Written By Jan Sims
MIDDLESEX COUNTY - There’s a new book club in Middlesex County-and it’s all business. Or at least, it’s aimed at members of the local business community.
The Small Business Book Club was recently launched by Erin Bouchard, owner of Once Upon a Time Weddings in Strathroy. “As a small business owner myself, books have been an integral part of my journey and learning process. I’ve read countless books that have shaped who I am and who my business is today,” says Bouchard. “Being a small business owner can be incredibly isolating. So, I want to create a safe place where small business owners can meet, share ideas and grow together,” adds Bouchard.
The book club meets on the first Thursday of every month to discuss the book that’s been selected. “Each month participants will be given a breakdown of the book including approximately how many pages to read each month and reflection questions,” says Bouchard.
For March, the first book being discussed will be Permission to Screw Up: How I Learned to Lead by Doing (Almost) Everything Wrong by Kristen Hadeed. It’s an often-humorous look at achieving business success. “I think the hardest part for me will be only picking one book per month! Each month we’ll tackle one book on leadership, marketing, strategy, finance, and personal development,” says Bouchard.
Bouchard says reaction from members of the small business community has been good, and that there’s room for more to join. “I want it to become so much more than just a book club,” says Bouchard. “Business today looks so different than five, ten, fifteen years ago. We need each other more than ever. We need to be innovating, pivoting, strategizing and growing. I think a book club is a great way to do that. It gives us the opportunity to get to know other small business owners while also learning and growing our businesses together,” adds Bouchard.
People interested in joining the book club and finding more information can go online at https://www.celebratestrathroy.ca/book-club.
