WIB Conference 2013: Tatiana Kolovou

Tatiana Kolovou is always welcome at Women in Business' annual Conference. Many WIB members have had Tatiana as a professor or have heard her speak at other events, so every year we look forward to hearing her passion and advice. At Conference 2013, her thoughts on feedback -- how to give it and how to receive it -- failed to disappoint. I found her recommendations on how to ask for advice most useful in my own life. Generally, and perhaps luckily, people won’t confront others with criticism unless directly asked. So, instead of asking, “How did I do?” after a presentation, one should ask “What did you think of my transition between the second and third points? How could those two ideas flow better?” By offering context to the feedback-giver, he or she can return specific, applicable, and constructive criticism. Moreover, Taitana’s interactive presentation allowed us to apply our own feedback skills in a controlled environment so we will know how to integrate feedback conversation in the future. Women in Business would like to thank Tatiana for offering us more applicable advice and we hope to see her back again next year!

WIB Conference 2013: Andrea Dowding

Andrea Dowding from Thirty-One Gifts began Conference 2013 inspirationally. Her advice on leading inTENtionally inspired my own state of mind throughout the rest of the day. Moreover, Mrs. Dowding reminded us all of some humbling truths that will help us excel as we begin our careers: Women interact differently than men, not better or worse, just differently. They rely on stories, compassion, and connection to inspire themselves to excel. Mrs. Dowding emphasized that the only way to succeed is by recognizing how to thrive. Her ways to live inTENtionally include:

1. Know what you’ve got

2. Decide how you’re showing up

3. Walk with intention

4. Be curious

5. Be courageous

6. Share your stories

7. Find a sponsor/Be a sponsor

8. Redefine power

9. Build your community

10. Promote parity in our collective community

Above all else, Mrs. Dowding emphasized how important being yourself is. Although the phrase is used frequently, Mrs. Dowding’s thoughts on leading inTENtionally refreshed its meaning. Knowing who you are, where you're going, and how you will act along the way makes all the difference. Women in Business would like to thank Mrs. Dowding and Thirty-One Gifts for their participation in WIB Conference 2013!