Cookie Compass: Always return for the “Sweet Moments”

You really never know where you will meet the most interesting people and the impact that one single meeting could have on the trajectory of your life. I was at the beam-topping ceremony for the new National Western Stock building. They had some cookies I liked in the refreshment area. (You know the snowball cookies with pecans. The ones covered in powdered sugar??) Of course, I had to have some! After the beam topping was completed, I was getting ready to leave, and I noticed that there were still some cookies left. I wandered over to have just one more. As I walked up, there was a group of women standing there. Before I was able to get any cookies, we made some small talk, I asked them how they were involved with the National Western Stock building project. Turns out, they were with an organization that worked with General Contractors to find MBE, WBE and DBE (Minority owned Enterprise, Women Business Enterprise and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise) certified businesses to fill the participation requirements of the contract. I told them WBENC (Women Business Enterprise Network Council) was the one who had notified me of the project. As a WBE business ourselves, the WBE Council had reached out and wanted to know if the National Western Stock Building was something I would be interested in. (um.... yes!) The signs for the project were completely within my wheelhouse and we would be honored to have the opportunity to work on a project that would be so prevalent in Denver. The entire process started last February 2023 and in November 2023 we were awarded the contract for the Signs. The conversation continued about the opportunities available for WBE and MBE companies in Colorado. And ended with one of the ladies saying... “we like to work with people who become our Friends”. This was a great reminder of the unexpected opportunities that can arise from simple moments and interactions. The idea of doing business with people who become friends is very powerful, as it often leads to more meaningful and collaborative partnerships. Collaborating with those you trust not only transforms the business landscape but also fosters a unique synergy that goes beyond the traditional client-vendor relationship. The positives of doing business with friends can be limitless—where shared values, mutual understanding, and a genuine connection create a foundation for success. They become fulfilling collaborations that elevate both the business and the bonds of friendship. The importance of networking, being open to conversations, and seizing opportunities when they present themselves cannot be stressed enough. Sometimes, it’s those casual encounters over cookies or small talk that can lead to significant business ventures. So, here’s to more “sweet” moments and the potential friendships and business opportunities they may bring. Cheers to your success!