Corporate Partner Corner
Special benefits and offers from our corporate partners for NAWBO members.
5 Unconventional Ways to Motivate Your Team
In the quest for peak business performance, motivating your team emerges as a perennial challenge. Traditional incentives like bonuses and
promotions have their place, but there’s a broader spectrum of strategies that can energize your team in more profound and sustainable ways.
NorthStar Strategic Partners stands not just as your “business consultant near me” but as your ally in the quest for exceptional
business success, promising not just guidance but a transformation that aligns with the highest standards of excellence and profit maximization. Our
commitment to driving your success is grounded in the 4 Points of FocusTM
Motivating your team effectively is a key component of that Point of Focus. We can help you guide your strategy in this important aspect of
your business.
A business consultant can move your team’s focus beyond the paycheck
Here, for example, are five unconventional tactics that could transform your approach to team motivation, highlighting real-life examples that illustrate their potential impact.
1. Job Rotation: A Fresh Perspective Allowing employees to switch roles or departments temporarily might seem counterintuitive, but it’s a practice laden with benefits. It breaks the monotony, fosters skill development, and injects fresh enthusiasm into daily tasks.
Real-life Example: Pixar Animation Studios is known for encouraging its employees to take on different roles within the company. This approach not only prevents creative stagnation but also promotes a deep understanding of the business from various angles, ultimately enriching the work produced.
2. Idea Contests: Valuing Creativity Creating a space where employees can suggest improvements or new project ideas and rewarding the best among these fosters a culture of innovation. It sends a powerful message: every team member’s input is valued.
Real-life Example: Google’s 20% Project allowed engineers to spend 20% of their time on any project they chose. This not only led to the creation of some of Google’s most famous products, such as Gmail and AdSense but also significantly boosted employee motivation and creativity.
3. Workplace Wellness Programs: Health as Wealth Investing in your team’s physical and mental health demonstrates a commitment to their well-being beyond office hours.
Real-life Example: Zappos, the online shoe and clothing retailer, offers its employees wellness programs that include anything from weight loss competitions to marathon sponsorships, emphasizing the company’s commitment to its employees’ health and happiness.
4. Reverse Mentoring: Bridging Gaps This unique approach pairs younger employees with veterans. The exchange benefits both sides; experienced staff gain insight into new technology and trends, while the younger generation absorbs wisdom and industry knowledge.
Real-life Example: Procter & Gamble (P&G) implemented a formal reverse mentoring program to help senior executives stay up to date with technological advances and social media trends, showing that learning is a two-way street.
5. Transparency: Sharing the Vision Regularly sharing key business metrics and updates with your team fosters a sense of ownership and shared purpose. When employees are kept in the loop, they’re more likely to invest themselves in the company’s success.
Real-life Example: Buffer, the social media management tool, takes transparency to the next level by openly sharing everything from salaries to equity, thereby promoting trust and a strong sense of community among its workforce.
NorthStar can guide you to motivational success
These tactics extend beyond mere motivation; they’re about creating an environment where employees feel valued, engaged, and part of something greater than the sum of their job duties. The benefits of such an approach are manifold. Engaged employees are more productive, more innovative, and more likely to stay with your company over the long term.
Adopting these unconventional methods requires a shift in perspective and a willingness to experiment. However, the rewards— a dedicated and motivated team, driven not just by personal gain but by a commitment to a shared vision—are immeasurable.
Strategies for motivating your team should be as dynamic and diverse as the individuals that make up the team itself. By exploring these unconventional avenues, you lay the groundwork for a work environment that thrives on creativity, mutual respect, and shared success. Your business might not just achieve its targets but could redefine them altogether.
Developing the quality and dedicated team building needed to achieve your business objectives is one of the biggest challenges you might face as a business owner. It is a challenge you must succeed in, however. Your team is central to the value of your company. No level of business consulting or financial consulting will help if your team is not aligned, supportive, and productive. It is the fabric of maintaining long-term customer relationships, and it gives you your best chance at top operational effectiveness. The tactics in this area include attracting the right talent and training the talent that you have.
NorthStar Strategy Partners has the expertise to deploy a proprietary assessment tool that will give you immediate information on how your team compares to your industry’s standard and their ability to implement best practices. We help you develop a comprehensive recruiting, training, and incentive program to identify and retain the key team members you need. By following the NorthStar—your Polaris—our partnership illuminates the path to not just meeting your business objectives but exceeding them, ensuring that your corporate voyage leads to unparalleled success and long-term prosperity. Ready to start?
President’s Message | May 2025
Dear NAWBO Sisters,
As we step into May, we find ourselves at the beautiful intersection of reflection and forward momentum. The first half of the year may have brought challenges, surprises, and breakthroughs—but more importantly, it has shown us just how resilient and resourceful we are as women business owners.
Spring reminds us that growth takes root quietly and steadily. And now, as the days grow longer and brighter, it’s our time to bloom.
This month, I encourage each of you to pause and take stock. Celebrate how far you’ve come since January. What goals have you advanced? What new relationships have you built? What opportunities lie just ahead?
At NAWBO, our mission remains clear: to support, elevate, and connect women entrepreneurs. Whether you’re scaling your business, building a team, launching a new idea, or simply trying to find more balance, this is a space where you’re seen, valued, and championed.
Let’s lean into the power of community this season. Show up. Speak up. Reach out. The more we support each other, the higher we all rise.
Here’s to new growth, shared wisdom, and the vibrant energy of May!
With appreciation and optimism,
Wendy Roberts, CPA
President, NAWBO Silicon Valley
wendy@northstar-sp.com
www.northstar-sp.com
#NAWBOSV #NAWBO
How to Know If Your Business Is Truly On Brand (With Real Examples)
What Does “On Brand” Actually Mean?
(And Why It Matters for Your Business)
You’ve probably heard the phrase “stay on brand” more times than you can count.
Maybe you’ve even used it yourself. But let’s be honest—do you actually know what it means?
If not, you’re not alone.
As creatives and business owners, we tend to use this phrase often, assuming everyone’s on the same page. But the reality is, most people don’t fully understand what being “on brand” means, and that confusion can hurt how your business is perceived.
Let’s clear it up—and more importantly, let’s talk about why it matters.
the jargon trap
As designers and creatives, we get caught in our own language all the time. “On brand” is one of those terms that sounds simple but often gets lost in translation.
When we ask, “Is this on brand?” we’re not trying to sound exclusive or vague—we’re genuinely trying to assess how well all the pieces of your business are working together to present a clear, cohesive identity.
But if your audience (or even your team) doesn’t understand what that means, your message can get lost. And when your message is unclear, it’s a lot harder to build trust.
That’s why being “on brand” isn’t just for designers—it’s something every business owner should understand and strive for.
so… what does “on brand” actually mean?
Being “on brand” means showing up consistently across all the platforms and touchpoints where someone might interact with your business.
And by platforms, we’re not just talking about your Instagram and website. A platform is any opportunity a customer has to come across or engage with your brand. That includes:
- A flyer or brochure
- Your email newsletter
- A packaging label
- An Instagram Story
- A vendor booth at a market
- Your LinkedIn profile
- The tone you use in DMs or customer service replies
Wherever your brand shows up, it should feel like the same business is behind it—visually and verbally.
Being “on brand” means your logo, color palette, typography, imagery, messaging, and voice are all aligned and consistent. When these elements work together across platforms, they create a cohesive, memorable experience for your audience.
why brand consistency matters
Brand consistency isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about trust.
Let’s use a real-world example: McDonald’s.
What comes to mind when you hear that name?
- Golden arches.
- “I’m lovin’ it.”
- Dollar menu.
Now imagine if every location had a different-colored logo. Or different packaging. Or completely different menu items.
You’d probably hesitate before walking in. You might even wonder, Is this the real McDonald’s? That tiny moment of confusion breaks trust—and trust is everything when it comes to attracting and keeping customers.
This is why consistency matters: it makes your brand feel familiar and dependable. Studies have shown that maintaining brand consistency can increase revenue by up to 23% (Lucidpress/Marq). It tells your audience:
- You’re reliable
- You’re intentional
- You care about the details
- You know who you are and what you offer
And here’s another important stat: It takes about 7 interactions with a brand before someone makes a purchase or decision. That’s 7 chances to either build recognition—or create confusion.
If each touchpoint feels disjointed, your audience may lose interest before they ever convert.
examples of brand consistency in action
Let’s look at how some of the most recognizable brands show up consistently—so consistently, in fact, you can probably guess the brand before you even see the name:
- “Just do it,” the swoosh, and bold athlete-focused messaging = Nike
- Golden arches, red and yellow colors, global menus, and that jingle stuck in your head = McDonald’s
- Colorful sticky notes that everyone calls by one name—even if they’re from another brand = Post-it®
- Ask for one when you need a tissue—because everyone calls it that = Kleenex®
- You don’t search for something—you “____” it = Google
These brands didn’t build that kind of recognition overnight. It happened through years of consistent visuals, tone, and messaging across every single touchpoint.
And while your brand might not be a household name (yet), applying this same consistency in your own way helps your audience feel confident that they know—and trust—you.
how to tell if you are on brand
Not sure where your brand stands? Start by asking yourself:
Do my visuals look and feel the same across print, web, and social?
Are my colors, fonts, and imagery being used consistently?
Do my posts, emails, and captions sound like they’re coming from the same person (or people)?
If someone discovered me on Instagram, would my website feel like a natural next step—or a totally different experience?
If you hesitated or answered “not really” to any of those, you’re not alone.
Most businesses evolve over time, and it’s normal to feel a little scattered—especially if you’ve rebranded, changed direction, or built things in pieces. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be cleaned up.
not sure where you stand? i got you.
If you’re feeling unsure about whether your brand is truly consistent, I’ve put together a free On-Brand Checklist to help.
It’s a simple guide to help you audit your visuals, messaging, and tone across every platform where your brand shows up.
Getting clear on your brand will help you show up with more confidence—and make it easier for the right people to recognize, trust, and connect with your business.
Angela Laines
angela@silveiradesigns.com
Founder & CEO
Silveira Designs
https://www.silveiradesigns.com/
Respecting Your Risk Tolerance in Entrepreneurship
A Jungian Perspective on Business Decisions in Uncertain Times
In recent clinical work with my patients, I’ve noticed a recurring theme: entrepreneurs reevaluating their tolerance for risk.
Some are responding to external political and economic shifts like recent changes in tariffs; others are tuning in to the changes brought on by their personal life stage.
One patient, a business founder, described how becoming a mother again dramatically shifted her relationship with risk. What once felt like a thrilling challenge now seemed reckless in light of her needs to support an expanding family.
What stands out is that different individuals have different needs when it comes to decision-making. Rather than constantly pushing ourselves to be bold and embrace risk, I believe we need a more balanced approach—one that respects our personal and psychological rhythms.
This blog is an invitation to tune in to your inner compass and make decisions that are aligned with your deeper values. From a Jungian perspective, this is part of building from the Self, not just from ego or external ambition.
Risk Tolerance Is Fluid, Not Fixed
Risk tolerance isn’t a trait you’re born with and keep forever. It evolves as you grow and change. Your current life circumstances, emotional bandwidth, and recent experiences all affect how you relate to risk. What felt empowering a few years ago might now feel destabilizing.
A founder in her twenties might be energized by jumping into a volatile market. That same person, now navigating family responsibilities or chronic stress, might feel overwhelmed by the same situation. Honoring these shifts is not weakness—it’s wisdom.
In Jungian terms, this kind of internal awareness reflects the lifelong process of individuation—the journey of becoming more whole and integrated as a person.
Life Transitions Change the Way We Relate to Risk
Big life transitions—such as parenthood, illness, or relationship status changes—often awaken a deep instinct to protect, preserve, and slow down. These changes affect how much risk we’re willing or able to take.
In Jungian language, these instincts are connected to the feminine principle—not about gender, but about the archetypal energies of care, containment, and cyclical wisdom. This principle teaches us that tending to life, not just expanding it, is just as valuable.
If you’re in a season of caregiving, reflection, or healing, it makes sense that your approach to business would be different. Building from this place can create more sustainable and resilient entrepreneurship.
Respecting the Inner Compass Instead of External Pressure
In Silicon Valley and other competitive ecosystems, there is enormous collective pressure to pursue high-risk, high-reward strategies. Ambition is celebrated, but often without enough regard for what that ambition is costing us.
Business will always involve some level of risk. But the question is: are you taking a risk that is yours, or one that’s being driven by comparison, fear, or external validation?
When you take the time to reflect on your inner relationship to risk, uncertainty, and fear, you begin to make decisions from a grounded place. Entrepreneurship becomes an authentic path, not a performative one.
In Jungian terms, this means learning to distinguish between your persona (the mask you wear to meet external expectations) and your true Self. The more you live from your Self, the more authentic your business path becomes.
The Shadow Side of Forcing Yourself
When we override our deeper needs and force ourselves to push through, we start to suppress parts of ourselves—our fear, fatigue, or uncertainty. These parts don’t disappear; they go underground into what Jung called the shadow.
The shadow eventually emerges, often in the form of burnout, anxiety, or emotional reactivity. If we’re not aware of what we’re hiding from ourselves, those hidden parts end up sabotaging us.
The work begins with self-awareness—naming and acknowledging the parts of us that feel resistant, afraid, or unsure. Then, with intention and compassion, we can begin the process of shadow work: integrating the disowned parts of our psyche so they no longer control us from behind the scenes.
This isn’t just therapeutic—it’s strategic. You’ll make better business decisions when you’re not in internal conflict.
Entrepreneurship as a Lifestyle of Freedom and Responsibility
Entrepreneurship is often romanticized as a lifestyle of freedom—and it can be. But freedom always comes with responsibility. When you choose to forge your own path, you also choose to take on risk.
The key is to be conscious of how much risk you’re truly able and willing to carry. If you ignore your personal limits—emotional, financial, physical—that risk will eventually backfire on your health and well-being.
As entrepreneurs, we’re not just managing businesses—we’re managing ourselves. Understanding your risk tolerance isn’t optional; it’s part of your job. Tuning into it allows you to take healthy risks while protecting what matters most.
Choosing Wholeness Over Comparison
In a world that rewards speed, growth, and boldness, it takes real strength to move at your own pace. Slower growth or conservative decisions aren’t signs of failure—they can be acts of self-respect and integrity.
Sometimes, the most powerful move is not expansion, but integration. Taking time to reflect, to work through your fears, or to heal before making big moves is not a delay—it’s leadership.
As the CEO of your business and life, working on your own self-awareness and psychological integration is part of your duty. You are not only growing a company—you are growing a life.
Let that life be authentic, aligned, and whole.
Meng-Ju(MJ) Yang, Founder and Licensed Psychologist
Inner Journey Psychology, Inc.
Email: mjyangpsyd@gmail.com
Website: drmjyang.com
https://www.facebook.com/InnerJourneyPsychology
https://www.instagram.com/innerjourney.psychology
https://www.linkedin.com/company/innerjourneypsychology
President’s Message | April 2025
Dear NAWBO Silicon Valley Sisters,
As we step into April, the energy of spring is all around us—renewal, growth, and transformation. It is a reminder that in business, just like in nature, each season brings its own opportunities to plant new seeds and prepare for the abundance ahead.
As women business owners, we face both the fresh promise of what is next and the real challenges of today’s shifting economy. But we do not just survive—we adapt, innovate, and lead with purpose. Whether it is refining our services, leaning into new partnerships, or embracing bold ideas, we are uniquely positioned to thrive.
Now is the time to prepare for summer’s momentum. Let us support one another, showcase each other’s strengths, and lean into the power of our collective wisdom. Together, we can turn short-term uncertainty into long-term prosperity.
Wishing you continued courage and clarity as you grow your business this season.
In strength and solidarity,
Wendy Roberts, CPA
President, NAWBO Silicon Valley
wendy@northstar-sp.com
www.northstar-sp.com
#NAWBOSV #NAWBO
Visibility is Vital: Why Showing Up Grows Your Business
In today’s competitive business environment, visibility is more than just marketing—it’s a strategic advantage. For women entrepreneurs, being visible helps your business stay top of mind, builds trust with your audience, and opens doors to growth opportunities that may otherwise remain hidden. Showing up—whether through public speaking, social media, strategic partnerships, or community events—positions you as a thought leader in your space. It signals to clients, collaborators, and investors that you are serious, credible, and ready to add value. Visibility allows your business to stay relevant in a fast-paced marketplace and increases your chances of being referred, remembered, and respected. At NAWBO Silicon Valley, we encourage our members to be bold and intentional about how they show up. Every time you share your story, contribute your insights, or attend an event, you are planting seeds of connection that can blossom into meaningful relationships and business growth. Visibility isn’t about being everywhere—it’s about showing up in the right places, with purpose, and with your unique voice. Don’t just be in business—be seen in business. Stay visible. Stay intentional. Stay connected.
Leena Mendoza, M.S., ACC
Business Strategist & Executive Coach of Intentional Leadership
Entrepreneurship Through a Development Lens
Embracing Growth at Every Stage
Entrepreneurship is often seen as a leap of independence, but it’s also a deeply developmental journey. Just like human growth, business evolution unfolds in stages, each with its own challenges and purpose. Drawing from my background as a former child psychologist and now a Jungian-oriented therapist for adults, I explore how early developmental frameworks can offer powerful insights into entrepreneurial growth. This blog post invites women entrepreneurs to reflect on their own business paths through a more compassionate and holistic lens—one that honors uncertainty, embraces transformation, and sees each phase as necessary for long-term resilience. Whether you’re just starting out or navigating a transition, this piece reminds us that our inner journey is just as important as external success.
Meng-Ju(MJ) Yang, Founder and Licensed Psychologist
Inner Journey Psychology, Inc.
Email: mjyangpsyd@gmail.com
Website: drmjyang.com
https://www.facebook.com/InnerJourneyPsychology
https://www.instagram.com/innerjourney.psychology
https://www.linkedin.com/company/innerjourneypsychology
5 Succession Planning Considerations Every Business Owner Should Contemplate
Streamer HBO presented a very successful television series called Succession for five years. The show won a huge audience and numerous awards. The plot centered on a fictional family atop a fictional media company. The plot focused on the patriarch of the family, and head of the company and who of his children would inherit the business.
Without the satire and high drama of the show, it highlighted a theme that every business owner should be considering. “After me…. who?”
NorthStar Strategic Partners is the business consultant that can guide you in this important decision-making
Succession planning is a critical component of any successful business strategy. By proactively identifying and developing future leaders, businesses can mitigate risks, ensure a smooth transition of leadership, and safeguard their long-term viability. The potential detriments of not having a succession plan are significant and can have far-reaching consequences for the organization.
It is a strategic process to identify and develop potential successors for key positions within the organization. It involves identifying critical roles, assessing the skills and abilities of current employees, and developing a plan to ensure a smooth transition of leadership when necessary. This proactive approach helps businesses maintain continuity, mitigate risks, and safeguard their future success.
Without a well-defined succession plan, businesses face several potential detriments. Firstly, a sudden departure of a key individual, such as a CEO or a senior executive, can lead to significant disruption and uncertainty. This can negatively impact morale, productivity, and overall business performance.
Being caught unaware may result in a rushed and poorly executed transition process, potentially leading to the appointment of unqualified individuals or a power vacuum. This can compromise the organization’s ability to adapt to changing market conditions and seize new opportunities.
Without a clear succession plan, the business may struggle to attract and retain top talent. Prospective employees may be hesitant to join an organization that lacks a clear leadership pipeline and career advancement opportunities. The lack of a plan can expose the business to various risks, including financial instability, loss of market share, and damage to its reputation. A poorly executed transition can erode trust among stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, and investors..
Here are the five considerations that NorthStar Strategic Partners recommends you think about as your strategy for your company:
1. Identify Critical Roles: Determine which positions are essential to the business’s continued operation and success. This may include key leadership roles, specialized technical positions, or roles that require unique knowledge or skills.
2. Assess Current Talent: Evaluate the skills, experience, and potential of existing employees to identify potential successors for critical roles. Consider their leadership abilities, industry knowledge, and alignment with the company’s values and culture.
3. Develop Specific Succession Sub-Plans: Create individualized development plans for potential successors to address any skill gaps or areas for improvement. This may involve formal training programs, mentorship opportunities, or exposure to different aspects of the business.
4. Consider External Options: If there are no suitable internal candidates, explore external hiring options or consider acquiring another business.
5. Communicate the Plan: Clearly communicate the succession plan to key stakeholders, including employees, board members, and investors. This will help ensure a smooth transition and maintain confidence in the business’s future.
Without a clear succession plan, the business may miss out on valuable opportunities for growth and innovation. A strong leadership team is essential for driving strategic initiatives and navigating complex challenges.
For small or medium sized business owners on the trajectory of growth, there has to be thoughts of who the heir apparent of the company will be. NorthStar Strategic Partners and our 4 Points of Focus® can lead you through the crucial factors to consider, help you weigh your options, and ultimately steer your company toward the succession strategy that aligns with your end-game ambitions.
For those ready to transition from financial chaos to streamlined financial success, reaching out to NorthStar Strategic Partners for a discovery consultation is the first step toward transforming aspirations into tangible outcomes. Embark on your financial reformation journey today and unlock the potential to not just survive but thrive in the competitive business world.
For more information on how NorthStar Strategic Partners can revolutionize your financial strategy and propel your business forward, visit our website or reach out directly to schedule a personalized consultation. Our team is committed to crafting customized solutions that align with your unique business needs, setting the stage for sustainable growth and profitability. Join the collection of satisfied customers who have transformed their financial narratives through our expert guidance. Leap into financial empowerment—contact NorthStar Strategic Partners today.
Wendy Roberts
CPA, CEO of NorthStar Strategic Partners, Inc.
Email: wendy@northstar-sp.com
Website: https://northstar-sp.com/
Entrepreneurship as the Process of Individuation
Answering the Call to Fulfill Your Destiny
There comes a moment in many successful careers when the external markers of achievement—title, income, prestige—no longer feel like enough. Something deeper stirs, a quiet yet persistent knowing that there is another path waiting to be taken.
In my work as a psychologist, I have spoken with many professionals from renowned Silicon Valley companies who, despite their accomplishments, feel an undeniable call to create something of their own. This is not merely a career shift—it is a psychological transformation, a process Carl Jung called individuation.
Individuation is the lifelong journey of becoming one’s true self.
It is not about achieving external success but about integrating the many parts of ourselves—the rational and the intuitive, the known and the unknown—into a cohesive whole.
Entrepreneurship, for many, is not just a professional pursuit but a profound act of self-integration. It is the moment when the call to adventure becomes too strong to ignore, when the individual must step beyond the familiar structures of corporate life and into the unknown.
The Inner Conflict: Security vs. Authenticity
For those on this path, the first stage often involves an internal struggle.
The security of a stable paycheck and an established identity within a respected company can feel impossible to leave behind. Yet, the pull toward something more meaningful—something that aligns with a deeper sense of self—creates a tension that cannot be resolved by logic alone.
This is the moment when many begin to realize that entrepreneurship is not about chasing trends or financial gain, but about answering a personal calling.
Archetypes Along the Way
Jungian archetypes appear throughout this journey.
The Seeker emerges first—the part of us that longs for something beyond conventional success.
Then, the Rebel or Outlaw may surface, challenging societal and familial expectations.
Later, the Creator takes center stage, building something uniquely reflective of one’s essence.
These archetypes do not replace one another but coexist, guiding the entrepreneur through different phases of growth.
The Dark Night and the Breakthrough
Leaving behind a familiar identity can be disorienting. Many entrepreneurs face a “dark night of the soul,” a period of doubt, uncertainty, and fear of failure.
Yet, this darkness is not a sign of misstep but a necessary part of individuation. It is in this liminal space that the old self dissolves, making room for something new. When the breakthrough comes, it is not just a business that is born—it is a fuller, more integrated self.
Entrepreneurship as a Path to Wholeness
For those who feel this calling, entrepreneurship is not merely about professional independence—it is about wholeness.
It is the process of bringing one’s inner world into reality, of turning vision into form. Society often defines success through external measures, but true fulfillment arises when one’s outer work aligns with the deepest aspects of the inner self.
This journey is not for everyone, but for those who embark on it, entrepreneurship is the process of individuation—a journey to your unfolding of destiny.
Meng-Ju(MJ) Yang, Founder and Licensed Psychologist
Inner Journey Psychology, Inc.
Email: mjyangpsyd@gmail.com
Website: drmjyang.com
https://www.facebook.com/InnerJourneyPsychology
https://www.instagram.com/innerjourney.psychology
https://www.linkedin.com/company/innerjourneypsychology
President’s Message | March 2025
Dear NAWBO Silicon Valley Sisters,
As we step into March, we celebrate Women’s History Month, a time to reflect on the incredible contributions of women in business, leadership, and beyond. It is also a time to recognize our own journeys as women entrepreneurs—our resilience, determination, and the impact we make in our communities and industries every day.
At NAWBO Silicon Valley, we continue to foster a powerful network of women business owners who support, uplift, and inspire one another. This month, I encourage you to take a moment to acknowledge how far you have come, celebrate your achievements, and set bold intentions for the future.
We have exciting events and initiatives ahead that will help you grow your business, expand your network, and access valuable resources. If you have not already, be sure to join us at our upcoming events where we’ll connect, collaborate, and continue driving success together.
I also invite each of you to reach out to a fellow woman entrepreneur who might benefit from our NAWBO community. Together, we can strengthen our collective voice and create even greater opportunities for women in business.
Thank you for being part of this incredible organization. Let us make March a month of empowerment, progress, and celebration!
With gratitude,
Wendy Roberts, CPA
President, NAWBO Silicon Valley
wendy@northstar-sp.com
www.northstar-sp.com
#NAWBOSV #NAWBO
International Women’s Day 2025
On March 9, 2025, I had the incredible opportunity of representing the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Silicon Valley at the International Women’s Day Networking Event hosted by Rotary District 5170.
It was an evening filled with powerful conversations, meaningful connections, and a shared commitment to uplifting women in business and leadership.
From engaging with like-minded professionals to hearing from an inspiring panel of women leaders, the event reinforced the importance of women supporting women—not just on International Women’s Day but every day.
Let’s keep the momentum going beyond International Women’s Day—because when women support women, we all rise!
—Griselda Quezada-Chavez, Past President, Corporate Partner Directory, International Affairs Director
B2B Success With Amazon Business
Join Tonia Chagnon from NAWBO HQ and Lois Rouder, Senior Partner Manager at Amazon Business, for an insider look at the tools and strategies her team has developed to help Amazon Business sellers grow—with a focus on small and diverse sellers, sustainable products and the Buy Local initiative. In just 15 minutes, you’ll learn about Amazon Business (where B2B lives on Amazon.com), the shopping experience and how to leverage it to connect with new customers as you scale and grow.
NAWBO Silicon Valley Highlighted in National Leader News
March, 2025
NAWBO Silicon Valley Communicates Collaboration, Support, Mentoring and More to Win Members
Chapter President Wendy Roberts and Membership Director Robin Fisher share the strategy and best practices that put them on top during the last Membership Campaign:
What’s so special about NAWBO and your chapter that you communicate as part of your Membership Campaign efforts?
Silicon Valley: Collaborating women business owners, a supportive environment, mentoring opportunities, promoting sisterhood and advantages of being a NAWBO member both locally and nationally.
What was most effective in attracting new members this past fall?
Silicon Valley: Personal networking, outreach to current and past members, social media such as LinkedIn, membership events and promoting the advantages of membership at our monthly meetings.
Did you do anything differently this year that you plan to do again for the Spring Campaign?
Silicon Valley: We are going to use the same strategy that we used for the Fall Campaign. It has been very effective.
Now that your chapter has grown your members, what’s one best practice you can share about retaining them?
Silicon Valley: Continuing to ensure we involve them in the conversation, spotlighting them in our newsletter, reaching out to invite them to our events and ensuring every woman knows she is supportive and respected.
Harbir Bhatia Power 100 Recognition
Celebrating Harbir Bhatia
The Silicon Valley Business Journal has recognized Silicon Valley Central Chamber CEO (and NAWBO SV member), Harbir K. Bhatia, as one of Silicon Valley’s Power100 individuals shaping the region alongside other exceptional leaders!
Described as a “nontraditional leader committed to creating social impact and tackling pressing societal issues head-on, often by leveraging public-private partnerships.” Harbir Bhatia is a civic entrepreneur at heart.
Her leadership, dedication, and vision continue to drive innovation and positive change in our community. She stands alongside other exceptional leaders making a lasting impact.
Join us in congratulating her with all the Power100 on this well-deserved honor!
Janice Edwards
Mastering Your Media Presence: A Five Key Guide for Women Business Leaders
In today’s digital-first business world, your media presence isn’t just an add-on—it’s a vital leadership tool. After conducting over 12,000 interviews with leaders and celebrities and coaching countless C-suite executives, Janice discovered that success leaves clues. The most impactful leaders realize they are the star of their own life’s reality show—and they know how to use that mindset to achieve extraordinary results.
Janice shares five keys to becoming the star of your own reality show:
Connect to Your Passion and Purpose
Align your media presence with your deeper mission. When you lead with purpose, you naturally inspire others and attract aligned opportunities.
Craft Your Message
Every star has a signature story. Create a message that resonates, influences, and drives action—whether in a boardroom, on camera, or with stakeholders.
Prep for Your Inner Selfie
True presence starts within. Build the confidence, clarity, and authenticity that make you camera-ready from the inside out.
Cut Bad Guests from the Roster
Be strategic about who and what gets airtime in your life. Set boundaries, choose the right opportunities, and know when to say “no.”
Get Ready for Lights, Camera, Action
Preparation meets opportunity. Be ready to shine in any professional setting—from media interviews to keynote speeches.
Download the eBook at . For more on elevating your media presence, contact CARE@THEJANICEEDWARDS.COM.
As women business owners, it’s time to amplify your voice and lead with impact.
Edwards Unlimited Media
Janice Edwards
Contact: care@thejaniceedwards.com
President & CEO
thejaniceedwards.com
care@thejaniceedwards.com
P: 866.433.8658
President’s Message | February 2025
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
Dear NAWBO Silicon Valley Members,
As we step into February, a month often associated with connection, celebration, and warmth, let us reflect on the power of unity and shared purpose within our wonderful NAWBO chapter and organization.
This year, we are committed to creating opportunities that empower each of you to reach new heights in your business journey. February is also a time to honor the progress we have made as women in business and the possibilities that lie ahead Whether it is forging new partnerships, discovering fresh ideas, or overcoming challenges, let us remember that our greatest strength is in the network we have built together. I encourage you to use this month to reconnect, refocus, and recommit to your personal and professional goals.
Plan to attend our upcoming events, reach out to fellow women business owner members, and take full advantage of the resources available to you. Together, we will make 2025 a remarkable year of growth and success.
Here is to a month of thriving connections and meaningful progress.
With warm regards,
Wendy Roberts, CPA
President, NAWBO Silicon Valley
wendy@northstar-sp.com
www.northstar-sp.com
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