BDC: Tell me about your company.
My business, GreenStep.ca, is the embodiment of my passion. We help businesses reduce their environmental impact and increase their profits. Most business owners don’t know that when done right, sustainability can increase their profits by 50% to 80%!
BDC: How has networking with other women entrepreneurs helped your business?
Women face more challenges when it comes to entrepreneurship – especially those with children – so peer support and advice from other women who have been through similar things is invaluable.
BDC: Can you give us an example of a situation that was significant?
When I was in my early twenties, I sought advice from the CEO of a dentist database multinational organization. Not only did she agree to meet with me, she became one of my first mentors. During our first meeting, she also gave me a plaque that hung on her wall that read: Only she who attempts the absurd can achieve the impossible. It still hangs on my wall today.
BDC: You recently participated in BDC's "On parle affaires" workshop. What did you think of it?
The program is amazing. It provides great business advice and most importantly, it is a safe place for women in business to ask questions without feeling judged. You leave the session feeling even more confident knowing that you are not alone in this journey. There is someone else who has been through the same thing and is willing to give you advice.
BDC: Considering the limited time to achieve work-life balance, how do you manage to stay connected with other female entrepreneurs in your network?
I have a close circle of friends who are entrepreneurs and who give me great advice. Also, whenever possible, I participate in networking activities to expand my network to include other amazing women.
BDC: What do you think is the best advice to give to a woman considering starting a business?
Make sure it's something you're passionate about because when times get tough, it's that passion and fire that will keep you going. Also, don't give up, especially if you believe in it.
