Business West’s Women in Business Platform, ConnectHer, has been rapidly growing in popularity! ConnectHer really has multi-purpose objectives. We aim to create space for women in our wider business community to Connect, Collaborate and Champion each other. We are truly proud to say that these objectives are certainly being met and it’s evident in the success and feedback from the events of the last season.
We hosted our second ConnectHer Business After 5 event (which sold out within a few days!) and women in our wider business community certainly brought the vibe!
‘The ElevateHer Pitch’ has quickly become a favourite part of these events and a way we can champion women in business. This is a fantastic way to directly discover what people are doing, to understand their business and the direction in which they are moving. Naturally, this then breeds connection and collaboration – which is exactly what ConnectHer values.
It has been phenomenal to receive such positive feedback from these events. So many comments have centred around how ‘safe’ people feel, how authentic and warm everyone is and how supported people feel to present themselves and their business to the group. It has also been fantastic to hear of collaborations happening out there as a result!
So much constructive conversation was happening around support that would be of benefit. Around understanding AI (whether you like it or not!) personal branding, financial literacy, public speaking, impostor syndrome, confidence and understanding workplace dynamics. We were listening! We have some exciting events coming up with ConnectHer which will address all of these, watch your inbox!
We love to hear what you are doing in your business, as well as what support you think would be of benefit.
If you would like to do an ElevateHer Pitch at our next event (it’s not compulsory!) but you’re a little nervous, here are a few tips for you:
1. Know Your Core Message
Focus on the essence of your business. Talk about who you serve and the value you bring. When you speak on this with clarity, it makes it easy for the audience to understand your business quickly and remember it.
2. Highlight Your ‘Why’
This taps into the authenticity of what you do that everyone really enjoys hearing about. This is explaining the motivation behind what you do and what drives you – this is really interesting for the listener.
3. Craft a Strong Opening and Closing
An audience loves a bold statement, joke or surprising statistic – and it’s a great way to start! It doesn’t need to be a huge, big deal, but if there’s something unusual about your business or industry you can share, it definitely makes you memorable.
4. Tell a Story
People really connect with stories. If it works for you, a story can be a great way to introduce yourself and your business, even as part of your presentation.
5. Just Be Yourself!
Mistakes and stuff-ups are welcome here! Regardless of your presenting experience (or lack thereof!) know that you’ll be supported and appreciated for sharing more about your business – we are here to support you.
Financial Literacy is something that the ConnectHer initiative is committed to supporting and we will soon be launching an event around this. Emma Monaghan from Forsyth Barr will be our leading financial expert for this and brings such a wealth of knowledge.
Emma is a committed supporter of women in business and is a major champion and supporter of ConnectHer. We are excited to get this one off the ground and extend our gratitude to Emma and Forsyth Barr for their continued support.