By Kelli Gallagher, DeeZee Manufacturing
The SBN Women’s Leadership Forum (WLF) has been an incredible resource for many women in leadership roles, providing a space for personal growth, skill-building, and networking. But what happens when you take it a step further and bring your team along? I’ve witnessed firsthand how attending WLF together has transformed our workplace dynamics, and I want to share why it’s been such a game-changer.
The Impact of Attending WLF as a Team
When I first brought a team to WLF, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But one thing became crystal clear: the camaraderie that formed between the attendees. It’s amazing how the forum provides the opportunity for women in similar roles to connect on a deeper, more personal level. You start to realize that, no matter what industry or company you’re from, we all face similar challenges. This shared understanding builds a sense of unity and support that extends well beyond the event itself.
Why I Recommend WLF and Promote it for My Team
I truly believe WLF offers a wealth of opportunities for those who attend. Here are the top reasons why I continue to bring others with me:
- Opportunity for Self-Focus
For three days, attendees can step away from their busy work lives and focus solely on themselves—an opportunity that is hard to come by! Whether it's reflecting on their leadership style, discovering new ways to handle challenges, or simply learning how to manage stress, this time for personal growth is invaluable.
- Enhancing Leadership Skills
WLF isn’t just about learning new things—it’s also about refining the skills you already have. Many attendees come with a wealth of leadership experience, and the forum helps them enhance those skills, giving them a broader range of tools to use back in the workplace.
- Team Building with Other Women
One of the best aspects of WLF is the chance to connect with other women in similar roles, not just within your organization, but across the industry. These relationships extend beyond networking and can lead to long-lasting mentorships, collaborations, and friendships.
- Increased Industry Awareness
Through seminars and workshops, attendees gain a deeper understanding of the aftermarket accessories industry and the vital role organizations like SEMA play. This is important not only for individual growth but for understanding how to position yourself and your team more effectively within the industry.
- Self-Reflection
Sometimes we need a moment to pause and think about how we’re growing as leaders, colleagues, and individuals. WLF gives attendees the opportunity for self-reflection, allowing them to assess where they are and what they still want to achieve in their careers.
The Power of Team Building: Bringing a Group vs. Sending One
Sending just one person to an event can be valuable, but there’s something incredibly powerful about attending with a team. The experiences, discussions, and insights shared among teammates during and after the event often lead to profound workplace changes. Traveling together, attending seminars, and then reflecting on those sessions as a team can spark conversations that directly impact the way we work and communicate back at the office.
The "Accountability Buddy" Effect
One of the most beneficial aspects of attending as a team is the built-in accountability. It’s easy to let lessons learned slip away when you’re on your own, but having teammates who are equally invested in applying what they’ve learned creates a built-in support system. For example, Desiree and Abby, who attended WLF together two years in a row, have become “accountability buddies.” They push each other to improve on the leadership and communication skills they learned, ensuring that the growth they experienced at WLF translates into real change at Dee Zee.
Conclusion: A Worthwhile Investment in Your Team
Ultimately, bringing a team to WLF is more than just a professional development opportunity. It’s a chance to build stronger bonds, promote accountability, and create lasting change within your organization. For those looking to empower their teams and invest in their collective growth, WLF is a truly transformative experience that’s well worth the investment.
Registration for the SBN Women’s Leadership Forum, taking place March 11-13, 2025, in Orlando, Florida, is open at sema.org/sbn-wlf.