National building franchise, Hotondo Homes, held its first Women in Business Conference recently which addressed the issues faced by women who play a pivotal role as co-director of their franchise business.

The four day conference was held at the Bell City Event Centre in Preston, Victoria, and was attended by 26 delegates from across the country.

Founder of Fernwood WomenÍs Health Clubs Diana Williams (pictured far left) was keynote speaker on day one. Other speakers throughout the conference addressed issues including unlocking people potential, leading and creating great cultures, succession planning and time management. Round table discussions were also held on common issues faced by attendees.

Hotondo Homes national operations manager Britt Allen co-ordinated the event and said attendeesÍ businesses are already benefitting from the knowledge and networking gained during the conference.

“All the delegates went home with an action plan in place to help them improve their business which we will follow up with them in the coming weeks,ÍÍ Allen said.

Delegates attended a colour selection workshop to assist clients with interior design selections. A personal styling workshop was also held on the final day of the conference.

“The colour selection and personal styling sessions were very well received as they offered simple tips that were able to be implemented immediately,ÍÍ Allen said.

Hotondo Homes national marketing manager Jodie Flower said the interaction with other attendees was just as valuable as the conference sessions.

“Attendees were able to network and get to know each other over the four days. Through discussing their own challenges they realised there were others who shared the same concerns allowing them to work through issues together.ÍÍ