Women's Business Connections group off to a strong start

Women’s Business Connections (WBC) officially started meeting in
January.  The group is a new arm of the Muskego Chamber of Commerce.  Their
mission is “To provide networking, support and educational opportunities for
local women engaged in all aspects of business to share resources, experience,
best practices, information and ideas while supporting the purpose of the
Muskego Chamber of Commerce.”

The group initially started as a local chapter of the national Joy of Connecting organization in 2009.  Beth Schmitt, founder, saw a need for a women’s group with the goals of networking, building relationships and promoting their businesses.  The group met for lunch in Beth’s home and each woman had 3 minutes to showcase her business or discuss something else she wanted to share.

In late 2012, a partnership was formed with the Muskego Chamber of
Commerce.  There are now tri-chairs to the group: Beth Schmitt, Gail Levin and Deborah Skurulsky.  In addition to networking and relationship building, the group will provide training, education and knowledge sharing. 

The first meeting, January 22, was attended by 30 women, including Mayor Kathy
Chiaverotti and Chamber executive director Tina Weiss.  Tina presented an informative presentation about maximizing the benefits of chamber membership and using the chamber website to promote your business.  Each woman in
attendance was given one minute to succinctly introduce themselves and their
business.  New relationships and committees were formed.

The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, February 20th, 11:45 am-2:00pm at the Muskego Public Library. Members of the Muskego Chamber are welcome to join WBC.  All women are welcome to come give it a try before deciding to join.  Please register at http://www.muskego.org/pages/WomensBusinessConnections/ if you would like to attend.