They reach out to someone they admire. As Sandra Yancy, the Founder and CEO of eWomenNetwork says, “If she’s the sharpest tool in her tool box, she needs a new toolbox.”

What do they do? They get busy! They go out and seek new opportunities for business. They create new alliances and partnerships. They build new relationships.

What are you doing? Now is the time to join eWomenNetwork. We’ll get you connected, involved, inspired and BUSY!

eWomenNetwork is a membership based marketing and media company designed and created to provide women with opportunities to promote, grow and transact business with other women business professionals. We are a high tech, high touch organization with a focus on each member from a holistic point of view—healthy mind, healthy body, healthy business. Our events are designed to educate and enlighten so that we work smarter, with better tools and better understanding of the process of success. In addition, our strong web-based community is complimented by our monthly local events that bring women together to network, share and learn from each other. Our motto is Give First/Share Always. We teach women to build relationship by sharing our resources with each other and asking how we can help.

Please take a moment to visit our local chapter website at www.ewomennetworksnj.com and feel free to call me with any questions.