Pink Link is helping women in business to stay in business
When the coronavirus crisis hit, Pink Link had to cancel over 40 events in a week. It looked as though business would grind to a halt but you know what they say - you can’t keep a good woman down! They’re doing what they do best – thinking in heels and adapting.
Whether you are working from home or in the office, in stilettos or slippers, Pink Link is helping female entrepreneurs to stay connected, share knowledge and advice, and promote their business. Within two days of the government's announcement, they had moved their local networking meetings online and days later they introduced a series of free masterclasses to help women professionally, physically and emotionally. As well as serious topics such as debt management and legal advice they have many more available including yoga for all (including the kids), nutrition advice and digital marketing.
Coral Horn, founder of Pink Link said “Each year, thousands of women network through our events. It was heart wrenching to hear from so many women who suddenly saw the possibility of their business dreams turning to dust. I decided to take positive action. It’s essential for businesses to get creative and do things differently to survive this crisis and to come through the other side intact. Our Pink Link ladies are fantastic, they are working together to support and motivate each other.”
The new style networking meetings have seen business generated across the miles. Ideas are shared and collaborations formed with new and existing connections. Whilst previously Pink Link's customers had been predominantly from the North West, more women are joining from all over the United Kingdom, expanding the reach and creating new business opportunities for both the company and their members.
It's not all serious business though - when the annual trip to Ladies Day at Aintree was cancelled, the fascinators, frocks and fizz didn't go to waste as Pink Link held their own #FabulousFriday online in their Blackpool meeting. It even caught the attention of BBC's North West Tonight and was featured on Channel 4's 'A Day In The Life' programme.
Libby Blackwell of the Preston Marriott said “Flexibility is key. Work through the fear and look at how you can help the community. Our customers will remember those businesses who showed understanding and empathy. We’re already talking to Coral about another conference – in the future.”
Pink Link's advice to female entrepreneurs is to use this time proactively. Review your business and finish those tasks that you never had time to do. Connect with your customers and stay visible by sharing content. If you're still open for business, advertise the fact and let people know. This is a great opportunity to be a market leader and a positive voice. Sow the seeds for the future and plan your exit strategy to revive your business. Dust off your trainers - you'll need to be ready to hit the ground running when we get back to business. It may be a different world out there but the opportunities for success will be plentiful and exciting!
One last thing, the 2020 Enterprise Vision Awards are open and they're looking for winning women - take time to enter yourself or nominate an amazing woman.
