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Philippa Constable
ultimate Member
We Mean Biz & Women Mean Biz
Founder of 2 professional networking organisations, Women Mean Biz and We Mean Biz, networking skills expert, trainer, and speaker.
A bit about me...
The reason I went into business for myself was because I was fed up with the lack of well paid senior jobs which would pay me what I am worth, on flexible working hours, so I could continue to look after my young family.
Going into business on your own is a big step, and I know what it feels like. On my journey, I have learnt alot about running a business and in particular, how to build a business through networking.
My background and skills are in sales, marketing, new business development, account management, & customer service, all gained in different industries from recruitment, print and packaging, top end real estate, and property development.
I set up Women Mean Biz in 2008, because there wasn't a serious networking group which could provide me with the type of support and help that I really wanted.
I'm delighted that WMB has grown from strength to strength, and I get a massive 'buzz' out of seeing the difference we make to our members.
We Mean Biz is a new networking organisation that is modelled on the very successful Women's network, and is for both men and women. We have developed a 'No suits required' theme, to encourage people to feel comfortable about being themselves, as we know it helps to build relationships when people get to know the 'real' you.
I'm excited about the future of WMB - and hope that we can make networking more accessible to all business men and women who wish to develop and grow in a warm, friendly and supportive environment.
My blogs
Online or In Person
by Philippa Constable on 20th Jul 2022
It’s not often we talk about the plus side of the pandemic, but the one thing it did do for us is open up the world of online networking. Before we all went into lock down, networking was very much about leaving...
A bit more about me
What's the most enjoyable thing about your work?
Helping our members and making a difference. I love being surrounded by amazing, inspirational people and it's a privilege to be able to support our members in anyway we can.
What is your vision for your business?
To grow both We Mean Biz and Women Mean Biz across the UK and build a reputation for being the BEST networking and support organisation for both men and women who mean business.
If you could give one single piece of advice to a new start up business, what would it be?
Be sure you have done your market research for your new business and you know that there is a market for your product and service. Then get some people around you who will help you, guide you and support you. But most of all, be passionate about what you do, and be prepared to put in the work and investment required to make your business work. You'll need to be resilient, and have a vision and a plan for where you are going.
Which one phrase or quote sums up your attitude to business life?
Be professional at all times, treat others how you wish to be treated, and strive to be the very best you possibly can. My other mantra is "Do It NOW!"
What do you do at week-ends?
I love spending time with my family and our animals! I have 2 grown up children, Hollie and Sam who are my world. I love to stay fit, take long walks in beautiful places mostly with Lily my black working cocker spaniel, dining out, and spending time with my partner Phil, friends and family.
What book are you currently reading?
I like to relax and read novels and I've always got one or two books on the go at any given time. My fav's are The Kite Runner & Girl with the dragon tattoo series.
What is your worst experience in business or work?
When I was told by my boss that I would not get the promotion I was hoping for, because as a woman, I was likely to leave at some stage to have children! So they gave the promotion to a chap who joined the company at the same time as me! That's when I left to go and work on a kibbutz! I wish I knew my rights and was not so naive, but this was 30 years ago now and things were a bit different back then.
What was your first ever job?
My first full time job was as a Grade 1 clerk working for one of the high street banks. I worked there for 2 years and left to work and travel in Israel and Egypt.
Where is your favourite place in the world and why?
New Zealand ... I lived here for 4 years and love the country! More recently travelled to Peru, and felt that Macchu Picchu is probably one of the most beautiful and spiritual places on earth (in my opinion).
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