5 Ways to Network Impactfully for Women Entrepreneurs this March

Isn't technology great when it works? I am writing this newsletter from the air, returning from a productive work trip in beautiful Vancouver. Taking a minute to look at my schedule for the next few weeks, I couldn't help but notice that my calendar for March is filling up - and unfortunately, I find myself having to be selective about commitments I choose to attend or support. As we approach International Women's Day in March, the spotlight intensifies on women's achievements and challenges in the entrepreneurial landscape. This period, rich with opportunities for connection and growth, also bears the weight of 'pinkwashing'—a term used to describe surface-level support for women's issues that lacks depth and genuine commitment. In navigating this landscape, it's crucial for us, as women entrepreneurs and women in business, to be strategic and intentional in our networking efforts. Our approach to building relationships and forging alliances must reflect our unique strengths and challenges. Here are five ways to network impactfully and authentically during this month:

1. Establish Clear Objectives: Clarity is key before entering any networking opportunity. Identify what you hope to achieve—be it finding a mentor, expanding your customer base, or sourcing investors. With clear goals, you can navigate networking events and platforms purposefully, making every interaction count. Personal tip: saying no to opportunities that don't align with your goals is OK. You don't need to be everywhere! And if you're filling your networking calendar just so you can post about it on social, it might be time to reevaluate where your energy is going. I say this without judgment, as we've all been caught in this trap... I learned this the hard way when I realized my energy levels were not limitless.

2. Seek Out Value-Aligned Networks: In a sea of pink-washed events, look for forums and gatherings that offer genuine support for women entrepreneurs. These are spaces where your values align with the organizers and participants, ensuring that the connections you make are rooted in mutual respect and shared goals. I also aim for platforms that make space for diverse voices and are rooted in genuine equity.

3. Embrace Collaborative Networking: Women network differently than men, focusing on building relationships and fostering community over transactional exchanges. Leverage this by seeking out or creating networking opportunities that encourage collaboration, mentorship, and shared learning. This could mean participating in roundtable discussions, joint ventures, or mentorship programs specifically designed for women entrepreneurs.

4. Utilize Digital Platforms Strategically: Digital platforms offer a myriad of networking opportunities, especially for women entrepreneurs who face barriers in traditional, male-dominated networks. LinkedIn, female-focused networking apps, and online communities can be powerful tools for connecting with peers, mentors, and potential partners who share your entrepreneurial spirit and ambitions. **Hint: when working towards establishing your own personal brand, LinkedIn should be at the top of your list of channels. That's where you'll engage the easiest and fastest with a broad network of professionals -- INCLUDING men who still hold a lot of the decision-making power. More on this soon!

5. Celebrate and Amplify Other Women: Networking isn't just about what you can gain; it's also about what you can give. Use the month of March to celebrate the achievements of fellow women entrepreneurs. Share their stories, recommend their services, and introduce them to your networks. This culture of support and amplification enriches your network and strengthens women's collective power in business. At The Brand is Female | Femmes de marque for instance, we're spotlighting women who are invested in supporting OTHER women during the month of March. Come network with us in Vancouver on March 14th, and Montreal March 27th and meet leaders who are invested in creating new opportunities for all women around them.

JOIN US IN VANCOUVER ON MARCH 14: meet Sonja Baikogli Foley and Jen Murtagh, ACC, CLC, Co-Founders of Maturn for an exchange about navigating maternity and profession. Whether you're a mom and/or you run a business, you'll leave away with actionable insights to help you make the most of your workplace experience, through the lens of gender equity.

All details and sign-up here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/851795271587?aff=oddtdtcreator

JOIN US IN MONTREAL ON MARCH 14: meet powerhouse CEOs Tiffany Callenderof FACE Coalition and Geneviève Tanguay of Anges Québec for a discussion about capital-raising for women in business.

All details and sign-up here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/851861299077?aff=oddtdtcreator

As we navigate the opportunities and challenges of networking during International Women's Month, let's approach each interaction with intention and a clear understanding of our unique strengths. By moving beyond the confines of the 'old boys club' (which we don't have access to anyway) and embracing our collaborative, relationship-focused networking style, we can forge meaningful connections that propel us toward our entrepreneurial goals.

See you in March I hope!

Until next time,