Calling All Small Business Owners

Let's hear it for all the little people (and by that I mean the people who create roughly 80% of all new jobs in this state): that not-so-rare breed known as small business owners. The Boise Metro Chamber is sponsoring the 2008 Small Biz Conference, featuring keynote speaker Rhonda Abrams. If her name doesn't ring any bells, she's like the Suze Orman of entrepreneurship (though less grating). She's a small biz guru, a prolific author, and nationally syndicated columnist. And she's a very successful business owner (and brand) in her own right. Buying one of her books was one of my first steps on the path to entrepreneurialism.

Abrams will provide the keynote address following breakfast. Then, as an added bonus, she'll stick around for a few hours to lead the workshop "Owning your Niche: How to Compete with the Big Guys and Win!"

There are several other interesting workshops to attend throughout the morning, including "Marketing and Advertising on a Budget" and "Develop, Delegate, and Disappear." At noon, we'll celebrate some of the region's small biz success stories at the annual Small Business Awards Luncheon. Afternoon highlights include a panel discussion, networking opportunities, the chance to polish and perfect your elevator pitch, and more networking at the B2B Trade Show and Business After Hours.

I know from personal experience that owning and running a business can be an isolating experience. These sorts of events always help us to recharge, refocus, connect and share with other small biz folks, and infuse our businesses with new ideas and strategies. The agenda offers a fitting balance of inspiration and practical advice. Just the networking along ought to be worth the price of admission.

Treat yourself to an entire day dedicated to making you a better business owner. First 100 registrants will get a free copy of Abram's book, "The Owner's Manual for Small Business." Don't delay: sign up at the Chamber's web site.

Disclosure: I'm on the Chamber's Small Business Success Center Advisory Council.