“Be clear about your business offer and your aims and work out exactly how you’ll achieve these,” was the advice from self-made millionaire Esher-based Karen Megranahan at the Elmbridge Women in Business (EWiB) www.ewib.co.uk meeting on Thursday 11 June at Silvermere Golf Complex, Cobham, where a panel of Surrey women experts answered business topics from members and guests. Karen’s other advice was to be the best and concentrate on quality of service and looking after your existing clients.

Other panellists included Liz Labrum, hypnotherapist and NLP practitioner; Karen Skidmore on Internet marketing and know how and Fiona Humberstone on branding and design. Over 30 local businesswomen attended the session from a wide cross section of businesses and services.

Liz Labrum’s suggested that working on maintaining the right mindset would avoid wasting effort, disappointment and keep you on track. She answered questions on staying focused, motivated and not letting rejection get in the way. Some of her suggestions included tools to change your state of mind in seconds.

Karen Skidmore’s knowledge on using the Internet for marketing was much in demand at the meeting. She explained autoresponders for the uninitiated and how the new trend in on-line social marketing can be good news for all businesses. Karen also suggested that Twitter a new micro blogging platform can boost your exposure and increase your fan base.

Fiona Humberstone gave insights on the power of branding and its potential to put your business ahead of the crowd. She advised on the need to be clear about what you want your business to mean to customers old and new. One nugget of advice included reviewing all your business-related communications to ensure they all relay the same branding and message.

Elmbridge Women in Business (EWiB) aims to provide information and skills to its members, as well as providing an opportunity to network and socialise. There are regular meetings every month (except July and August) with speakers. Other benefits include inclusion in the Members’ Directory and links with other business organisations. Membership costs £75 a year.

For further information, please visit the web site www.ewib.co.uk