The Year of Women in Business has started in Ennis
Ennis, February, 14th, 2016 - Local Enterprise Office Clare held the first of a series of women in business networking events on Tuesday February 23rd. Guest speaker Maria Kelly spoke to a large group of focused and successful business women. The network which has grown in numbers over the last number of years is testimony to the fact that female specific supports have been successful in increasing the number of female Entrepreneur’s in Ireland. The LEO Clare women in business network has a diverse range of female entrepreneurs across varying sectors including: hospitality, retail, manufacturing, craft, food, tourism and new comers at early stage start up. The network welcomed back loyal members and greeted new members to the group. Collectively the business that were in attendance at this event employ in excess of over 450 people collectively, and this figure continues to grow.
The presentation highlighted the importance of developing a business growth strategy. “Most small business owners are too busy or are too close to their business to objectively assess it. But small firms have great advantages over larger firms when it comes to knowing their customers and being able to satisfy their needs. All they need is to get their plans down on paper. All strategy is, is a roadmap to success,” said Maria Kelly, Guest Speaker. Maria underlined the importance of communicating the strategy internally within the business and with all stakeholders who are part of the organisation to create a culture of growth within a company.
Maria’s presentation was followed with break out sessions, where delegates had an opportunity to take part in round table discussions where everyone had discussed personal topics with their peers. “Networking is not only about doing business but sharing information. Our network has a fantastic range of business with lots of experience and skills. This is what makes networking different to training, peer learning and support plays a huge part,” says Theresa Mulvihill, Smart Marketing Ltd.
The event provided an excellent opportunity to stand up and promote individual business. Key advice was shared by Maria Kelly. “Think through the layers when you think about your customers” – Maria encouraged all the women in the room.
Local Enterprise Office Clare supports women in business through a number of ways, one of which is the women in business network. The network provides women in business with a forum to network openly, share business contacts, knowledge and experience. For more information regarding future Local Enterprise Clare Events, please visit https://www.localenterprise.ie/Clare/ or e-mail: localenterprise@clarecoco.ie or call 065 6821616.