SWIBN

SWIBN Goal Setting Workshop with Amanda Scott, Pentacle

2012-01-24T08:22:00.000-08:00

Goal setting is a proven way to help achieve success, so why is it that 80% of small business owners say that they don't use goal setting to drive their business forward? We know just how hard it is running your own business. January starts with wishful hopes to add, reduce and change but the 'phone is ringing and it's your client on the line. Before you know it, you are back responding, delivering and working hard just to catch up. Well it's not too late, it is still January (just!) so why not take the time right now to make 2011 the year you went in the direction you wanted. SWIBN's top 10 things a goal needs to stand the best chance:
1. Be written down
2. Be visible
3. Have a means of measuring progress
4. Have a clearly defined destination
5. Have a target date by which it/they will be achieved
6. Be set without limits
7. Expressed in the present tense
8. Have a tangible reward for achievement
9. Have a defined support infrastructure
10. Most importantly they must be valued/wanted/worth it!

Goals are nothing without a BIG reason why - so we added two more criteria for building your commitment:
1. What strength do you already have that will help you achieve your goal?
2. What will be cost to you/pain of not achieving your goal?And to help you to accomplish your goal, like it or not, accountability is key.Here are some of the promises we made to ourselves at our recent workshop:• Ask a buddy to support you - accountability helps focus the mind!• Open a new discussion on our Linkedin group to post updates• Set aside a time every week to review progress• Read your goals aloud every day ( being visible really helps)• Share thoughts from some of the great writers on the subject - Steven Covey for example and Fiona Harrold/Be your own Life Coach

Sue Bourke getting her message across

2011-11-30T11:36:00.000-08:00

Take a look at this offer from Sue

http://www.productlaunchmethod.net/swibn-shop-local-go-global/

What can David McWilliams do for you?

2011-11-28T02:32:00.000-08:00

For an ideas boost...

I was in the audience in 2009.

David's message on Dec 2nd may be for the people of Carrick on Shannon but I'd encourage you to think about what you could learn too.

See you there!

What about that night out I promised myself?

2011-11-28T02:06:00.000-08:00

What about that night out I promised myself?

Now I work for myself, there's no christmas party...

How am I going to catch up with friends and colleagues?

And like all great multi-taskers, what am I going to cook this christmas?

Wrap it all up and join us for a night to remember on Dec 13th at 7.30pm.

We will be teaming up with fellow SWIBN member, Eithne O'Sullivan at Source Sligo Cookery School.

Tickets: €15.oo per person

Re-educate your marketing mindset

2011-11-14T13:54:00.000-08:00

Susan Monahan is Director of a new "Smart Sassy and Successful Mastery" programme and she will present to Sligo Women in Business live on Tuesday November 29th, Glasshouse Hotel. To book a place click here

Who gets you out?

2011-10-26T02:50:00.000-07:00

Pearce Flannery packed his hour of motivation with practical suggestions for Sligo Women in Business last night.

'Get a sheep dog' was a popular one. Why? Because a dog gets you out, regularly. As important as studying a balance sheet, he maintains.

So here's my motivator, Honey, on the shores of Lough Gill this morning.

Who get's you out? Why not create a gallery of canine motivators - post your pics here.

Pearce Flannery's next; SWIBN event Oct 25th

2011-10-16T10:48:00.000-07:00

What’s next?

Our SWIBN invitation for October is to come and spend an evening with entrepreneur, business advisor and motivational speaker Pearce Flannery

An elite of economic and business thinkers – Pearce has stormed the frontline of public speaking and seminars. Sunday Tribune

The promise?

To empower you to achieve your goals and to liberate your potential. We’re not joking. This is what he does. He helps individuals transform their business and deliver extraordinary results. And luckily he has a track record as long as your arm. Read more on www.pearceflannery.ie

What will it cost?

No cash. Thanks to funding from the County Enterprise Board, the event is FREE. It’s your time as always. And how much for an open mind?

What do you need to do?

Just put the date in your diary. Register online with eventbrite so that we know that you’re coming. And how about inviting a friend who might thank you for a night out and spark of FREE inspiration. (Do we still need to remind you to bring your business cards?)

When: Tuesday 25th October

Where: Glasshouse Hotel, Hyde Bridge, Sligo

Time: 7.30pm to 9.30pm (includes tea and coffee served at the end of the evening).

2011-09-28T03:04:00.000-07:00

Our challenge had been to get 50 people in a room for 90 minutes. We beat that! We are delighted to tell you that last nights event with 61 people (thanks too to BNI Yeats Chapter) demonstrates the level of enthusiasm in Sligo for getting out there to meet people, as a great way to build your business.

Thanks to you all for taking the time to make new connections. Remember it's the follow up that will create the real value from all that noisy work.

If you want a reminder of just how noisy it was - click here for a 17" sound blast.

Thanks to Ruth Daly of Sort It for her commanding facilitation and timely use of a whistle...

Old Fashioned Networking Sept 27th, with Ruth Daly of Sort it

2011-09-12T13:31:00.000-07:00

Why come and network with us? Social media marketing has been a 'game changer' for networking. Suddenly we can network instantly, delightfully and globally, in the comfort of our homes. Networking face to face can seem hard work by comparison. But the question is, can you afford to discount it? Who can underestimate the impact of a warm handshake, a genuine smile, a good listening ear? This is how we start real relationships and being honest, this is how we chose who we want to do business with. Yes, the internet has propelled us forward but at SWIBN, it doesn't replace good old fashioned networking. The SWIBN Challenge: 50 people in one room for 90 mins This is an open invitation: We're inviting anyone who's got/or planning to set up a business in the region. How widely can you cast your net? If you talk to just 10 people (you might know them but you'll have something new to communicate/remind them about) and they share your information with 3 people they know, that's potentially 30 contacts you can follow up right away. Not bad for the cost, which is just 2 hours of your time. This is a FREE event, thanks to the County Enterprise Board. What you need to do: Just come and enjoy yourself. Ruth Daly of Sort it will be running the session, so you're in professional hands. Bring a business card and ideally a friend or colleague (that's your networking already started) Oh, and if you have a premises, we'd love you to put out our flyer and feel free to enthuse others.

National Women's Enterprise Day - first 10 to book go FREE

2011-08-15T00:38:00.000-07:00

Sligo County Enterprise Board supports NWED Conference fee National Women’s Enterprise Day is now open for bookings.

Sligo County Enterprise Board will subsidise the €100 conference fee for the first 10 booking forms it receives from entrepreneurs wishing to attend the event which takes place the 16th and 17th November in Portlaoise Heritage Hotel.

Applicants must be members of SWIBN (Sligo Women in Business Network). Booking forms can be downloaded by following the link below and clicking on ‘booking form’.

Forms can be either e-mailed to info@sligoenterprise.ie or submitted by hand to Sligo County Enterprise Board, Sligo Development Centre, Cleveragh Road, Sligo. http://www.nwed.ie/home/booking-information

BPW National Conference - The Family in Ireland 2011; Challenge or Opportunity

2011-08-09T23:42:00.000-07:00

Business and Professional Women's Association announce the launch of their National Conference on 22nd September 2011, in Galway, at the Meyrick Hotel. BPW Ireland will hold a Conference that explores the Family in Ireland 2011; Challenge or Opportunity.

The line up includes six excellent speakers and the Conference will be opened and MC'd by Mrs Fionnuala Kenny. The Conference will be of interest to parents, older people, families under financial and other strain, immigrant families and professionals engaged with any of these groups. In Sligo we have had an excellent and long relationship with the voluntary work of BPW. We would encourage SWIBN members to support the day, enjoy the opportunity to network with colleagues in Galway and meet new people from all the counties of Ireland.

Great offer of Free advertising in Irish Tatler magazine

2011-08-09T22:37:00.000-07:00

Every month IT run a feature called the Irish Tatler exchange from a chosen county (this month they've picked us in Sligo) in order to support women in business. It's free advertising and national exposure for your business!

All you need to do is send Eleanor Hutch on EHutch@harmonia.ie three things by email:

Your business logo (if you have one)

Your contact details (phone, email, web)

A 20 – 40 word paragraph about your business

Deadline for info by Wednesday 24th August

All types of businesses including accountants, boutiques, beauty salons, florists, food producers are welcome and bigger profiles will go to 4 women who stand out from the crowd.

What are you waiting for?!

Julie Cobbe StyleFish.ie Entrepreneur Event Speaker

2011-07-19T12:34:00.000-07:00

Want to know more about what to wear when you need to impress?
And just how to get yourself on The Dragon's Den?
Should you be thinking about franchising your business? First on our billing on Tuesday 26th July is Julie Cobbe of Style Fish.ie.

Style Fish as featured in Irish Tatler this month. “The Dragons Den answer to Gok Wan!”

Glasshouse Hotel

7.30pm

Bring your business cards.

Members FREE

Social Media business marketing course

2011-07-11T02:24:00.000-07:00

hhhh

Following on the from the success of the May SWIBN Social Media workshop, Sligo Enterprise have offered to run two further series of three half day sessions for the Sligo Women in Business Network.

One of our members, Debbie Woodward from Logis Media is delivering the training course - http://logis.ie/

In our first session, we explored how to use LinkedIn more effectively and also how to setup a YouTube Channel and upload videos for our business. We're looking forward to next week where we will be finding out all about Facebook and Twitter

Members' Night - tell us about your business

2011-06-18T00:20:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all our presenters for making last night a great success. Feedback has been very positive so we will repeat this event.

Odilon Hunt from AVA has offered to do a spot next month with tips for making the most of a '5 minute' opportunity to present your business. Thanks Odilon
Esther Hoad /Ireland West Learning Centre
Nuala McLoughlin / The National Learning Network
Beatrice McDonald/ Caringangels
Lily Murphy/ Blue Heron Coaching
Caroline Clancy /www.facebook.com/pages/Pink-Lime-Video-Productions/195697414178?ref=ts
Teresa Cawley/ Life and Business Coaching
Janine Boyd/Cakewalk
Deirdre McCaffrey/ Integrated Financial Services

Longford WIB - networking event 21st June

2011-05-30T04:13:00.000-07:00

Longford WIB are hosting an enterprise 1/2 day for women in business covering Longford, Sligo, Leitrim, Donegal and Cavan.

There will be a number of women in the Longford area who are new to start-up and they are keen to build their contacts.

You may feel that this is an opportunity to extend your own network and in our experience, events like these are friendly and fun and make building new relationships very easy.

Tickets are 10euros and there is an opportunity to take a stand if you want to up your visibility on the day.

For further information contact Paula Hynes on PaulaHynes @longfordwomenslink.org

Banishing the mystic around Social Media marketing for Business

2011-05-27T11:23:00.001-07:00

FREE workshop for all SWIBN members. Just bring your laptop and get stuck in. Wifi access at The Glasshouse Hotel. See you Tues 31st May at 7.30pm

Thanks to our experts for their tutoring and support on the night
Debbie Woodward - Logis.ie
Susan Monahan Bourke - Flatiron Distribution
Aoife Porter - Bua Marketing
Carolin Collins - Intandem Web Design
Lisa Lomax - Format.ie

Sligo Champion publicises the network

2011-05-27T11:01:00.000-07:00

Sligo Champion publicises the network in an 11 page feature http://www.sligochampion.ie/news/sligo-women-in-business-11page-feature-2659015.html

Meet our networking neighbour in Mayo

2011-04-08T14:08:00.000-07:00

We look forward to introducing our guest speaker, Olwen Dawe, President of Network Mayo and owner of Irish Business Intelligence at our next event, Tuesday 26th April at The Glasshouse Hotel.

This is another free event from Sligo County Enterprise and is open to all working women in the region.

If you are new to Sligo and would like to attend this event, you can contact amandaswibn@sligoenterprise.ie for more information. Or just show up - we'd love to meet you and find out more about your business.

SWIBN showcase a member premises- Sligo Office Supplies

2011-03-17T15:39:00.000-07:00

In 2011 we promised to host a SWIBN event at a member's premises, as a means of profiling and promoting their business. In 2009, Martina Henry invited us into Koko Latte, and in 2010, Brid Torrades hosted us at Tobergal Lane. On March 29th, Joan Ward will welcome us to her new, Sligo Office Supplies premises.

Joan will talk to us about how she (and husband Ronnie) have grown, developed and adapted their business over the years.

Joan's daughter, a physiotherapist will show us why sitting properly on a chair, is important. If you want a seat, she will be looking for volunteers on the night for her demonstration!

The evening will include a lively mix of mega-networking, facilitated by Oonagh - where longer term members will have a chance to meet our new members and vice verser. So don't forget your business cards and expect it to be noisy!

SWIBN set sail for 2011 - creating goals that work/shop

2011-01-31T13:42:00.000-08:00

Goal setting is a proven way to help achieve success, so why is it that 80% of small business owners say that they don't use goal setting to drive their business forward?

We know just how hard it is running your own business. January starts with wishful hopes to add, reduce and change but the 'phone is ringing and it's your clients on the line. Before you know it, you are back responding, delivering and working hard just to catch up.

Well it's not too late, it is still January (just!) so why not take the time right now to make 2011 the year you went in the direction you wanted.

SWIBN's top 10 things a goal needs, to stand the best chance:

1. Be written down

2. Be visible

3. Have a means of measuring progress

4. Have a clearly defined destination

5. Have a target date by which it/they will be achieved

6. Be set without limits

7. Expressed in the present tense

8. Have a tangible reward for achievement

9. Have a defined support infrastructure

10. Most importantly, your goal must be valued/wanted/worth it!

Goals are nothing without a BIG reason why - so we've added two more criteria for building your commitment:

1. What strength do you already have that will help you achieve your goal?

2. What will be cost to you/pain of not achieving your goal?

And to help you to accomplish your goal, like it or not, accountability is key. Here are some of the promises we made to ourselves at our recent workshop:

Find a buddy and ask them to support you
Use monthly business network meetings to give an update
Open a new discussion on our SWIBN Linkedin group to post updates
Set aside a time every week to review progress ( 1/2 hour should be enough)
Read your goals aloud every day (being visible really helps)
Share thoughts from the great writers on the subject - Stephen Covey and Fiona Harrold/Be your own Life Coach

Perhaps you are an old hand at this and we could learn from you. If so, send us a post- we'd be delighted to have all the help we can get.

It starts with goals - your goals. See you on Tues 25th Jan

2011-01-10T14:14:00.000-08:00

Happy New Business Year!

Welcome once again to SWIBN, the network designed to help support you, in your business in 2011.

In January it starts with goals - your goals. And how to get more success from creating them.

Perhaps you've decided to widen your client base, to explore a new market or to increase your online sales?

Our workshop will show you how to turn a desire/aim/want into a well formed goal - where the action and the steps become clear and manifest. On the night you will have the opportunity to work together and if you chose, to share your goals with the group.

Our promise? You will come away with something useful!

We look forward to seeing you on Tues Jan 25th to start sharply at 7.30pm.

Amanda and Oonagh

SWIBNERS - Achievement awards. 2010 Winners

2010-12-04T08:59:00.000-08:00

It's important to celebrate success and awards are one way in which SWIBN can acknowledge the creative challenge that is growing and developing a business. We were delighted to introduce the SWIBNERS and to celebrate all the nominees at our Christmas event on December 14th. We would like to thank all those who participated by telling us who stood out in 2010.

Innovation award Winner: Karin Ward, Kardemumma Tea and Coffees. www.teaandcoffee.ie

Nominees

Susan Monahan; Flatiron distribution; online production creation www.bourkeproperty.ie

Georgina Sleng; Once Upon a Time, celebration cakes and novelty cake designers www.facebook.com/pages/Once-Upon-a-Time

Sabine Walsh; SW mediation http://swmediation.com/

Sarah Healy; The Cake Lady, wedding and novelty cakes and cupcakes.www.sarahthecakelady.com

2.Eco / Green business Award Winner: Patricia Gardiner; Walking Matters which engages communities to improve the quality of walking in towns http://www.walkingmatters.ie/

Nominees

Colette Hamilton; legginit; social training log for runners, walkers, cycliists, swimmers and triathletes http://www.legginit.com/

Prannie Rhatigan; successful launch of her book Irish Seaweed Kitchen http://www.prannie.com/

3. Best Response to Economic Downturn Winner: Brid Torrades; Tobergal Lane, addition of crafts shop and showcasing local food producers, designers and artists www.tobergallanecafe.ie

Nominees:

Shirley Foley; NW physiotherapy, development of social media marketing to build her business en-gb.facebook.com/.../Sligo...Physiotherapy

Rachel Quinn; development of Made in Sligo crafts group www.madeinsligo.ie

Joan Ward; Sligo Office Supplies www.sligoofficesupplies.ie

4. Personal Achievement Award Winner: Susan Monahan; Flatiron distribution and Bourke Property Management

Nominees:

Karin Ward; Kardemumma

Georgina Sleng;Once Upon A Time, Celebration cakes

Grainne Gilmartin; Wellness Centre www.winestreetwellnesscentre.com

Happy Christmas to you all and we look forward to seeing you at our first event of 2011, Tuesday 25th January

SWIBN Christmas event - Tues Dec 14th and how to book

2010-12-04T08:49:00.000-08:00

We deserve a night to celebrate. And let's be honest, when did you last go to the cinema, Oscar style, with the girls?

Welcome to the first SWIBN Cinemobile Awards and movie event!

His & Hers directed by Ken Wardrop, is an enchanting and affectionate appreciation for woman in all her versatility.

A man loves his girlfriend the most, his wife the best, but his mother the longest.” Old Irish Proverb.

Tickets are €18 and to reserve one now, just email oonagh on oonaghswibn@sligoenterprise.ie.

"Going for Growth" programme to run again in 2011. Is now the right time for you?

2010-11-22T03:56:00.000-08:00

I caught up with Paula Fitzsimons at NWED on Friday and here is what she has to say to SWIBN

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2I. The closing date is fast approaching - November 30th. To find out what's involved click www.goingforgrowth.com

Spoils from National Women's Enterprise Day 2010

2010-11-21T23:13:00.000-08:00

Sligo Women in business were inspired by National Women's Enterprise Day 2010.

If you couldn't be there - here are 5 stories of personal determination and action to inspire you at your desk. 5 female business owners putting Sahar Hashemi's principals to the test (http://www.anyonecandoit.co.uk/) Please let us know who and what you liked best?

Alison Ritchie - Polar Ice
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-y0AoW6N9aI
Ann-Marie Durkin - Shasta
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HOk7m6IoNYo
Jennifer Ryan - Ponaire Coffee
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9980k_ZIjmc

Alison Boardman - Unique Voice
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IOzEaLdG5JY
Donna Daly Blyth - Donnas Dance Studio
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lk2lKg9HIM

National Women's Enterprise Day - Nov 18th +19th 2010

2010-11-18T02:50:00.000-08:00

Looking forward to another inspiring day at NWED. Representing the network and their businesses are:

Shona Heffernan, Sligo LEADER

Oonagh McCann, Celtic Croi, celtoicroi.blogspot.com

Sandra Balfe, Strandhill road, Sligo

Ann Campbell, SeaShore B+B, www.seashoreguests.com

Oonagh Monahan, Alpha Omega, SWIBN Facilitator www.alphaomega.ie

Amanda Scott, Change At Work, SWIBN Facilitator, www.changeatwork.ie

Martina Henry, KoKo Latte, Quayside centre, www.kokolatte.ie

Nollaig McKeogh, Atlantis Conversations

Susan Bourke, Bourke Property Management, www.bourkeproperty.ie

Sabine Walsh, Mediation www.swmediation.com

Money Matters - SWIBN event Tues 30th November

2010-11-18T02:30:00.000-08:00

SWIBN meet Women Mean Business on October 26th

2010-10-12T14:20:00.000-07:00

We are delighted to welcome Rosemary Delaney, editor and founder of the unique Irish magazine - Women Mean Business WMB http://www.womenmeanbusiness.com

Rosemary has been involved in publishing for almost two decades as Chairman of the Irish magazine association - PPA Ireland, Director and Executive Member plus magazine representitive on the Press Council Steering Committee.

“Research clearly indicates that women are rising to the higher echelons in Irish and international business. In addition, more women in Ireland are engaging in entrepreneurial activities. This is not surprising as, if we look to our neighbours across the Atlantic the signs are most encouraging. The entrepreneurial boom isn’t just a guy thing! In the last 12 years, the number of women-owned businesses has doubled. In fact, 48% of all privately held companies in the US are at least 50% owned by a woman or women. Encouraging figures indeed"

If you haven't caught one of our events recently, don't miss out on this FREE event from SWIBN.

Bonnie Horsman of New Way Solutions created an interactive evening for members

2010-09-30T02:38:00.001-07:00

Bonnie encouraged us to think about how we can develop our businesses and make ourselves less dependent on depleting resources (oil etc). She highlighted policy coming down the tracks which will make this issue impossible to ignore. Large organisations are making considerable changes. If we are to continue to be their suppliers, we will be expected to meet their new targets which demands that we make changes too.

As consumers, the Shopping Tree exercise (see pic) helped raise awareness of just how far some of our own purchasing travels. The question it raises is, what is necessary and what isn't?

A cake bought in a local farmers market goes up the tree when you consider that you drive 2 miles to the market. What planning changes could mean the option of cycling the short distance?

Potatoes, locally produced, bought in a shop are packed in plastic which comes from where? At what cost?

Ask yourself this.

"What would reduce the ecological footprint of the whole buying process?"

Food for thought indeed.

Thanks Bonnie for your vision, positivity and importantly, your call to action.

Bonnie Horsman - New Way Solutions

2010-09-29T12:37:00.001-07:00

Here are Bonnie's slides from last night. More soon. Amanda

http://slidesha.re/cbcWlW

The Business of Being Green - Tues 28th Sept 2010

2010-09-13T23:21:00.001-07:00

We're now back after August's hiatus and we hope you are too!

We are delighted to invite you to the first of our Autumn events, continuing our speaker series Outstanding Conversations with...

Our next speaker Bonnie Horsman, Director of New Way Solutions is a hands on presenter and a recognised thought leader in the area of sustainability and business. She will speak to us as business women and as stakeholders in our own community. This promises to be a challenging and important event for the network and we look forward to your contribution on the night.

Tues 28th Sept: The Glasshouse Hotel, Sligo: 7.30 to 9.30pm

Harnessing our inner strengths during challenging times

2010-07-30T04:22:00.000-07:00

Shane Martin - www.moodwatchers.com set out to demystify psychology and de-stigmatise mental health vulnerability. Humour and stories are all part of his approach and if some were left disappointed "I was hoping for more happiness tips and techniques", others from the large turnout (33) were well satisfied "Better than an evening with Ardal O’Hanlon – and much more practical!

Thank you Shane for your time. Keep the positive message going. Remember a smile automatically helps your client/customer/colleague to relax. And at no cost!

Key speakers re-ignite Sligo women in business

2010-06-26T02:34:00.000-07:00

SWIBN is delighted to announce the first event in their new monthly programme, entitled “outstanding conversations”.

And at the same time to let women know who to keep an eye out for in the next few months.

For inspiration in June, our first choice is Pádraic O’Máille. To follow, what really makes you happy? meet positive psychologist Shane Martin. On turning your business green, don’t miss leading edge thinker Bonnie Horsman. And for all your queries about press and publicity, meet WMB magazine founder Rosemary Delaney.

Events are monthly - held on the last tuesday, open to all women and free.

SWIBN is funded by the Sligo County Enterprise Board.

What: SLIGO WOMEN IN BUSINESS EVENT:

IN CONVERSATION WITH PÁDRAIC O’MÁILLE

When: Tuesday June 29th 2010

Where: The Glasshouse Hotel, Sligo

Time: 7.30pm to 9.30pm

Questionnaire - what you told us about SWIBN

2010-05-27T12:31:00.000-07:00

Thank you for taking the time to fill in our online questionnaire. And yes, we are listening. Based on your feedback, here is what you need in the coming months.

Trust

41% of you described your level of 'trust' within the group to be higher than other networks. 54% of you see SWIBN's advantage as being a place where you can share ideas, resources and knowledge.

Our objective will be to build on the level of trust, build on your desire to share, by creating more networking opportunities at events and outside of it. Tuesday night threw up some great new ideas so we now have plenty to get started with.

Like-minded

We are a 'women only' group and you seem to like this...describing the positives as supportive, common business issues, recognisable life-styles. However you recognise too that mixing with other groups is good for business.

Our objective will be to plan for a couple of events in which we invite/include other networks (possibly with a few men thrown in!)

Knowledge

22% of you see the network's role to help you build your knowledge/skills and 27% of you see finance as your key need.

Our objective will be to plan two events in which we look at aspects of business finance most likely to be impacting on your ability to plan your business forward.

Commitment

22% of you also see the network's role key role in building your confidence and maintaining your commitment to your business.

Our objective will be to provide space at every event for all members to raise issues, get feedback and communicate news. Watch out you will be called upon to speak!

Who

And finally, nearly half of you admit that what determines whether you come out on a Tuesday night is 'who's speaking'.

Our objective will be to continue to inspire, educate and surprise you with fresh and exciting speakers for the next 6 months.

And finally... finally, we can do our bit to help SWIBN grow but so can you.

Here's your objective:

If you know a great speaker is on the cards, tell a friend, get her to come with you - she could be Sligo's most successful entrepreneur in waiting...she just needs a little encouragement from you.

See you next month - Tuesday June 29th. Details to follow.

Thank you

Amanda

Celebratory meeting- Tues 25th May 2010

2010-05-14T04:29:00.000-07:00

We want to talk about our noisiest networking event yet...and to suggest what you can do to make sure that it is.

Simply this, ask someone to come with you. That way, by the end of the evening new people will know about you and your business.

Need to let them know what to expect?

Here's our plan...

7.30pm We welcome you and we have a few announcements to make
7.50pm You introduce yourself, your business and the person you've brought

to the whole room
8.20pm We'll review your priorities by examining responses to the questionnaire
8.50pm Tea / Coffee - a chance to chat: networking activity 1
9.00pm Group brainstorming: networking activity 2
9.30pm Finish

Re-appointment:
We are delighted to be re-appointed by the County Enterprise Board and would like to thank so many of you for your positive endorsements of our work over the last 12 months. We really enjoy contributing to a re-energised SWIBN and we will continue to bring our own brand of enthusiasm and challenge to you for the remainder of 2010.

We'd also like to acknowledge Liam Kiely at Sligo CEB and thank him for his ongoing commitment to the development SWIBN, for the funding which allows us to offer FREE events for members at a time when budgets are so tight. We owe it to each other to make the most of this resource.

Thank you - Amanda and Oonagh (SWIBN Facilitators)

Recession busting tips from SWIBN

2010-04-28T03:20:00.000-07:00

SWIBN combined forces with Sligo Chamber for a special event on April 27th to welcome EU Ambassador for Female Entrepreneurship, Judy Greene.

Prior to Judy's presentation we asked members for their recession busting tips - "What changes have you made in your business in the last 12 months?" It took just 15 minutes to generate a list of actions taken by Sligo's pro-active business community. Perhaps you are asking yourself what changes you should make in your business? We've created a useful checklist to help get you thinking:-

Money:

Return to the old bartering system
Seek money in advance on certain assignments
Progress payments on large assignments instead of waiting until end
Offer discounts regularly

Managing costs/reducing overheads:

Stop printing statements and email statements at end of each month. Saves on postage and gets a quicker response
Weekly stocktake
Renegotiate rent, reduce staff costs ( reception and cleaning staff)
Only turn on necessary lights
Operate 'just in time' - to reduce amount of stock held
Cancel mobile broadband account - use wireless broadband in office and wireless broadband in public areas

Marketing and new media:

Implement more innovative and personal ways to market the business
Text promotions
Build marketing plan using Facebook, Linkedin and Blogger which is free to promote business
Upgrade website and create a blog
Build profile via TV programmes - i.e Home Chef

Clients:

Go out to customer instead of waiting for customer to come in
Set aside an hour each day to set up appointments in diary
Follow up within a few working days with your recommendations based on review of client needs
Re-visit clients on a bi-weekly basis
Follow-up appointments made when patient is in the clinic
Send out reminder calls for appointments

Pricing:

Focus on core/most profitable part of business
Pricing remains same as 2008/9 - no increases

Training:

More time on training
Cross training

New product format:

Changed photo products - more flexible for smaller sites
Bank loan to change office into apartment

If you have any recession busting tips to add, please don't hold back. If you are reading this blog, we'd like to hear from you. What's working for you and why?

When Many Heads are Better than One

2010-03-30T23:03:00.000-07:00

Mary Whelan of the creativethinkingnetwork in action at SWIBN/ March 30th 2010. Photographs Frances Muldoon

The last 12 months has proved one thing. Members get real value from meeting and sharing ideas. It's not surprising given that many of us work on our own and have limited opportunity to bounce ideas around. Feedback consistently highlights this 'positive group effect'. We invited Mary to run a short workshop to build our skills around 'idea generation' and in so doing, help us to profit from our network's biggest asset.

Mary ran 3 distinct exercises and here's what you liked:

Her Seekers/Finders game. Beneficial and value for money
Workshop was inspiring, practical and fun
Got the brain going - take all ideas (even the wild ones) on board
Ideas came from people in different businesses
Got one great idea from our speed dating
Mary's techniques are new in themselves - would love to work with her again

Could your business benefit from being blitzed by ideas? Mary says it's simple and anyone can do it. The key is to have an open mind and the right attitude - as Henry Ford famously said " whether you think you can or you can't, you're right".

From the newly re-named Sligo Women in Business Creative Network (SWBCN)!

Napkin Sketches and Networking

2010-02-25T22:42:00.001-08:00

Networking in person is all about good conversation but sometimes in that critical moment when we get to say what our business does, we struggle to find a meaningful explanation.

For our February event, in addition to re-running the elevator pitch workshop, we decided to reach for napkins. This time we began to draw out what we do, by sketching. And after that, we used the pictures to get talking - here is Ursula Schweiger at work.

Members' described their understandable fear of drawing " I'm embarrassed to show my results" but this was the only real negative. On the plus side, comments illustrated that informal sketching can help to:

focus and make you think clearly about your business
be specific, less general
made talking more relaxed
more fun
more creative
more associative (a trigger for new ideas)
helps simplify technical processes

Memory: perhaps most important of all, when members were asked what they remember about each other, images it seems, are easier to recall than words.

We'll post a gallery of sketches so that you too can see the range of specialist business operating from Sligo in the North West of Ireland - each drawn on one side of a napkin.

Record attendance kick-starts 2010 for network

2010-02-04T10:06:00.000-08:00

Enough of hearing from outside speakers! Members of the network made it clear they wanted to hear from each other this month.

19 members with just 90 seconds, a slide and a prop proved that being concise is key to getting your message across. Businesses ranged from the traditional - family locksmiths, Alison Smith to the brand new. Bua Marketing was presented for the first time by the talented Aoife Porter.

Did it work? Feedback was overwhelmingly positive "an excellent format and great way to hear about, as well as to promote business". So we've decided to do a re-run in February, with 20 more women business owners competing to get noticed in 90 seconds (that's not long - it's probably taken you just half that to read this blog)

Christmas Cocktail Night with BPW

2009-12-10T12:54:00.000-08:00

23 exhibitors share an evening with Sligo BPW.

Here is what you told us afterwards

What did you like about it?

I loved the whole concept. It was great to be able to actually see what other members of SWIBN did. I feel that it was also a fantastic networking evening for everyone concerned. I really enjoyed the fact that we didn't all disappear off afterwards, most people seemed to stay and socialise

What did you not like about it?

I’m not sure whether much was sold. I know we didn’t sell much but I think that the format probably wasn’t great for selling wine (who’s going to carry it around afterwards)

If we were to run it again, what could be improved/made better?

(1) get everyone to invite 2 people. Offer them something free (nibbles etc) to get a crowd (2)advertise externallly or (3) get hotel staff to tell all guests on that day or day before to come down and look.

Thanks to everyone who was involved, let's take ideas forward for the next time

by Amanda Scott facilitator

Suzanne Kelly talks 'survival' to Sligo's self-employed women

2009-11-29T12:49:00.000-08:00

Sligo Women in Business met on Tuesday 24th November. 37 members came to the Glasshouse hotel to hear guest speaker Suzanne Kelly.

Leading taxation barrister, broadcaster and lecturer, Suzanne offered practical advice - highlighting the essentials for surviving in business in the next 12 months.

"Cash is king, or possibly Queen, considering my audience tonight" she said

In terms of policy, Suzanne presented a 3 point recovery plan. Here is the key point which relates to small business owners (i.e. us):

The self-employed are currently the underdogs of the irish economy. They are denied State benefits accorded to others. Benefits such as pay-related social welfare, optical and dental subsidies and Family Income Supplement are refused to the self-employed. An entitlement to the equivalent amount of annual PAYE credit of €1830 is also declined.

The self-employed number about 220,000 and they are not a powerful lobby group. There are about 120,000 owner-controlled companies, usually a small or family-owned business. Again there is a denial of the PAYE credit to the directors of these companies who are PAYE taxpayers, where the credit can make a big difference to the tax bill on an annual income of 35,000.

Were you with us on the night and have a view you'd like to share? Please feel free to let us have your thoughts. As small business owners how do you think we can build our lobbying muscle? If you have ideas, get in touch.

Thank you to photographer and member Frances Muldoon (071 9177962).

by Amanda Scott Facilitator

National Women's Enterprise Day

2009-11-22T12:20:00.000-08:00

16 members of our network put their best foot forward at National Women's Enterprise Day November 20th 2009, www.nwed.ie.

Jo Fairley told us the story of Green and Blacks chocolate and in doing so illustrated her drive for excellence, intensity and humanity.

Krishne De www.krishnade.com/blog demonstrated the tools we need, to become 'go to' people.

And Paula Fitzsimons, M.C for the event put it up to everyone to consider a vision of growth and expansion for their business www.goingforgrowth.ie.

by Amanda Scott Facilitator

Six month review

2009-11-17T13:39:00.000-08:00

Membership is up 34% in the first 6 months of the newly re-formed Sligo Women in Business Network. With funding from the County Enterprise Board, its free monthly events at the Glasshouse Hotel are busier than ever with late arrivals anxious to find a spare seat. Entrepreneurial speakers and engaging workshops attract even the most time-pressed Sligo Business Women with an average of 35 attending meetings. Networking activities have also gone online. A LinkedIn members group, SWIBN (www.linkedin.com) enables a community of forward thinking business women to network cost-effectively, in their own time. Susan Bourke-Monahan, Burke Property Management says the new online possibilities opening for her are very exciting. Up to date information on all SWIBN activity can be found on www.swibn.sligoenterprise.ie

By Amanda Scott Facilitator

Demystifying Innovation for SME's

2009-10-29T11:13:00.000-07:00

Toby Scott www.pentacle.ie, created a practical 90 minute workshop for members. He focussed on cutting edge innovation techniques that could be applied to small businesses, immediately. Toby is a proponent of User Centred Design thinking and his skills were well matched to members, who are mainly in service businesses. He challenged members to try out new 'customer experience' tools and used everyday examples to build the group's observation skills - did you ever stop to think about how you eat a yoghurt?

identify-observe-involve-try - Toby's mantra for successful user-centred innovation.

Thanks for your feedback:

To see my business from customers’ eyes;

I haven’t learned to observe people that come into my shop and perhaps notice what they do;

By Amanda Scott Facilitator

Sandwiches

2009-09-29T10:55:00.000-07:00

Successful Donegal entrepreneur Jenni Timoney, of Doolittle Foods came to tell us her story. How a cafe owner (with no specific business training) in Donegal town makes and delivers 8,000 handmade sandwiches to 200 outlets around the country, everyday. Just think of the logistics! That's everyday...

Jenni did this in 5 years and made it to the finals of Ernst and Young Entrepreneur. Winning new clients Aer Arann and Topaz, she is one of a small handful of genuine entrepreneur successes.

We were shocked and saddened to hear only 3 weeks later that Jenni's business had gone into voluntary liquidation. In her talk she hadn't hidden the brutal side of managing cash, expanding in an increasingly competitive and price driven market. We wish Jenni well and we fully expect see her back in business again.

by Amanda Scott Facilitator

Sligo women in Business meet Chamber at Lissadell tearooms

2009-09-25T13:54:00.000-07:00

Colourful photos by SWIBN member Frances Muldoon, of a recent network meeting between Sligo Chamber and Sligo Women in Business Network, hosted by Isobel Cassidy at the Lissadell Tea Rooms on Thursday 24th September

Coffee House evening

2009-08-29T10:27:00.000-07:00

Martina Henry hosted an aromatic event at KoKo Latte, Quayside, Sligo. Like all great coffee houses, conversation was the focus for this social summer gathering. To ensure the evening had a business focus, we re-created our Agony Aunt problem solving circles which had been so popular the month before. Members were able to get fresh perspectives on their business needs while offering up new ideas to others.

Help desk: Debbie Woodward www.logis.ie and Cristina Luminea (who kindly created our blog - thank you) our member IT experts, set-up a help desk in the corner of the cafe, for members grappling with how to create a LinkedIn profile and use the SWIBN group for the first time.

By Amanda Scott Facilitator

Social Networking and Conversation Marketing

2009-07-29T09:41:00.000-07:00

Johnny Beirne www.johnnybeirne.com introduced members to social networking and conversation marketing in a masterclass which aimed to highlight the revolution in of 'word of mouse' connections. The event prompted so much interest that we invited Johnny back in September, to do two half-day workshops for 20 enthusiastic members. On the back of this initiative, we launched our SWIBN LinkedIn Group. We are delighted to see so many members engaging in minute by minute social networking activities.

By Amanda Scott Facilitator

John Teeling Chairman Cooley distillery guest speaker

2009-06-29T07:33:00.000-07:00

Nobody disagrees with John Teeling's 4 core themes for entrepreneurship -vision, ability to gather resources, handle risk and uncertainty, energy and determination.

When it comes to discussing risk however John’s traditional view perpetuates the old myth - women, he believes are less likely to take risks and this is one reason we have fewer female entrepreneurs, than male ones he insists.

“ They have an appetite for risk alright, but need to ensure that the level of uncertainty is as low as it can be. Perhaps it’s women’s instinct to protect the nest that influences this! “ Says Oonagh Monahan, facilitator of SWIBN.

Fortunately members took a robust attitude to John Teeling’s pragmatism and commented positively on the key elements they got from his talk. ‘Run with your vision’ said one member and ‘maintain it’. ‘Failure isn’t that big a deal’ said another and finally ‘embrace uncertainty’. A practical note, gender neutral and one we could all do with remembering.

by Amanda Scott - SWIBN facilitator

SWIBN re-launch May 2009

2009-05-29T06:41:00.000-07:00

Photographer Carl Brennan/The Sligo Champion

35 businesswomen created a real buzz at the first meeting at the Glasshouse in May. Terri Scott , President of the IT arrived saying that she didn't have to ask the way, she followed the noise to the top floor. A 'Just a minute networking' activity gave everyone the chance to perfect their 'business pitch'. Linda Moffitt from Vision Interiors, www.visioninteriors.ie commented on what she'd learned from the event: " get the business message across and not to be embarrassed about it". Affirming this Oona Doherty, successful salon owner, www.oonadoherty.com says "be definite in asking for business".

Asked about the benefits of an active women's network in Sligo, Joan Ward of Sligo Office Supplies, www.sligoofficesupplies.ie believes that even if you are established, there are always new customers. Helena Perceval, one half of culinary business venture, Quirky Cooks says the network is ideal for getting women taking about her new Temple House, www.templehouse.ie, cookery demonstrations.

by Amanda Scott Facilitator