Local businesswomen are finding each other and discovering a unique opportunity to share experiences, ideas and ways to connect thanks to the Squamish Women Networking society, which hosts its third event Monday (March 29).
"Squamish Women Networking is about fostering those connections in a town where, other than the Chamber, there's not a lot of other places to meet other business people," said professional life coach Lisa Princic, who co-hosted the second gathering.
"I think that having a place for women is unique and keeps that focused support that's a bit different when it's just women."
The event, themed "the power of a network for women," is focused on discussing the inner and outer circles of people who help women when they need it most. Host Christine McLoed said she's hoping to make the notion of women networking clearer and more attractive.
"It's more than just making contacts," said McLeod. "I could learn a lot from some of these women even if they have nothing to do with what I'm doing."
McLeod is a local entrepreneur who founded Impact People Practices in 2009 with the goal of developing leadership in community, youth, business and self.
"On Monday I'll be talking about a topic that is very apropos for this group," she said. "I think as women we're hardwired to naturally come alive when it comes to meaningful relationships. We're very good at doing that with what I would call our inner circle; our spouses, our best friends, our girlfriends, even our medical practitioners.
Where women are not so comfortable is outside their immediate inner circle, said McLeod, and exchanging information within this circle is networking, but many women don't realize that and balk at the actual word "networking."
"For most women, it conjures up images of super stuffy cocktail parties and really superficial get-togethers where you have to sell yourself," she said. "This doesn't necessarily have to be true."
Princic and former co-host Dr. Amber Kirk, a Squamish-based chiropractor said the first two events in December and January were quite successful with about 25 women between the ages of 20 and 60 attending each one.
She said the information provided is varied.
"We cover broad topics but they are all related to success," said Princic. "From developing the qualities and skill set to be successful in running your own business to maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating properly."
Every event starts off with some food, drinks and casual networking for the first hour before a speaker makes a presentation during the last half hour.
The event will take place at 37971 Third Ave. in the Squamish Chiropractic building. The cost is $10 and sign-up is held in advance by registering online at www.thepowerofanetwork.eventbrite.com. It will take place from 7 to 8:30 p.m. and space is limited.
