FEMALE entrepreneurs have a new outlet to share what their business has to offer with networking events starting in Billericay.
Jo Curtis, 49, who already runs networking events for women in Brentwood and Leigh-on-Sea, has set up the business network for Billericay. The events will give women a space to champion their businesses among other local businesswomen.
Miss Curtis lives in Leigh-on-Sea with her partner and will be starting the Billericay group today (Wednesday, March 27).
The meetings will be taking place at the Magic Mushroom Restaurant, Barleylands Road, from noon for two hours on a monthly basis.
She said: "We hold our meetings at lunchtime because we want to avoid the usual testosterone-fuelled 7am meetings.
"This time seems to work better for women who may have children and prefer a more convenient time to meet."
Miss Curtis explained that the events are for women but male-ran businesses can still be represented.
She said: "We have all sorts of women who come along, including electricians, solicitors, accountants, image consultants and travel agents."
She added: "Many women who first join are quite shy and it's great to see them come out of their shell after a few meetings."
Before working for Women in Business, the larger group which runs networking events across the country, Miss Curtis worked as a wedding photographer.
She said: "I was keen to take up a new opportunity when I stopped my career in photography. I was a prolific networker and this role seemed ideal for me.
"I believe in the power of word of mouth and think it is the best way to get your businesses out there."
The meetings cost £24 per head which includes lunch and refreshments.
E-mail jo.curtis@wibn.co.uk or call 0845 1255 318.
