When Lyndon and I founded Tier One Solutions three years ago, we were intentional about becoming a women- and employee-owned business. For us, it was a reflection of our values and a commitment to our employees and clients, not simply a gimmick to earn a pretty badge for our website.
As a woman whose career has spanned many decades (don’t ask!), I deeply value the role of women in leadership. Early in my career, it was rare to have mentors who were women, or women in the executive suite to learn from. I was fortunate to be mentored by a forward-thinking man who believed strongly in supporting women in business. That experience gave me the confidence to lead with intention and a desire to never ignore my responsibility to mentor others along the way.
One of the highlights of my career was being named a Path to Purchase Women of Excellence Award winner for Mentorship. That recognition meant a great deal, and in fact, it was one of the catalysts for starting Tier One Solutions and pursuing Women Business Enterprise (WBE) certification.
I am proud to share that Tier One Solutions has just renewed our WBE certification for the third year. We could not be more honored to be part of this incredible community of women business owners.
To be a WBE-certified business opens the door to so many opportunities, experiences, and community. I am supported and respected by my fellow WBE’s and corporate supporters. The leadership of WBENC and their affiliate RPO’s and corporate partners are forces of nature – no other way to describe these women!
Because every good post needs a list, here are a few things I have learned as a WBE Founder:
- Participate – Show up. Attend the programs, webinars, and events you can manage.
- Network – Introduce yourself to everyone in the room and follow up on LinkedIn.
- Be visible – Use your “Women Owned” badge proudly across your marketing.
- Mentor – Pay it forward by helping other women-owned businesses navigate certification.
- Appreciate the rigor – Certification isn’t a box-checking exercise. It requires strong governance, financial documentation, and compliance; and that’s something to be extremely proud of.
And finally – CELEBRATE! You have achieved something very few business leaders will ever be able to do! Thank those who supported you on your journey and never ever underestimate what you have accomplished.
If you are considering WBE certification, I am always happy to share my experience. Feel free to reach out to me directly on LinkedIn. I am also working on a practical guide to certification, which I am pleased to pass along. I believe in leading through Values In Action, and this means helping and mentoring others along the way.
For more information on obtaining WBENC Certification, reach out to Cynthia Ward via LinkedIn or directly at Cynthia@T1Solutionsgroup.com
