Innovative Networking Group designed to Empower Women

(MICHIGAN) Networking is a buzz word constantly used by career coaches and professionals trying to get ahead. 

But for Angela Schalow, a West Michigan Insurance agent, the traditional way of networking just wasn't cutting it. 

"What would it look like if I stopped doing what I was told and instead went out and tried to network in a way where I was having fun, where I'm being my authentic introverted self?" said Schalow. 

The question she asked herself led to Schalow founding SWAN, the Strong Women Arise Network in 2019. 

SWAN is a Facebook group with over 1,200 members that allows women to network online and at monthly in-person events.  

"When they come to SWAN and they find out that other women are facing the same struggles they are, especially those of us that are entrepreneurial they find a sense of comradery and it makes a big difference," said Schalow. 

For the last two years, SWAN has held an all-day conference "SWANCON", designed to give women a chance to hear from each other and enjoy the comradery. 

Schalow says she regularly hears from women who feel like SWAN has enhanced their lives. 

Recently she heard from a woman who remembered SWAN when she was struggling with imposter syndrome at a work conference. 

"She reached out to let me know that what she was thankful for was SWAN, that she remembered this group of women who care about her, who recommend her, who check in on her and that really gave her that confidence that she needed," said Schalow. 

SWAN is designed for introverts, extroverts, women in all industries, and stay-at-home moms. Schalow says she and other women in the group have grown their businesses through SWAN but also formed friendships. 

"Embracing who we are as women, looking at our feminine energy as strength, and not as weakness really unlocks the doors to our success," said Schalow. 

SWAN currently has three chapters in Michigan but Schalow says she would love to see it expand to other states. If you would like to start  SWAN chapter in your city you can reach Schalow at: angela@swansuccess.com.