During a late-summer's Friday lunch, Shannon (Director at inHouse) and I discussed confidence and the role it can play to support the success of women in business. Our conversation sparked the idea for "Biz & Sip - The Confidence Panel," which we were thrilled to bring to life this April at JH LAW's new office in Hamilton.
Biz & Sip - The Confidence Panellists (L to R): Janey from JH LAW, Libby from The Wash Club, Courtney from Deep Dive Division & Shannon from inHouse.
Leveraging Confidence in Business
As we kicked off the event, I had the pleasure of introducing our amazing panelists above and moderating a vibrant discussion on leveraging confidence in business. Shannon emphasised the value of preparation, noting its role in easing anxiety and strengthening business presence.
Libby offered strategies for those feeling less confident, focusing on setting incremental goals and celebrating small successes to build confidence over time.
Courtney explored the impact of social media on business confidence, including its use to communicate your businesses values and leverage social media for business development and growth.
Guests networking at Biz & Sip - The Confidence Panel held at JH LAW's office in Hamilton.
Tackling Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome
Shannon next led our panel to discuss how to manage any self-doubt and imposter syndrome, where Libby shared her insights including a brilliant re-take of the classic "fake it till you make it" to a much more positive "brave it till you make it" approach, highlighting its utility in cultivating a positive and outward appearance of confidence.
I discussed starting my own legal practice at a relatively early age, however using each piece of positive feedback and good pieces of work to help myself build confidence in my business and over-come self-doubt.
Courtney also emphasised creating a supportive workplace culture that encourages openness and collective growth, which is crucial for team members who might be experiencing self-doubt.
Biz & Sip - The Confidence Panel. Glassware & Ice Bucket kindly provided by sponsors, Royal Laboratorie.
Knowing Your Audience and Embracing Failure
The panel recognised the importance of understanding and connecting with the audience. Adapting communication based on audience feedback was discussed as a key strategy for effective business interactions.
Our conversation on failure within business revealed its role as a catalyst for learning and growth. Our panelists shared how embracing failure can lead to significant learning opportunities and pave the way for future successes.
Biz & Sip - The Confidence Panel. Guests networking post-panel including Liz , co-owner of Found Store (Pictured Far-Right).
Addressing External Challenges to Confidence
In addressing external negativity, Courtney discussed strategies for maintaining professionalism and resilience and how such strategies can be effectively delivered from directors to their wider teams.
Libby and Shannon also shared insights on dealing with criticism and the importance of support networks and mentors in building and maintaining confidence in challenging environments.
Beautiful event floral arrangement from sponsors Flora Kai and signage from sponsors inHouse.
What's next for Biz & Sip...?
As the event concluded, we hinted at the next potential "Biz & Sip" event focusing on entrepreneurial journeys.
Huge thank you to Shannon for doing an amazing job putting this event together and our sponsors Deep Dive Division, The Wash Club, inHouse, JH LAW, Found Store, The Bed Depot, Wix’s Lane Co, Flyger, Flora Kai, Abbie Naylor Real Estate, Lykke & Royal Laboratorie.
Last but not least, thank you to our brilliant co-panelists, Shannon, Courtney & Libby. Your time, insights & genuine desire to inspire confidence for women in business is tremendously appreciated and no doubt made this event a success.
Stay tuned for details on the next Biz & Sip!
Photo Credit: inHouse.