Education:
B.A. Business & Management & Professional Communication (double major), 1982
M.Ed. Instructional Design/Organization Development, 2004
What I do: I provide consulting services for nonprofit and for-profit organizations. I started my consulting firm in 1999 when my $52K job was eliminated by my employer, who then became my first BDP & Associates client.
Consulting services include the following: organization assessment and prescriptive solutions & training; workforce development with youth and adults (employability & life skills training); organization development (leadership, staff development, team development, strategic planning); and instructional design (education program design, development & evaluation).
How I got my job: Being pushed out of my job in 1999 forced me to examine my future and goals. I chose to pursue owning my own business, which was a life goal I set during my undergrad experience at Alverno. I decided that I would simply do for myself what I had been doing for more than 15 years for employers. My last employer became my first client and gave me a “jump start” in business for myself. I stayed actively involved with the College as a teaching assistant, assessor and Alumnae board member which provided a wealth of networking opportunities. I joined a couple of community boards which further connected me with opportunities. My business has grown most from “word of mouth” and referral.
How I use my Alverno education: My Alverno education, both undergrad and graduate levels, has propelled me personally and professionally. The competencies, knowledge, skills, and confidence gained through my education and relationships have been the foundation for my growth and development as an employee first and then as an entrepreneur. I am the “life long learner” Alverno encouraged and supported me to be using my knowledge, skills and abilities in all that I do.
How I define career success: I define career success not by my title, tax bracket or my degrees but by the enjoyment and satisfaction I feel in the work I do with others. My company tag line, ‘CONNECTING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE,” speaks volumes to my success when my clients’ feedback confirms that I have made a difference in my work with them. I view my work not simply as a career but a “calling.” In terms of my business success, I consider myself successful when clients call me back (repeat business) and when they positively refer me to others.
Tips from the field: If I could offer any tips that might be helpful I would first tell my Alverno sisters to “KNOW THY SELF” through and through because then you know what you are really made of and what makes you happy in work and life. LISTEN TO YOURSELF before you accept anything that others have to say to you or about you.
Recognize that while the old adage, “it’s who you know” is true in networking success, it’s more important to recognize that “IT’S WHO KNOWS YOU” that really makes a difference in networking success. I know a ton of people but it has been the few people who know me and my work that have put my name out there in the community in a positive way and generated business for me. So get out there and meet and greet. Stay connected to positive environments of people and activities that fuel your passions and interests.
VOLUNTEER! VOLUNTEER! VOLUNTEER! Serving provides connections, a forum for using your skills, abilities and knowledge and establishes a network of people who know you.
And finally, always work to “SHARPEN THE SAW” keeping your knowledge and skills upgraded. Invest in yourself from time to time.
