Celebrating the 13th Anniversary of My Business

 

This month, I’m celebrating the 13th anniversary of my business, Boomers’ Social Media Tutor.  After working in sales for 17 years, I went full-time with my business in 2013, when I was 64 years old.

The idea for my business actually began in March 2010, when Brett Sanborn, my manager when I held an inside sales position, asked if I had ever considered helping others in the baby boomer generation to understand social media.

Earlier that year, our company had rolled out Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. While my manager encouraged everyone on my team to chat up the company’s social media, somewhat unexpectedly I was the best at doing that chatting up.

That experience prompted Brett’s question and planting the seed for me to start a business.

Just six months later, I formed my LLC and named my business Boomers’ Social Media Tutor.  I continued with my day job for another 2 ½ years.

There’s a well-known proverb: “It takes a village.”

That certainly applies to building a business.

In this blog post, I am recognizing a few of the organizations and entities that have supported my growth over the years, plus my current business networking organizations.

Colorado Free University

Since I hadn’t worked in social media before starting my business, I knew I needed both training and a credential. I enrolled in the Online Marketing and Social Media Certification Program at Colorado Free University (CFU).

Through 11 courses, such as  Digital Marketing Strategy, Facebook for Business, and Blogging, I built a strong foundation.

In the years that followed, I had the opportunity to teach several social media courses for CFU, which was both rewarding and allowed me to come full circle – from student to instructor.

Chambers of Commerce

Shortly after retiring from sales and going full-time into my business, I joined the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce, where I was a member for nearly seven years.

That experience played a significant role in my growth as a business owner. The resources, relationships, and encouragement I found there helped me stretch, learn, and lead.

In 2016, I joined the West Metro Chamber, which serves the western suburbs of Denver—including where I live. This year marks my 10th anniversary as a member.

I’m deeply grateful for both the opportunities to contribute and the many friendships I’ve built along the way.

 

Business Networking Organizations

In addition to chambers, I’ve been actively involved in several networking organizations that continue to support my growth and allow me to serve others.

I’m currently involved in:

• Denver Area B2B Networking Group – Two chapters focused on collaboration and referrals among Denver-area businesses
• Preferred Business Network – A virtual community of entrepreneurs who meet monthly for support, ideas, and connection
• SHE Leads Group – A network for women balancing business, caregiving, and leadership, with both in-person and virtual chapters
• Lakewood Business Association – A local organization supporting business growth and community engagement in Lakewood, Colorado
• Network Referral Group (NRG) – A national networking organization centered on structured referrals and weekly connections

 

Final Thoughts

As I celebrate 13 years in business, I’m reminded that nothing happens in isolation.

It truly does take a village, and I’m grateful to be part of communities that support, challenge, and inspire me every step of the way.

Here’s to continued learning, connection, and growth.

About Joyce

Joyce Feustel helps people, especially those age 55 and up, become more effective social media users, especially LinkedIn and Facebook. She works with business owners, business development professionals, business consultants, job seekers, and others. Find her at www.boomerssocialmediatutor.com.

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