What if you could have an expert advisor for everyday issues?

I've been thinking about the wonderful expertise our presenters will be sharing with you online at our conference this year. I don't think there's a single one of these sessions that doesn't have something to offer me--a middle-aged (well, maybe a little more than that), long-time single divorced mom/grandmom in her own business. But you don't need to be single OR in business for yourself to get real help. We decided to call the conference "Secrets You Wish Your Mom Told You"--because most likely your mom had no clue about these things.

Even though I'm at the top of the proverbial hill (I refuse to be seen going over it), I really need to learn a secret for using networking to gain personal power. I'm terrible at networking. How about you? And as bold as I am sometimes, I would love to learn a new way to turn off my fears. I'm excited at the very idea of learning how to easily package my own existing skills and talents to make money online--even just a little. Could you use some extra money for what you already do? These are the kinds of learning you can get from these presenters.

I urge you to take a look at these classes. Read the program descriptions. Read the presenter bios--these women are top professionals, but they're also real-live women like you and me. They face some of the same junk we do everyday. But they've got powerful ideas for getting past or around or through the muck. Read, think and come get inspired--we've extended the earlybird pricing until July 27, so don't wait.

A bank that's listening

Sat next to an extraordinary woman today. Linda Stevenson almost single-handedly got National City Bank to believe that supporting women as business owners was not only a socially valuable idea (we are so excited about that!) but also a financially sound idea in terms of building business for the bank. Impressive accomplishment---and kudos to the guiding lights at Nat City for opening their minds. Will be inviting her to appear on www.swwan.org/swwan_dive/ soon.

We happened to be sitting next to each other at the Chicago WeDo event---a seminar on Intellectual Property co-sponsored by National City and a number of other companies that strongly support women in business. Met a number of dynamic women business owners, learned about things you should know when your business gets beyond the kitchen table (and maybe before!) including how to think about expanding revenue streams by licensing.

It's enlightening to hear legal and accounting people talk about business planning---perspectives many of us don't think about when we first get rolling. But a recent seminar at another bank-sponsored event was titled, "Begin with the end in mind." So if you want to have a business that can get bigger than just paying the bills, you'll want to think about these things. Check out the National City WeDo tour.

And, oh, yeah, if you're a woman in the Chicago area interested in starting or growing your business and want to talk to a banker, call Meghan Kearns at National City, 773.252.7140.

Single women: reach out and give without asking back

Give with your whole heart. Don't ask for a return. Connect with each other--for business, for all the things we need in life.

That's what celebrants at last night's opening event heard from keynote speaker Sharan Tash, owner of The ProNetworker, Inc., NAWBO Chicago director, NSA speaker, and creator of the "pay-it-forward, boomerang networking" concept. Sharan told of how giving from the heart without thought of return always comes back to you tenfold.

As a shining example of practice-what-you-preach, Sharan, SWWAN thanks you for inspiring attendees at this celebration of the first annual Single Working Women's Week holiday.

Hostess Monica Davis praised single women and single mothers for all they contribute. Thanks to all those who shared in this delightful evening, including sponsors Lynfred Winery and National City Bank. Special thanks to Rebecca Gutermuth, designer of the beautiful SWWAN jewelry line, who hosted the party at her lovely store, Radiance Fine Jewelry.

And special thanks to columnist and authoress Jacquee Thomas whose contributions made the event extra special. Passionate speaking, wine, food, violins, and sharing. It was a beautiful event. For a copy of the event's program, click here. Photos will be posted as soon as we can get them up!

If you live in Cleveland, please join us for our Cleveland SWWAN party TOMORROW!