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NetworkW O M E N ’ S L E A D E R S H I P

I N S P I R A T I O N T O A C H I E V E Y O U R G O A L S

WRITING by SARAH ELKINS

When we create an environment of comfort, trust, and inspiration, we open the most important opportunities for personal and professional growth.

That’s what Women’s Leadership Network, Helena, is all about.

Our members range from at-home mothers considering or growing a home-based business, to executives with major healthcare organizations and state agencies. The diversity of our members makes this an incredible network of women who support and encourage each other as leaders – no matter where or whom they lead.

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Network

The first time I was invited to host a lunchtime program for WLN Helena, I was asked to speak about taking risks and stepping out of our comfort zones. Walking into a roomful of women has, in the past, been pretty uncomfortable for me. I know I’m not the only woman who has had negative experiences in an environment like this. That’s why I didn’t trust my feelings of comfort and support in my first visit, despite having at least half a dozen friends in the room.

My program ended with a big round of applause, many women expressing gratitude for the session, and even a few referrals for potential clients for my communication coaching business. That’s why, when I was asked to come back a few months later to host a session on building a network on the LinkedIn platform, I was happy to test that feeling out.

The next time I spoke the group was consistent, and an incredibly warm, engaged group of women welcomed me back. I paid my membership fee, joined WLN later that day, and started regularly attending the 3rd Tuesday lunchtime programs.

When Cassie Parr, the WLN President in 2017 asked to nominate me to be her Vice President, I hesitated. Like most women I know, my days are crammed full, with little time to breathe, much less eat and shower. In my 20+ years as a professional, I’ve managed to avoid participation in any group, and any board, but that all changed when I was introduced to this extraordinary organization.

Our community of women meets for a lunchtime program on the 3rd Tuesday of each month, with topics and workshops ranging from personal brand to personal finance, and even an “App Rodeo” of helpful

technology tools to simplify, to leadership and communication strategies. We highlight our own incredible local resources in our new Thriving Thursday members-only events on the first Thursday evening each month, beginning at 5:30. Those sessions are more focused and more experiential, with topics like networking tips & tricks, personal/professional image, dealing with conflict at work, blogging, and public speaking/communication.

A few times a year we organize social events like hikes and movie viewings, wine tastings and creative arts. Our annual conference is a “can’t miss” event; a full day of personal and professional development in a roomful of curious, engaged, generous women. Last year’s topic was brain science; two exceptional women hosted sessions on how the brain works, with strategies to improve and build neural pathways and increase confidence. Participants are still talking about that event, months later. In 2018, our theme is already emerging: Brave Leadership. Mark your calendar for our conference on September 28, 2018!

Join WLN for a Tuesday Fuel-UP lunchtime program, visit the website, call, or email to learn more about this inspiring organization. n

CONTACT: Sarah Elkins

2018 WLN Helena President406-431-0355

wlnhelena@gmail.com