It is so refreshing to be able to talk with other new entrepreneurs about concerns and triumphs in business because there are few other people who can understand. It is also great that we can have an interchange of ideas. -Florence Amundson, Mystic Dreams, Kamloops BC-
Betty-Ann Thomson, B.A. Thomson Consulting, Kelowna
When Betty-Ann Thomson first launched her consultancy, she was excited about the prospects, but couldn’t have envisioned where the business would take her. All she knew was that she had the skills and experience to start projects, bring them to completion and be responsible for all the pieces in between. Now, 17 years later, Thomson has facilitated over 900 business start-ups, coached corporate executives and even spent a number of years marketing saltwater fishing resorts.
“The work is often challenging, but I have the background and the depth of experience to implement what I recommend and am confident about the outcome,” says Thomson. “Keeping my work new and fresh is fun and allows me to be leading edge; but always encourages learning and sharing – the people side of the business is a must have for me!”
It’s that attitude with which Thomson has built strong relationships and kept her consulting business strong. “Listening and being open to suggestions is imperative for any business. Learning to appreciate why people have done what they have will give you a leading edge in building trust and will allow you to move forward more confidently and with compassion.”
These lessons are ones that she learned from her own mentor who sadly passed away a few years ago. However, as a co-worker, a friend and a mentor to Thomson, he was able to instill advice which continues to be imparted to others.
“Peter demonstrated enormous enthusiasm for life, saw the positive side to any situation, and taught me that although we all make mistakes, this is how we grow, learn the lessons and become “better”, says Thomson. “I want to be remembered as he was: a person who influenced others not only by the knowledge he shared but how he treated them.”
Thomson will be doing just that as she leads a Peer Mentoring Group in Kelowna and helps women, new to business, overcome some of their more pressing challenges.
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