The Myths, Truths, and Powers of Peer Groups

In his 1937 book about self and business development entitled Think and Grow Rich, Napoleon Hill offers an early description of what business leaders would currently call a peer group. In the book, Hill writes of “two or more people actively engaged in the pursuit of a definite purpose with positive mental attitudes,” and says that this group “constitutes an unbeatable force.”

Since 1937, much has been written about peer groups and how they can help business owners achieve success by providing insight. These groups put business leaders in the room with like-minded individuals, as well as individuals from different industries and those who take drastically different approaches. Some writings about peer groups are useful, but others do miss the point, or spread myths about peer groups that may not be true. By demystifying which pieces of conventional wisdom surrounding peer groups are true and which are myths, we can ensure that business leaders are using this potentially “unbeatable force” to the best of its ability.

Myth: Only those business leaders who are doing something wrong need the advice of a peer group.

The Truth Behind It: Even when things are going well, every business leader stands to benefit from speaking to and learning from other business owners. It’s a good way to keep a pulse on the market and overall economy, as well as to analyze general market wide trends and get advice to help you avoid any stumbling blocks.

Of course, some leaders do have a certain level of clout and experience, and can either employ experts to track market trends, or may already be doing so themselves. But peer groups can have use for those individuals as well. Truth is, running a business is stressful, and leaders often take on more responsibilities than one person should reasonably handle. Peer groups offer leaders a platform to express their thoughts and feelings outside of their organization, providing a neutral space to voice the primary concerns of your business and life balance. It also allows them to get objective feedback and support from people from all walks of life, providing an objective lens into their strengths and weaknesses (everyone has them).

Myth: People who join peer groups do it for opportunistic reasons.

The Truth Behind It: Yes, people do join peer groups with the hope of improving their businesses, but that doesn’t mean they are going to use them as platforms to try and sell their good and services. In fact, many participants in peer groups have stated that the groups are good opportunities to get away from the constant selling they are tasked with in their day-to-day jobs.

The other thing that participants in peer groups have to say on the subject is that the most effective groups are the ones in which members get vulnerable. If members of the groups use them simply as opportunities to sell, network, or build connections, they tend to only present the positives about their businesses. The result is that they fail to get perspective on the issues they came to the peer group to address AND end up leaving with only surface-level connections.

So yes, opportunistic peer groups can be a problem, but a fixable one. If you yourself come to a peer group ready and willing to dive in, be vulnerable, and do the work of actually presenting the challenges you face as a business leader, others will likely follow suit. Then the real work can begin.

Myth: It’s not worth my time to engage in a peer group.

The Truth Behind It: There is some truth behind this myth. Peer groups do take time and intentionality to be effective, and busy business leaders may have to carve time out of already packed schedules to participate. However, it is the opinion of MANY that have participated in peer groups that, when it comes to this tool, “a stitch in time saves nine.” Peer groups can offer solutions and strategies for everything from time management to delegation to life/work balance, and actually might help you save time in the long run. That being said, you may not want to jump into one at your busiest time of year. That is the time to take notes on what is going well for your business when it’s at capacity and what can be improved upon. That way, you can bring those notes into a later peer group to help you solicit solutions and offer advice of your own.

Takeaways: Like anything in business or life, you will get out of a peer group what you put into it. If you show up with a willingness to be vulnerable and spend a little time away from your day-to-day, they can be incredibly effective tools. Participants have cited everything from less stress to innovative practices as things they have gotten out of the process, which has been used over the years by successful business leaders from Andrew Carnegie to many other accomplished professionals.

How EFBC Can Help: If you are looking to join a peer group, look no further than EFBC forums! If you’re not already familiar, our forums allow business leaders to connect once a month in small settings and receive all the benefits associated with any other peer group. And if time is still a concern for you, we offer a flexible option that might work better with your busy schedule. Find out more here: http://myefbc.com/forums/

Building Your Own Network When You’re Part of a Family Business

Is It All Really in the Family?

Family businesses: despite what network and cable television would have us believe, they are not all drama, backstabbing, and fighting for succession. In fact, 87% of all American businesses are family owned or controlled. From local Mom and Pop-style restaurants to multi-billion-dollar companies like Fidelity Investments, there are 32.4 million family-owned businesses in America alone. But when second, third, and fourth generations inherit companies from their parents and grandparents, they often also inherit rolodexes and address books full of their parents’ and grandparents’ business contacts. These contacts are valuable of course, but savvy new owners know that if you are going to grow any business, your network must grow with it. This is why a common question that many inheritors of family businesses find themselves asking is “How do I build my own network within the frame of what previous generations have already established?”

It’s a valid question, and not one with an easy answer. Partially, it does depend on whether a business owner wants to continue to operate their new business in a similar manner to what was done previously, whether they want to move the business in a completely new direction, or whether their plans lie somewhere in between those extremes. Either way, if you find yourself the brand-new owner of your family’s business, here are some things to consider when building your network:

1. Utilize Established Relationships

Begin by exploring the existing network your family has built over the years. This includes relationships with clients, suppliers, and other business contacts. By understanding the history and dynamics of these connections, you can identify areas for growth and potential opportunities for collaboration.

2. Seek Peer Support and Education

Reach out to other business leaders who share your commitment to family values and entrepreneurial success. Join peer groups and forums like the EFBC, where you can learn from others’ experiences and share your own insights. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals offers fresh perspectives and strengthens your support system.

3. Leverage Technology and Digital Networking

In today’s digital age, technology has become an invaluable tool for building and expanding networks. Here’re some examples:

• Take advantage of social media platforms: LinkedIn is a great platform to connect with professionals in your industry, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions.
• Email Newsletters: Subscribe to industry-specific newsletters to stay informed and connect with contributors
• Online Communities: Join organizations or associations that offer online community forums where members can discuss challenges and share resources.
• Virtual networking events: Attend webinars and online conferences to meet and engage with peers and industry experts.

4. Seek Mentorship

Mentorship is a powerful resource for personal and professional growth. Look for experienced mentors who can offer guidance, advice, and support as you navigate the complexities of family business ownership. Their insights and perspectives can provide valuable perspective and help you build your network effectively.

5. Give Back to the Community

Of course, giving back to the community is always something that sounds like a great thing to do, but for new business owners, especially those inheriting family businesses, the motives for community outreach can go above and beyond altruism. After all, the community in which you are doing business has supported your family for years, and the members of that community will want to know that you continue to be as invested in them as they are in you. In fact, studies show that 85% of consumers have a more positive image of a company that gives back, and 90% of consumers want to know how a company is engaging with their community. Beyond that, giving back can help build or strengthen partnerships, which only serves to build your family’s network, and by extension, your own.

In conclusion, building your own network within a family business is a dynamic process that requires a strategic approach. By utilizing technology, cultivating relationships, seeking peer support as well as mentorship, and giving back to the community, you can create a strong network that supports your personal and professional growth. Embrace the journey, and make the most of the EFBC community for support and guidance along the way.

Review of Sam Silverstein’s Book “The Accountability Advantage”

by B.J. Slater, Education Director

I looked at the dozen members of my team staring back at me and my mouth dried up. The knot in my stomach reflected that I wasn’t sure what to say at this point, and I suspect the look on my face may have said the same. This was the first staff meeting since we had fired a long-time toxic manager, the first time I had really started to take responsibility for the culture within our family’s fertilizer company, and now everyone was looking to me for leadership. That day I took the first step on a long journey of rebuilding and shaping our culture. The Accountability Advantage by Sam Silverstein makes an excellent guidebook for just such a journey. Sam, a leadership accountability expert, will be the featured guest at EFBCs Spring Signature Event on May 16. EFBC members each received a copy of one of Sam’s ten books. In this article I provide my review of one of them, The Accountability Advantage.

During our company’s culture journey we had wins and setbacks and a lot of trial and error. Slowly but surely positive trends emerged. At the time I didn’t understand exactly which of our efforts were effective and which weren’t. The Accountability Advantage offers an explanation of what worked, why it worked, and how to achieve better results in the future. At the time of that staff meeting those years ago, our family’s business had what Sam refers to as a “culture by default,” as opposed to one by design. The early chapters of The Accountability Advantage, spell out, with blunt honesty, the causes and costs of culture by default. Lack of accountability, specifically in leadership, is the root cause of myriad cultural ills within organizations. This lack of accountability stems from leaders’ fears of doing what they know they should do. I appreciate that throughout the book the author calls for a high degree of honest self-reflection.

I feel this fear in leaders which Sam describes as “misguided” and being, “based on false assumptions,” may be particularly relevant in family business environments. Personally I recall situations I felt compelled to behave according to family expectations or hesitated over concerns of what my father’s opinion might be. There are many situations in which holding ourselves accountable as leaders can be difficult or complicated.

When leaders opine on accountability, their remarks often focus on “holding others accountable.” To achieve Culture by Design, Sam argues, this is the wrong approach. Trying to hold others accountable puts them on the defensive and often backfires. Instead, he presents a compelling case for leaders inspiring accountability in others by first demonstrating it impeccably in themselves. While this may at first sound basic, Sam details ten non-negotiable relational commitments he argues form the foundation of being an accountable leader. These ten commitments make prominent appearances in his other books, and are foundational to his approach. It is by making and reliably keeping these commitments to your team that achieving Culture by Design becomes achievable.

The benefits of achieving such change can be massive. Sam outlines numerous organizational “Pains in the Butt” that can be transformed into competitive advantages by reshaping a culture through accountability. The balance of the book is dedicated to laying out a roadmap for achieving a Culture by Design and the advantages it provides. Sam presents this cultural transformation plan in five steps: defining, modeling, teaching, protecting, and celebrating the culture. This forms a logical and sequential progression that was easy to absorb and understand.

Sam begins the segment on defining the culture with a discussion of values, how to define various types of values, and their roles in organizational culture. This is followed by a practical exercise on how to clearly identify your own personal values. The exercise generates great insights and is well worth the time invested. This section of the book in particular contains exercises and conversations that aren’t meant for the reader alone. The above values exercise is meant to be repeated by everyone on the leadership team followed by discussions to share the results.

Once you and your leadership team are clear on their personal values, Sam advises getting your employees all in the same room and conducting a similar exercise with the group of them to identify your company’s values. How many of your employees, you ask? If you have fewer than 50, Sam argues you should just get every one of them in the same room. Like me, you may have second thoughts on this. How do I know this exercise will work?

Well, to me, this is where The Accountability Advantage became truly valuable. What is described are the very exercises Sam and his team at The Accountability Institute have actually run with companies they worked with. The text presents antidotes to common doubts and concerns as well as practical suggestions for skeptical employees. It also provides examples of cultural values developed by past clients that can serve as a guide.

The book walks through the remaining steps in the process presenting clear direction on how leaders should model the cultural values they and their team created in the prior exercises. Considerable guidance is provided on how to build and maintain accountability as a leader, how to build the courage needed to keep relational commitments, and how to avoid pitfalls and common traps leaders often run into during the early phases of cultural transformation.

In later chapters the focus shifts outward from the leadership team modeling cultural values to leaders communicating and teaching those values to others in the organization. An entire chapter is dedicated to the power of communicating values through story. The text again offers practical easy-to-follow tasks, suggestions for avoiding common issues, and plentiful examples of what other companies have done successfully before.

Having discussed designing and building the culture, Sam turns, necessarily, to protecting the culture. The author discusses dealing with very real situations that might derail your high performance culture whether they be a single person, or a merger with another company and different culture. Hiring and separating with employees is addressed also with plentiful real-world examples.

In the final and shortest step, Celebrating the Culture, Sam shares the vital keys to sustaining culture change by recognizing and celebrating excellence. The author argues this is as much a mindset about people as it is a set of practices. I wish there was more on this section, as I believe there is a lot of truth to the idea that this is a key way in which a high-performance culture is nurtured long-term.

In reading this book, and reflecting on our own journey at Plant Marvel, I gained significant clarity over why our most successful initiatives at developing a high performance culture were so effective. I also, humbly, realize how far we have yet to go – how far I have to go. Perhaps the greatest compliment I can give this book is that I left it with renewed clarity and conviction that I can accomplish the needed tasks. I believe this is a valuable guide full of hard-won wisdom from the trenches of organizations. I look forward to putting it to use. The author closes the book with a call-to-action reminding us that all we have, and all we need to make a difference, is this present moment.

The Accountability Advantage offers a tested road map for achieving positive organizational change by implementing accountability. Far from a passive read, the book is full of practical exercises designed to implement the ideas of the book in an actual organization. This is augmented by the author’s advice and wisdom gained from years of performing this same work with organizations. It presents a very powerful tool for organizational leaders of all types.

I am very excited to have Sam Silverstein keynote EFBC’s Spring Signature Event, Unlocking Potential: The Highest Form of Leadership! I hope that you will join us at 4:30pm on May 16th at Sky on Nine in Rosemont as Sam shares more of his wisdom in a special presentation just for the EFBC community. It will be a night to remember!

President’s Letter: Reflecting On Q1 and Future Planning

Dear EFBC Members,

With spring in full bloom and summer just around the corner, there’s a sense of renewal and opportunity in the air. The world around us is blossoming, and with it, new possibilities for our businesses and our community. It’s the perfect time to reflect on the progress we’ve made and set our sights on what’s to come.

May marks a prudent time to review Q1 analytics and make necessary adjustments to ensure a strong forecast for 2024. This is an opportunity to fine-tune sales, material margins, and critical processes. Involving key personnel now, before summer vacations begin, can help solidify your plans for the year. Don’t hesitate to lean on your forum partners or fellow EFBC members for advice and support.

Now, I’d like to share some exciting updates and upcoming events within the EFBC community:

1. Website Launch: We recently launched our redesigned website, featuring a fresh new look and enhanced user experience. This update strengthens our online presence and provides an improved user experience for our members.
2. EFBC CommunityHub: Our new online platform, EFBC CommunityHub, launches tomorrow, May 1st! This platform will serve as a central hub for members to connect, share knowledge, and collaborate. Keep an eye out for the official launch announcement tomorrow morning!

Upcoming events that you don’t want to miss:

• Hybrid Sales & Marketing Roundtable – May 9^th.   – Marcus Newman and Patty Rioux will lead a discussion on AI tools and the subject of motivation. This event promises valuable insights for members and their key employees.

• Signature Event – Unlocking Potential: The Highest Form of Leadership – May 16^th. – Prepare to be inspired by renowned speaker, Sam Silverstein, as he shares his powerful message of “No More Excuses.” This event is not to be missed!

• Fireside Chat – Member Story: June 11^th-Join us at Medinah Country Club for a conversation with EFBC member Jim Armbruster, facilitated by George Karavattuveetil. This chat offers a unique opportunity to learn from Jim’s experiences and journey.

As we embrace the beauty of spring and the promise of summer, let’s continue to nurture our community and support each other in our journeys. I look forward to seeing you at these events and witnessing our collective growth!

Warm Regards,

Dave Horvath
EFBC President 2023-2024

EFBC CommunityHub: Your New Digital Space for Connection and Collaboration

We’re excited to announce that our online platform, EFBC CommunityHub, will officially launch on Wednesday, May 1st! While you’ve already seen the initial announcement in your inbox, we wanted to share the journey that brought this platform to life and give you a sneak peek at what’s in store.

How It All Started

The inspiration behind EFBC CommunityHub began in early September 2023, when our current Vice President, Darrin Shillair, envisioned a space where EFBC members could connect, engage, and collaborate more effectively. With his vision in mind, the EFBC team jumped on board and worked diligently to bring this platform to life.

EFBC team collaborating with Vice President Darrin on the CommunityHub platform

Our team took care of all the technical and design aspects of the platform, ensuring that it caters to the needs and preferences of our community. With the collective effort of everyone involved, the EFBC CommunityHub came to life. This new platform embodies our commitment to fostering a sense of community and belonging among our members.

The Inspiration Behind the Name

The inspiration behind the name “CommunityHub” lies in our commitment to building a strong and supportive network for our members. The name embodies the idea of a central gathering place — a hub — where entrepreneurs and family business owners can come together to share ideas, gain insights, and find support. The platform serves as a virtual extension of our physical community, providing members with a space to engage. CommunityHub represents the essence of EFBC’s mission: 

What You Can Expect from EFBC CommunityHub

As a member of the EFBC CommunityHub, you can enjoy a range of features and benefits, including:

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow EFBC members through 1:1 and group chat options, and access the member directory to find and engage with like-minded individuals.
• Events at Your Ease: Conveniently browse through upcoming EFBC events, register and manage them directly from the platform making it a seamless experience.
• Discussion Boards and Groups: Share ideas, ask questions, and collaborate with peers in various discussion boards and interest-based groups.
• Resources: Access to the extensive EFBC resources, from past event materials to insightful publications and exclusive content, ensuring you never miss out on any learning opportunity.
• Live News Feed: Stay updated with latest news within our community, right at your fingertips.
• Mobile Accessibility: Stay connected on the go with our mobile app. With just a click, you can quickly access EFBC’s services or communicate with members at any time and anywhere. User-friendly for first-time users!

Countdown to Launch

The official launch of EFBC CommunityHub is just around the corner — May 1st! Stay tuned for the launch announcement in your inbox.

We’re excited for you to explore this new digital space and discover all the opportunities it offers for connection, collaboration, and growth. We look forward to seeing you on CommunityHub!

Meet Carolyn Quinn, President at Pike Systems Inc.

Get to know Carolyn, a new member of EFBC!

Pike Systems Inc.
Founded: 1985
Location: Montgomery, IL

1. Tell us about your background & career leading up to where you are now?

I attended Babson College, a specialized institution focusing solely on business education, where approximately 25% of students come from family businesses, creating a unique environment. During my time there, my team and I initiated a business venture that, although ultimately dissolved, provided valuable insights and experiences. We donated all profits to a charity of our choice, reflecting our commitment to social responsibility.

Throughout my college years, I participated in numerous consulting projects for various companies, fostering a strong business-oriented mindset. Following graduation, I joined Goldman Sachs, where I worked on the equity derivatives trading floor in New York City.

However, my desire to return home eventually led me to reconsider my career path. Instead of transferring within Goldman Sachs, I approached my father about returning to work at Pike Systems – our family business. After careful consideration, I made the choice to return.

Initially, my role primarily involved marketing and sales support, but over time, I transitioned into a more sales-focused position, eventually managing my own sales territory. For the majority of my tenure leading up to purchasing the business, I focused on outside sales. Now, as the owner of the Pike Systems for six years, I remain deeply committed to its continued growth and success.

2. What do you like the most about what you’re doing right now?

I really enjoy the variety of challenges that come with my current role. As a business owner, there’s always something new to tackle, which keeps things interesting. Whether it’s solving problems or adapting to changes in the economy, there’s never a dull moment.

3. How did you first hear about EBC?

I first heard about EFBC through an email event invitation, which was quite a while ago, maybe over five years back, if not longer. My dad had just retired, and we attended the EFBC event together that was held at Loyola. It was a movie viewing event showcasing a business owner’s journey in South America. It turned out to be a memorable family bonding experience. At that time, I wasn’t ready to join.

It wasn’t until I crossed paths with another EFBC member, Bob Stahurski. Bob invited me as his guest to the Summer Social & Leadership Award event last August, and it was an amazing experience. At the event, I had the pleasure of meeting the two siblings who are the 4th generation of Italian Village owners. A group of us ended up going to dinner at Italian Village that evening.  The event was filled with such vibrant and engaging people, and it truly left a lasting impression on me.

4. What motivated you to join EFBC?

I joined EFBC (Entrepreneurs and Founders Business Club) for its robust in-person events and networking opportunities. The diverse membership, spanning various industries and sizes, offers unique perspectives and collaborations. Being Chicago-based, EFBC connects me to the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. Despite its premium offerings, EFBC remains affordable, making it an invaluable resource for my professional growth.

5. What do you hope to gain from your membership?

I’m primarily looking to expand my professional network and connect with like-minded individuals in the business community. Building relationships and fostering connections with other members is my top priority at the moment.

A great example of the value I seek from my membership was the recent NIL Fireside Chat event. It wasn’t a topic I was particularly familiar with, but I made a commitment to myself to be more involved and attend more networking events. Leaving the event, I found myself engaged in conversations about a topic that was entirely new to me. It was an eye-opening experience to learn and connect with fellow members, even on topics outside of my usual interests, which I hope to continue experiencing through my membership with EFBC

6. Is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself or your business?

Pike Systems, Inc. specializes in janitorial and sanitation supplies, providing cutting-edge solutions for facility management. Their product range, including cleaning chemicals and equipment, enhances cleanliness and operational efficiency. Committed to sustainability, Pike Systems delivers personalized services for a healthier workplace. Visit Pike Systems Inc. for innovative facility solutions.

Join us in welcoming Carolyn Quinn to the EFBC community! Members can log in and connect with Carolyn via the EFBC Member Directory.

Meet Pete Vallino, Vice President at I.V. House, Inc.

Get to know Pete, a new member of EFBC!

I.V. House, Inc.
Founded: 1991
Location: St. Louis, MO

1.Tell us about your background & career leading up to where you are now?

Looking back on my journey, I wanted to pursue a career in the sports industry. I always had a passion for sports, having grown up playing hockey, baseball, and golf. I was drawn not only to the games themselves but also to the behind-the-scenes business aspects. I even considered a role with the Philadelphia 76ers at one point, but ultimately decided it wasn’t the right fit for me. Instead, I embarked on a sales role in Chicago for 2 years.

After gaining a couple of years of experience in Sales, I received an exciting proposition from my family’s company. With an opening available, I made the decision to join the team full-time. Fast forward almost 6 years, and I’ve enjoyed a rewarding journey. Starting as a sales rep for our medical device company, I’ve had the chance to engage directly with healthcare professionals, training them on product usage. Over time, I’ve taken on more leadership responsibilities and have been involved in various aspects of business operations.

2. What do you like the most about what you do right now?

What I find most fulfilling about my current role is the direct impact we have on patients, particularly pediatrics. Our products play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and comfort of kids undergoing medical treatment, especially when it involves IV procedures. It’s heartening to know that our efforts contribute to improving their hospital experience and reducing patient harm. Witnessing the positive outcomes we achieve in healthcare facilities is incredibly rewarding.

Additionally, I genuinely enjoy working with our tight-knit team. Despite being a small group of people, our collective dedication and synergy makes a noticeable difference in our workplace dynamics. It’s inspiring to witness the longevity of our team members’ tenure, reflecting both their commitment to the company and the positive working environment we’ve cultivated.

3. How did you hear about EFBC?

I was introduced to EFBC through my father-in-law, who was a longstanding member and owner of James and Sons Fine Jewelry. With his extensive experience as a member, he recognized the value EFBC could offer me as I navigate my career path, particularly as I plan to assume ownership of the company. Knowing the invaluable networking opportunities and resources EFBC provides, he encouraged me to explore membership as a beneficial resource. His recommendation resonated with me, prompting my interest in connecting with like-minded individuals facing similar professional transitions.

4. What motivated you to join EFBC?

Networking has always been a significant driver for me. Back in college at The University of Dayton, instead of traditional assignments, one of my professors emphasized the importance of networking. We were tasked with reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn, initiating conversations, and setting up meetings, with grades tied to the number of successful connections made. This experience proved invaluable as it allowed me to gain insights directly from industry professionals.

Now, as I navigate my professional journey, I recognize the immense value of networking once again. Joining EFBC presents an opportunity to engage with individuals facing similar professional challenges and opportunities. While I may be on the younger side at 30, I appreciate the diverse experiences and perspectives that EFBC members bring to the table. Engaging with individuals who have walked similar paths and overcome comparable challenges is invaluable as I navigate the complexities of business ownership and leadership.

5. What do you hope to gain or achieve from your membership?

Primarily, I’m seeking shared experiences and insights from fellow members who understand the unique challenges and opportunities in running a small business. As part of a small company, I often lack a broad network of peers to turn to for guidance and support. Joining EFBC provides me with access to a diverse community of professionals who have navigated similar paths and can offer invaluable insights and advice based on their firsthand experiences. I aim to tap into this wealth of knowledge to enhance my own leadership skills, overcome obstacles, and drive growth within my company.

6. Outside of professional interests, do you have any hobbies or passions you’d like to share?

When I’m not focused on work, you’ll often find me on the ice, playing hockey. It’s a passion of mine that I’ve carried since childhood. Additionally, my wife and I share a love for travel. We are fortunate that our families get along so well, allowing us to enjoy vacations together. And speaking of family, we’re eagerly anticipating the arrival of our first child in a couple of months, which is an incredibly exciting milestone for us and our future.

Join us in welcoming Pete Vallino to the EFBC community!

President’s Letter: Embracing the Spirit of April with EFBC

Dear EFBC Members,

Spring has sprung in Chicago, bringing with it a sense of renewal and inspiration for all. As we eagerly anticipate the Easter holiday later this week. Several golf courses have already opened!!!! Someone we know is getting a tax refund!!! We revel in the excitement of NCAA March Madness, we are reminded of the vibrant energy that surrounds us during this time of year. Additionally, the implementation of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations has ushered in a new era for women & men student-athletes, providing them with well-deserved financial rewards for their efforts both on and off the field.

Exciting Updates and Upcoming Events We have some exciting updates and events to share with you as we embrace the spirit of spring:

Website Redesign Launching at the end of April: We’re thrilled to announce that our re-designed website will be launching at the end of April! Get ready for a fresh new look and enhanced user experience as we strive to provide you with valuable resources and seamless navigation.

Upcoming Events:

Leadership Application Course Series (LAC) – Weekly Starting Wednesday – April 17th: The Leadership Application Course, instructed by George Karavattuveetil of Psyched LLC, is a 6-week program designed to improve team communication, performance, and culture. Join us for weekly sessions beginning on Wednesday, April 17th, from 8:00 AM – 10:30 AM.

HR Roundtable – April 11th: Join us for our HR Roundtable where we’ll delve into current hot topics such as Emotional Intelligence and its impact on work, as well as Executive level conflict and its implications. This interactive session promises to provide valuable insights for HR professionals and business leaders alike.

From the Carpet to Concrete: Navigating Client Interactions with Expertise – April 25th: Join us for an insightful roundtable discussion facilitated by industry experts from our valued member, Carbit Paint Company. In this session, we’ll delve into the world of technical guidance, focusing on strategies for navigating diverse customer interactions and expectations.

Signature Event – Unlocking Potential: The Highest Form Of Leadership – May 16th: Save the date for our EFBC Spring Flagship Event on Thursday, May 16, 2024. Prepare to be inspired by renowned speaker, Sam Silverstein, as he shares his powerful message of “No More Excuses.” This event is not to be missed!

As we enter the month of April, let’s embrace the spirit of growth, renewal, and possibility. Together, we’ll continue to support each other’s aspirations and celebrate our collective achievements.

Thank you for your continued dedication and participation in our EFBC community. Your contributions make our community vibrant and dynamic.

Warm regards,

Dave Horvath
EFBC President 2023-2024