Denise Blashko, the new executive director for the South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce, is busy promoting the Festival of the Grape.
The Chamber of Commerce’s new executive director didn’t waste any time sliding into her new position last Friday.
Denise Blashko found herself multi-tasking with the best of them – answering the phone, selling tickets to Festival of the Grape, and serving the front counter.
“It’s been a steep learning curve,” she said during a quick break.
But she asked for it.
“I knew it was the perfect role for me to be able to utilize my skills and knowledge to help businesses and organizations in the area achieve their goals.”
Blashko said there are a lot of exciting changes in the region and she wants to be part of this economic development.
Her background includes contract work for Central Alberta Economic Partnership and the Central Alberta Rural Manufacturers Association.
She most recently worked for Community Futures Okanagan Similkameen by providing resources to businesses in the region.
Right now her main focus for the South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce is promoting Festival of the Grape.
“I will be working with our board, vendors and volunteers to ensure it is another successful event.”
Her other short-term goals are to meet current members to find out what their challenges are and how the Chamber can support them in their success.
Blashko said she has a few new ideas that she would like to explore.
In her previous roles, she has worked with many new entrepreneurs and her advice to them is always the same.
“Do your market research and then do more market research so that you confidently know whether you have a viable business idea.”
Then take your time to create your business plan and strategies, and have someone with business knowledge review it, she added.
Another vital piece of advice is to spend time with other entrepreneurs and small businesses so you can learn from their mistakes and successes.
Blashko said this can be accomplished by connecting with industry groups, small business organizations and, of course, your local chamber of commerce.
What if you’re a struggling business?
Seek help as soon as possible, she said.
“Often business owners try to go it alone and wait until it is too late.”
Blashko said the sooner you can talk with people who know small business, the better chance you have at saving your business and getting back on track.
