As a business owner, it is easy to view your business as the center of the universe. With responsibility for managing finances to increasing revenue and beyond, the small-business owner can easily become focused only on the business at hand.
Association membership, whether it is industry specific or a special-interest organization (like NAWBO), can help expand your view. Associations offer information, advocacy, public relations opportunities, professional development, and expanded resources to help your business grow in a cost-effective manner.
Information — NAWBO offers excellent information, including skills and inspiration, at our monthly meetings, at NAWBO University, and at Neighborhood NAWBOs. Professional speakers and expert members freely share information to help increase revenue and make life easier for business owners.
Advocacy — As part of a national organization, NAWBO members are kept current on legislative news that affects business growth. Advocacy for business (especially women business owners) are top of mind for NAWBO members. NAWBO was founded as a way to change laws (HR5050, which gave women access to capital). At the local level, Public Policy Day is a chance to meet local legislators, to watch a session at the Capitol, and to discuss the issues with intelligence and civility. Last month’s program, “Politics in Your Pajamas: Change the World without Putting on Pants,” provided attendees with tools and techniques to effect change using websites that allow for interaction with local, state and national governments.
Opportunities — Many of our members are experts in their fields. NAWBO offers a platform for many of them to share their expertise. Our members have spoken at national conferences and expanded their reach beyond NAWBO members. We also offer marketing opportunities for members at little to no cost.
Professional and personal development — Both are a great byproduct of active involvement in NAWBO or other associations. Leadership roles can bring great growth both professionally and personally. The opportunities to be involved in a larger community offer many benefits.
Expanded Resources — Networking opportunities to meet amazing people exist regularly on the NAWBO calendar. Even more important are the opportunities to collaborate on community projects, corporate sponsor and alliance events, and national and global efforts through the national organization.
Strength in numbers is not just an expression. It is truly a reflection of the power of NAWBO. Check out our website and blog to get a taste of the opportunities available to business owners who are serious about growing their business and changing the world.
Wishing you continued success,
Jackie Wszalek
