Barb Falk is Brookfield Chamber’s Business Person of the Month

The Brookfield Chamber’s Business Person of the Month recognizes an exceptional business member. The monthly recognition is given to a Chamber member that excels in the areas of business excellence, community engagement and entrepreneurial spirit. This business person is saluted by the Brookfield Chamber’s board of directors and featured on our website, Facebook page, LinkedIn group, and recognition at the Brookfield Chamber’s annual meeting, held annually in November.

Name: Barb Falk

Company/organization/address: Nothing Bundt Cakes, 18000 W Bluemound Rd, Brookfield, WI 53045

Website: nothingbundtcakes.com

Industry: Specialty retail/bakery

• What was the smartest thing your company did in the past year?

The smartest thing we have done by far is to get involved in our community. We’ve done that by joining the Greater Brookfield Chamber of Commerce. Starting to develop relationships with other business owners and finding ways to give back in our community is a great way to start out our business.

• How many years have you been in business?

This is a new career for me, but people are people. I’ve always taken care of people in my past careers, and this is really no different. It’s about finding out what people need from you, and delivering far more than you promise. Being genuine with people is one of the best ways to get them to open up to you, and this allows you to serve them better.

• What advice can you give to struggling business owners?

I’m way too new as a business owner to give much advice, but I would say if a business is struggling, get out and make new connections. Find ways to give back in your local community through your business. Networking with other business owners is a very positive step in the right direction and could open doors that wouldn’t otherwise be available.

• As someone doing business in the metro Milwaukee area, how does the Brookfield Chamber help you?

The Brookfield Chamber has been immensely helpful to our business. There are so many talented, genuine, caring people in the Chamber, and they are very active in their community. They provide invaluable networking opportunities, learning opportunities, and so much support to their members. We are so glad we joined the Brookfield Chamber!

• Do you have any advice for new business owners?

Take time to hire the people that not only fit the job, but that fit the culture you want to create in your business. The skills our employees need to do their jobs can be taught, but the right attitude, a positive outlook, good work ethic, and genuine desire to be part of a team are more difficult to teach. We hired for these traits and have started to build a great team so far. We also make it a priority to make our employees feel valued, have input, and be recognized for a job well done. Sharing in our early successes with our employees is very important in making sure they know we value the work they are doing.

• What would your colleagues be surprised to find out about you?

As a young girl I twirled baton competitively for about 8 years, and I was a dancer for Trinity Academy of Irish Dance for a short time as well. I twirled baton at competitions throughout the Midwest and was in every local parade growing up. I danced at Irish Fest a few times and was in parades and competitions for dance as well.

• How long have you been a Brookfield Chamber member?

We just joined the Chamber a couple of months ago, and it was the best decision we could have made as new business owners!

Greater Brookfield Chamber of Commerce is the largest business organization in Brookfield, and the leading business organization representing the interests of business in Brookfield and the surrounding area. GBCC recognizes the value in creating collaborative partnerships with other chambers in Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties. These partnerships expand the reach, influence, and visibility of the Greater Brookfield Chamber of Commerce and provide additional benefits to its membership.

For more information, please contact Carol White, President, Greater Brookfield Chamber of Commerce, at 262-786-1886 or carol@brookfieldchamber.com. www.brookfieldchamber.com