The best mentoring relationships happen organically, where you click and connect with someone else. There has to be some chemistry. You need to like and respect each other. You need to enjoy spending time together. When you are "matched" by someone else that element is not always there.

It's not all about you. Yes, you can promote your own programs, services and products, but if that is all you do, you won't attract the following you want. Just as in face-to-face networking, givers gain. Try to make it 80 per cent about your industry and 20 per cent about your business.

Recently I was asked for advice from a couple of women -- a small business owner and a would-be entrepreneur and in each instance, the answer was the same -- they needed to do the math. In fact, it really was all about the bottom line.

I am sure many of us can think of examples of those who are the "takers" in life. They run their business in a transactional way. I actually feel sorry for people who have a scarcity or competitive attitude because they miss out on so much. As Dr. Ivan Misner advocates, "givers gain."

People often comment that they don't know how I manage it all. But you know what, I am not so sure that I do. Yes, I juggle a lot. Yes, I am high energy. But there are weeks, like this one, when I want to stop being the hamster on the treadmill. Maybe it's time to get off.

When I started blogging over seven years ago, I was doing it purely because I liked to write. Obviously my attitude changed. One of the first inklings I had that I was on the wrong path with this blog business was when I hired a social media intern. She was reviewing all that we did, and was quick to point out that my blog looked "shitty." Her words, not mine.

Recently I signed up for and have listened to several business webinars. I don't personally give webinars, but as someone who has started taking them, I do have a few observations to share.

There is no one way to grow and build a business successfully. We all bring our unique strengths and styles to the process. But I guess at some time we do have to grow up and learn to do stuff we don't like.

Fear. For a four-lettered word, it sure carries a lot of weight and for the would-be entrepreneurs in my newbie group, no matter what their business aspirations were, it was an emotion they were all feeling. So how do you overcome that fear of failure. Here are some pointers.

It is hard to believe that Company of Women is celebrating its 10th birthday. Where did the time go? As I reflect on the past, I share some lessons I have learned -- some the hard way. I guess I bought into the myth that women can do it all and I sure would try. Looking back I realize this was a big mistake

Women start businesses for a variety of reasons -- to address a need, to pursue a passion, or just to get away from life in the fast lane. Many seek more control over their lives, wanting the flexibility to work around the needs of their families, and their needs for an interesting life that stretches them and gives a sense of self. For myself it was a couple of life-changing experiences that had me take that leap of faith.

Our first trade show was a bit of a bust -- bottom line, we spent a lot of money and staff time on something that really did not generate much business, nor much awareness of our business. I've since participated in several trade shows, and here's some practical tips and questions to ask yourself before you embark on what can be an expensive -- and sometimes worthwhile -- venture.

While I may brief the speakers on the audience, their backgrounds and occupations, I can't predict the personality style of all those involved, which in turn impacts how they learn best and that's why some people will love a presentation, and others hate it. So here are some tips on how to read your audience!