|
|
|
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join?
All women who have senior-level experience or expertise, whether in the professions or business, are welcome to join CWN. Our members are drawn from the private, public and voluntary (charity) sectors, across a range of industries. Some have portfolio careers and work as Non-Executive Directors and Trustees. Others are entrepreneurs, running their own businesses, sometimes as sole traders. All are welcome, so long as they meet our criteria.
What are the qualifications for membership?
The basic qualification for membership is either five years’ senior managerial, executive or equivalent professional experience or entrepreneurial leadership of a business. We also welcome applications from high flyers or ‘up and coming managers’. All applications are considered on their own merits.
In order to be eligible for membership, you must attend at least one qualifying CWN event and find members to propose and second your application (proposer and seconder forms can be found in Resource Library in the Members’ Section of this website). We operate a friendly “buddy” scheme where those who have no personal links with CWN can contact an established member for information, advice on the joining process or a friendly face to look out for at the first event.
What does it cost?
Our annual subscription fees are £120, but if you pay by standing order, the fee is reduced to £90. There is a one-off joining fee of £120, so the first year's full cost is £240. The subscription year runs from January to December - if you join from July onwards you only pay £60 subscription, plus the £120 joining fee i.e. £180. Associate membership is available to those who have moved out of London or whose personal circumstances have changed. Please apply to the Administrative Office for details.
What are the benefits?
The benefits include a full calendar of excellent events every month, ranging from social evenings to professional talks. These events provide plenty of opportunities to network with speakers and peers and build business and social relationships. Members can learn from and share experiences with other members. CWN has strong links with both European Professional Women’s Network and The International Alliance for Women. And it provides practical benefits such as discounts to events, a quarterly newsletter, "Connections," a directory of members (with contact details) and access to our Trustees Register.
What is the European Professional Women's Network?
The European Professional Women's Network is a vibrant growing pan-European network of more than 10 women's organisations whose objective is to provide women with the tools, networks and support they need to assume leadership. It aims to share knowledge across Europe, and is participating in several Europe-wide initiatives.
It combines a sophisticated online networking platform, linking several thousand business women across Europe, with regular, offline events in many cities across Europe. Any member of one affiliated network is welcome to participate in events in all the other affiliated networks.
What is TIAW?
The International Alliance for Women (TIAW) serves as a global umbrella organization that unites, supports and promotes professional women and their networks, encouraging them to work together, share resources and leverage ideas.
Can I join if I am unemployed?
Certainly, as long as you meet the criteria and qualifications for membership. We welcome experienced women who have recently left work or are between jobs.
Do I have to be a member to attend events?
No, you can come as a member’s guest. If you don’t know anyone at CWN, you can let us know, and we will ensure that the event organisers or a buddy are there to meet you and make you feel welcome.
Are members guaranteed a place at events?
Pre-payment will guarantee your place, so we urge you to pay either on-line or by cheque to our Administrative Office before the event date.
How can I get more involved?
CWN operates through a committee structure. Our committees are Business, Marketing, Membership, Personal Development and Social Activities. We also have a Board, which meets monthly and directs the activities of the network. If you’re keen to be involved in the Committees or the Board, please contact Nicola Stevens, President, on .
My company would like to sponsor CWN. How can we make this happen?
There are many ways your company can sponsor CWN. Examples include providing premises for meetings and events, sponsoring tables at our Annual Dinner and paying for a print-run of Connections. Additionally, we offer special terms for corporate members, allowing members of staff to join as a group. Contact Anna Roads, Chairman of Marketing, on .
|
|