New peer group to boost small business success

Westchester is home to a strong, established community of small business owners, one that is always growing; yet there are missed opportunities for connection and mutual support within this vibrant group. Research shows that a peer support group can be a major contributing factor to personal and financial success in business. Membership groups like The Alternative Board find that their members are 1.5 times more likely to make a profit than small business owners who are not involved in such groups. 

In order to offer Westchester businesses the benefits of this kind of support, The Purple Crayon, in collaboration with leadership coach Greta Cowan, is launching a new peer group that will provide a support network for local business owners. Cowan is a certified leadership coach who has taught and lectured at Ivy League universities and has worked with top corporations and non-profits. She is an expert on the skills and techniques needed to help professionals realize their potential and translate their values into their work. 

In monthly, facilitated group meetings led by Cowan, members will dive into what it means to be a business leader and explore opportunities for personal growth that will improve their confidence and direction around their professional goals. “It can be lonely being the key decision maker for your business,” says Cowan. “My experience with peer forums is that participants gain invaluable support and insights from others around the table.  Members leave meetings feeling inspired, reenergized, and better equipped to face business challenges.” 

Membership in Peer 2 Peer is by application. Applications are available at www.bit.ly/peer2peerTPC; after submissions are received, applicants will be contacted for an interview. Meetings will begin in October 2013. Members will also have access to one-on-one coaching.