Eight Trendsetting Women In Business To Watch In 2017

Female entrepreneurs committed to success are always looking for inspiration from established women in business.  This article will introduce you to eight trendsetting women in business to watch from now into the future...

Are you looking for inspiration from successful women in business?  You'll find that here!

And meet a small group of terrific successful business women, names all listed below.

I'm hoping you won't consider this one of those ordinary women in business articles.  More, an introduction of real people you may actually want to connect with.  Something more personal!

Perhaps a 'women in business magazine' - Abbreviated, with just important essentials.  Plus, words that they've shared with me as business professionals I actually know...

Background On Eight Trendsetting Women In Business

You were previously introduced to some of these awesome women as female entrepreneurs.  All do indeed have an entrepreneurial spirit!

I asked them all the same six questions.  Entrepreneurs and small business owners - Female or male - All should be inspired by their answers.

Below, in alphabetical order, lets reveal more about these eight trendsetting women in business to watch in 2017...

Nancy Babcock - Social Media Strategist & Small Business Owner

1) Your business name and general geographic location

Creative Arts Consulting LLC, State College, Pennsylvania

2) What does your business do?

Social Media Marketing, Management and Training for small business owners and non-profits.

3) Describe your ideal client 

My ideal client is a woman, 40+ years, owns a business and “gets” social media but has no time to manage it herself, has a sense of humor, is open to new ideas, enjoys collaboration and brainstorming ideas.

4) Why is your business on social media?

Share career business experience and social media knowledge with other small business owners. Promote the many opportunities social media offers to small business owners to engage and connect with their customers.

5) What are some surprises or things you did not expect that resulted from your business social media efforts?

Time to accomplish day-to-day tasks and goals for myself and clients. Technology changes are occurring so quickly a large amount of time is needed to keep current.

6) Tell us about some notable projects you've worked on (project, event, or similar).

I worked through multiple phases of my 2016 business goals; broadened local networking opportunities with a “giving back” component (Volunteering) services for one non-profit organization.

TIP: Nancy is on my Women In Business To Watch list because I think you will find her a great social citizen - online AND offline.  She is conscientious about everything she does, and she is always moving forward.

QUOTE: "Accept yourself, love yourself, and keep moving forward. To fly, give up what weighs you down."

Sheryl Brown - Owner, Artist, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist

1) Your business name and general geographic location

Sheryl Brown Art
Issaquah, WA just east of Seattle

2) What does your business do?

Wearable Art ~ Silk Scarves

I practice art in more ways than one.  With my visual art, I start with a painting and then create fine art reproductions on paper, canvas and even silk..!

"Take an Artist, add paint, then print on silk..!"

And in my down time, I take photos :)

3) Describe your ideal client

My ideal client loves color and wants to bring it into their life in a variety of ways, willing to experiment.

4) Why is your business on social media?

Social Media makes a great context for conversations that can be very visual.

5) What are some surprises or things you did not expect that resulted from your business social media efforts?

Not sure I'm surprised, but I definitely love the new friends that can easily be made in a remote way.  Trust can be built without ever meeting in person.

6) Tell us about some notable projects you've worked on (project, event, or similar).

Projects include new scarf designs.. Always..!

TIP: Sheryl is on my Women In Business To Watch list because she is one of the most creative people I know with an enormous amount of energy.  She has built a community of artists and art enthusiasts - Her efforts there amaze me....I can't keep up!  Additionally, Sheryl has a diverse background to draw from, which brings unmatchable vibrance to all she does.

QUOTE: "Inspire..heal..love..connect."

Dr. Elise Cohen Ho - Natural Heath Coach, Published Author & Motivational Speaker 

1) Your business name and general geographic location

Ask Dr. Ho
Orange County, California

2) What does your business do?

Wellness/Relationship Coaching
Writing Services - Product/event/Restaurant Reviews, Professional Ghostwriting, etc
Public Speaking

3) Describe your ideal client

My ideal coaching client is female, 35-55, health is a priority. Exercise is not always desired but this client knows it is needed. She has children but may not have a significant other. Family is important to her and she desires to enjoy an adventure filled life filled with family outings and vacations with and without the kids.

She is conscious of the type of cosmetics that she wears and prefers to use as many natural and eco friendly products as possible. She loves to enjoy healthy foods but is concerned about time to prepare, cost and flavor. She also enjoys going out and is anxious to figure out how to live this fun life while still staying aligned with her health goals.

Clients in need of my writing services or who wish to hire me for public speaking are small business or large corporations. The commonality is that they want to educate people through blogs, articles, books and seminars, or large events, but they may not have the time or knowledge with which to do so.

They are interested in teaching people on any number of topics including:

Psychology of Food and Nutrition
Raising A Healthy and Happy Family
Sensuality and Sexuality
Marriage: The Secret to Success
Building A Natural Health Business
An Authentic Public Image: Creating, Branding and Marketing
The Client Connection: Purpose, Stages and Motivational Interviewing
Health Coaching

4) Why is your business on social media?

To authentically connect to clients and potential clients, provide useful information and to create an ability to influence peoples decisions.

5) What are some surprises or things you did not expect that resulted from your business social media efforts?

My business has grown and stretched in new and exciting ways which has also pushed me to keep growing and evolving. The people I have met has been incredible as is the recognition that I receive in some arenas.

6) Tell us about some notable projects you've worked on (project, event, or similar).

Building my Iridology courses and also offering an extended DIY detox program.

TIP: Elise is on my Women In Business To Watch list because she prioritizes education of what she does, and is always looking for ways to improve her projects, processes, and offerings to those she serves.  She has had a fruitful collaboration with Mark Hyman, MD.

QUOTE: "You can do whatever you set your mind to. work hard, reach it for help when needed, learn all that you can and be proud."

Adele McIntosh - Travelers Consultant 

1) Your business name and general geographic location

Legendary World, San Diego, CA

2) What does your business do?

Leisure and Group Travel Consultation and Arrangements

3) Describe your ideal client

Group leader looking to take 25-250 passengers on a cruise. Could be as an employee incentive, a learning or continuing education event, family reunion or wedding, or other affinity group.

4) Why is your business on social media?

To help create a personal touch and feel for existing and new clients. Since most of my work is done via phone and email, SM puts a face to a name/voice. Also, it helps keep my name on top of mind consciousness with mu clients so they think of me first for their travel needs and referrals.

5) What are some surprises or things you did not expect that resulted from your business social media efforts?

Can't really think of any

6) Tell us about some notable projects you've worked on (project, event, or similar).

A charity event in May of 2016 - LUNAFEST Film Festival. I promoted Legendary World, and a then future Soroptimist Fundraising Group Cruise as well as other cruise values.

TIP: Adele is on my Women In Business To Watch list because she approaches her work with a level of balance that I admire: Work smarter, not harder, and focus on what takes you efficiently to your goal.  She's always going somewhere fabulous, and that's fun to observe too...  :)

QUOTE: "Q1 is the busiest time in my industry, and even has it's own name: WAVE Season."

Dr. Robyn MacKillop - CEO/Founder & College Instructor 

1) Your business name and general geographic location

Robyn MacKillop Ph.D. and for ease, Doctor Robyn Online. I'm physically in Salem, Oregon and work with clients from all over via online connections.

2) What does your business do?

I love the accessibility and opportunities an online presence gives to business owners. I help you develop your online persona so you stand out, get more clients and make more money. I specialize in webinars, social media, online courses, and video.You have to be online. Be Found, Be Seen, Be Known.

3) Describe your ideal client

Female, between 45-65, owns her own business and is ready to move to the next level using digital marketing and tools but is still concerned about time management, safety, id theft and ability. She knows she needs to build her visibility online, but isn't sure how.

4) Why is your business on social media?

Everything I do besides speaking is done online.

5) What are some surprises or things you did not expect that resulted from your business social media efforts?

Strong interest in MS and public education - people want to know more about my opinions on both, so I need to tie them in to my business messaging.

6) Tell us about some notable projects you've worked on (project, event, or similar).

I developed "Turn Your Content Into Cash: Create Your Online Course." And getting out to speak in front of people, and finishing writing "Be Found, Be Seen, Be Known: Build Your Business & Your Brand."

TIP: Robyn is on my Women In Business To Watch list because she has not hesitated to evolve her business as the world around her changed.  She's not afraid to hop in and overcome hurdles!  Originally more positioned to help educators learn how to teach others online, Robyn observed technology and shifted with trends.  She is a real-world educator, so her approach is one to learn from...literally.

QUOTE: "You need to be visible on social media, and the best way to do it is VIDEO!"

Jennifer Morse - Marketing Agency Partner, Radio Producer & Independent Chocolatier 

1) Your business name and general geographic location

Social Advantage Solutions – Lexington, SC

2) What does your business do?

We offer social media management for physicians and medical practices as well as event planning.

3) Describe your ideal client

Physicians who like to engage with their patients, to help educate and understand their patient population.

4) Why is your business on social media?

We are on social media to be accessible to customers, promote our business, be a resource and on occasion, entertain.

5) What are some surprises or things you did not expect that resulted from your business social media efforts?

Like many I’m sure, struggling with the most efficient system for saving and cultivating content. There are a lot of options out there – just a case of settling in on something and growing from there.

6) Tell us about some notable projects you've worked on (project, event, or similar).

A Women’s Retreat (expo of sorts) focused on life – work – health. A different format that’s more flowing in nature with support from established/successful men in the community.

TIP: Jennifer is on my Women In Business To Watch list because she is diversely talented, and budding in her newest business ventures.  She knows radio and other media, and is positioned to evolve with new industry developments.

QUOTE: "I would hope I could provide nuggets of helpful info, regularly but not overkill, that are digestible."

Samantha Sands - Creator & Hair Goddess

1) Your business name and general geographic location 

Epique Hair - Nerang, Queensland, Australia

2) What does your business do? 

We empower woman through Glam & Confidence.We are your experts to help you, Our "GLAM Stars" (our clients) achieve your ultimate personal GLAM while empowering your confidence to achieve your desires in Hair and Life.

3) Describe your ideal client 

Women who want to look and feel good, and appreciate glamour and confidence nurtured by our "Epique Angels," (our hairdressers).

4) Why is your business on social media? 

To promote an enjoyable professional individual quality unique experience.

5) What are some surprises or things you did not expect that resulted from your business social media efforts?

Its a entertaining, fun and so rewarding. We are dedicated to our clients Happiness. Our positive can do attitude, attendance of regular seminars as well as our weekly training, keeps myself and my team Passionate every day.

6) Tell us about some notable projects you've worked on (project, event, or similar).

November 2004 was when Epique came to life.
  Even after 12 years I still have GLAM in my eyes and a passion to help as many woman as possible find their true comfortable GLAM style. "What a way to start our ten year celebrations with a 'salon refurb.'"

TIP: Samantha is on my Women In Business To Watch list because her social media is innovative, and she takes pride in the progress of her salon.  She's always at the cutting edge!

QUOTE: "My life is like a movie... Be GLAM, Stay Epique ALWAYS!"

Kittie Walker - Co-Founder & Marketing Strategist 

1) Your business name and general geographic location

We're Avidmode, based in the United Kingdom and serving people all over the world.

2) What does your business do?

We're a digital marketing company helping businesses to make a success of their online presence. We build websites, integrate them with whichever services you need and then help you to figure out how to get it all in front of the right audience. We also troubleshoot existing web presences by auditing the entire funnel to see where it's broken.

3) Describe your ideal client

Small to medium size businesses who have been trading for three years, but aren't seeing the return on investment from their website they'd expect and either unsure what to do about it or don't have the resources to fix it themselves.

4) Why is your business on social media?

We use it for a variety of reasons: To test out strategies and new platforms before making any recommendations to our clients; for brand awareness; to connect and have conversations with our peers, marketplace, clients and potential clients; we also use it for marketing and for the platform's paid advertising offerings.

5) What are some surprises or things you did not expect that resulted from your business social media efforts?

I never expected to make such deep and long-lasting connections and friendships with people who I've now known for years. Like you, Barbara from Late Bloomers, Roz and Beth from Earth and Moon Design, and Tricia of Flaminglacer.

6) Tell us about some notable projects you've worked on (project, event, or similar).

From a business perspective, we have worked on adding more audio and video to our blogging. From a client perspective we've completed the marketing for a U.N. Global Goals conference in London, we put the finishing touches to the web presence for a DJ, and we're looking forward to a couple of new projects launching soon.

TIP: Kittie is on my Women In Business To Watch list because she leads and nurtures an optimal business culture.  Avidmode puts out quality product!  Further, Kittie is forward thinking - She stays aware of future trends.  Where some are finally accepting that companies need to be publishers and journalists, Kittie has been practicing this for years.

QUOTE: "To me it's been about learning to breathe, to not make rash decisions and to stop chasing the shiny stuff (really hard)."

More On These Women In Business To Watch

Having worked with each of these women, they are each unique leaders in their niches.  They absolutely know how to be a successful business woman, and have each earned their own special brand of stripes.

I'm proud to know these fine women, and honored they have joined me at my Insider's Club - An exclusive group of business professionals focusing on personal and business development, as well as keeping up on social media changes.

Final Notes On Our Women In Business To Watch

You have discovered more about the eight women in business above through their answers, photos, and even their quotes.

It seems appropriate to affirm that they all exemplify these three well-known women in business quotes:

“I never dreamed about success. I worked for it.” ~Estée Lauder, Estée Lauder Companies

“My best successes came on the heels of failures.” ~Barbara Corcoran, Businesswoman

“Do not wait on a leader...look in the mirror, its you!” ~Katherine Miracle, Speaker

Have I made my case for these eight trendsetting women in business to watch in 2017?

I hope they will each comment here on their current projects and what comes next.  Please reach out to them.  Connect.  They are sure to inspire you all year long and into the future!

If you liked this post, enjoyed learning more about this group of women in business, and would like to know more about Idea Girl Media's Insider's Club, see what it's all about here.