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March 9, 2011 (Rancho San Diego) – How do you start a small business? What are the secrets to landing government contracts? Where can you get free advice on building your business? How do you land lucrative consulting jobs? Those topics and more were addressed at the Rancho San Diego-Jamul Chamber of Commerce’s most recent session of its Women’s High Education Entrepreneurial Leadership program.
The event included a tour of Deering Banjo Company in Spring Valley, where Carolina Bridges, public relations director, gave tips on marketing—plus free banjo lessons to all students. Bridges encouraged the aspiring entrepreneurs, noting that Greg and Janet Deering started their banjo-making business at their home 35 years ago. “The company expanded out of passion and dreams,” she said.
Today, Deering is world famous for its fine-quality instruments. Secrets to success have included marketing to niche consumers and changing with the times—moving from a print to an e-mailed newsletter and using social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook to promote products. New products, such as an electric banjo, slide banjo, and six-string banjo tuned like a guitar, have helped grow the business. So has promotion by famous artists, as well as trademarked secrets and attention to fine craftsmanship and detail. The company stakes its claim on being the largest maker of American-made banjos in the world.
Friday’s WHEEL program also included presentations by several other successful entrepreneurs. Alan Landers, president of FirstStep Strategies, revealed secrets from his highly successful management consulting career, which has included Fortune 500 companies such as General Motors, AT&T, Microsoft, and more.
Mike Johnson, president/CEO of Lorimar Group revealed tips for landing government contracts including opportunities available for small businesses owned by women, veterans, minorities or the disabled.
Karen Hamilton, business consultant with SCORE, discussed opportunities for small business owners and those seeking to start a business to obtain free business counseling.
Holly Andrews, T3W Business Solutions, gave advice on pitfalls to avoid as well as other tips for business owners.
Jeanmarie Luker, owner of Connect Direct in Rancho San Diego and day chair of Friday’s WHEEL program, offered information on types of business models and the advantages/disadvantages of various set-ups such as sole proprietorship, partnerships and corporations.
Next month’s WHEEL program will feature a “Media Day” at KGTV Channel 10 News, an ABC affiliate.
Though tailored to help women develop leadership and entrepreneurial skills, the WHEEL program is open to everyone. For more information on costs and details of the WHEEL program, visit www.rsdjchamber.com or e-mail chamber@rsdjchamber.com.
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