From the Source: Michele Williams and WCAA
As we kick off 2020, WCAA has made it a priority of ours to start the new decade the right way. That is to say, we want to make sure we’re connected to our members and that our members feel connected to us.
To accomplish this goal, we’ve decided to start a series of interviews with members like you – asking about your experiences with WCAA, what you’ve gained, what you want to see in the future, and anything else you want us (and others) to know!
Michele Williams, Scarlet Thread Consulting
So, in 2020, WCAA is reaching out to bring you experiences From the Source.
First up? Michele Williams, Business Coach, Strategic Advisor, and founder of Scarlet Thread Consulting.
Michele has been a member of WCAA since 2007 and is one of the few certified Profit First coaches in the United States! In addition to coaching, Michele hosts workshops, provides online training, and also offers educational seminars on a variety of business topics around the country.
With such an extensive, ambitious background and a membership spanning 13 years, we knew Michele would be the perfect start to this series!
WCAA: What made you decide to join WCAA?
Michele: I joined because of my local chapter. There were no real online groups at the time, and I needed community. Our local Atlanta chapter was where I found my people. Also, being part of a national organization felt very reaffirming and confidence building to me.
WCAA: What would you say you’ve gained since joining WCAA, professionally or personally?
Michele: This is easy. Friendships and support hands down. Some of my best friends in the industry have come from WCAA, both national and local. I have met amazing people with the same interests as me. I have traveled to almost every chapter at some point and been involved with many in a multitude of ways. Knowing that we are all working to better our skillsets and professionalism of this industry is energizing. My immediate benefit was not feeling alone in this business and that continues through today.
WCAA: What is your fondest memory from your time with WCAA thus far?
Michele: Helping put on and create the Inspire conference. Attending it was amazing. I also love the conferences where WCAA has a party and we all get together to hang out.
WCAA: How has being involved with WCAA impacted your career and/or business?
Michele: It gave me confidence when I was new, it gave me mentors when I needed them, it gave me opportunities to give back by serving both on the Atlanta and National board of directors, it gave me the ability to see the impact and reach of our industry outside of my own workroom and area, and it gave me a focused community to support the industry. And did I mention my best friends?
WCAA: Have you attended any WCAA events/conferences? If so, how were your experiences?
Michele: Yes! I have attended our meet up and conference days at IWCE years ago, our Inspire conference we had for two years, and our parties that we are currently having along with the CWC. Not to mention the individual conferences and seminars held by local chapters. They all have been so well done and have offered the opportunity to network and gain skills to move our businesses forward.
WCAA: What would you say to those who are on the fence about whether or not a WCAA membership is right for them?
Michele: Almost every industry has an organization that is gathering and working on their behalf. We are blessed to have one for the window treatment industry. Until I was involved, I really did not understand the depth and breadth of this industry. There is a lot more going on than creating beautiful window treatments. Keeping up with safety, standards, education, vendors, etc. is part of what WCAA offers. Being part of a community that is focused on professionalism and education and furthering our talent is a must have for me and I hope for others who are looking to make our creative offerings a well-respected career path for a long time to come.
Michele’s company, Scarlet Thread Consulting
We had such a wonderful time connecting to Michele and getting to see how WCAA has impacted her life, both professionally and personally! We love hearing about the many accomplishments and journeys of our members, and Michele is certainly no exception.
Thank you, Michele for taking the time to be our very first featured member! If you or someone you know would be interested in being featured, or would like to share your experiences privately, reach out to us at marketing@wcaa.org!