Free Business Topics in Chicago

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Now the speaker will contact you in the next few days to coordinate details.

SORT: MOST RECENT | A - Z

  • Where’s the Cash?

    John Y. Lafferty, Founder, CFO-Pro

    Helps business owners understand why profits and cash flow differ and how to manage the business more efficiently using this knowledge.

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  • Civility in the Workplace During Turbulent Times

    Bette Lawrence-Water, Founder and Principal Consultant, Spectrum Strategic Solutions

    While a discussion on workplace manners and courtesy may seem like overkill, the reality is: rudeness is an epidemic costing industry millions a year. Indeed, what society seems to be gaining in terms of both knowledge and technological advancement, it’s losing out on basic social values that directly impact the bottom line. MORE >

    This discussion introduces the concept of civility, its importance to an organization, as well as its typical causes and effects. Audience leaves with skills needed to effectively practice civil behavior, as well knowledge of different ways organizations can systematize civility in the workplace.
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  • Heart, Hustle, & Muscle: The Real Estate

    Marcus Carter, Marcus Carter, Carter Property Solutions LLC

    In a consumer driven market, many seek financial freedom and fall prey to snake oil salesmen offering life altering results based on a catchy pitch. MORE >

    The wealthy keep to themselves, adding mystery to fulfillment and success. Well I'm here to let the cat out of the bag. In this fast paced, results driven presentation, Marcus Carter uses real estate to describe an attainable, realistic path to wealth and success.

    In this presentation, participants can look to gain:

    1. Keys To Discovering What Works For You To Pursue Success And Efficiency
    2. The 3 Key Elements The Most Productive People Have At Their Disposal
    3. Actions Steps To Make Change Right After This Talk!

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  • From zero to launch: A walk-through of the website process

    Lisa Ghisolf, President & Founder, Gizmo Creative Factory, Inc.

    I’ll share my step-by-step process (honed since the days of just HTML) for WordPress website creation or redesign. We’ll touch on content audits, theme selection (or should you go custom?), launch checklists, and post-launch care. Also freelancer or client management. MORE >

    Great for those who want to launch or relaunch their sites and those who work with clients.
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  • Insecure, unsafe & slow: 10 ways to improve your WordPress website

    Lisa Ghisolf, President & Founder, Gizmo Creative Factory, Inc.

    There are thousands of plugins and tips out there – many free, but how do you narrow them down? I’ve been designing and developing WordPress sites since 2008, and I also work with corporations, nonprofits and bloggers. No matter how popular they are, I still spend a lot of time fixing hacked sites and maintaining and improving them. I’ll share the same tips I use with them to improve your site. We’ll talk social, security, speed, design and more. You’ll leave with an action plan and stronger understanding of your WordPress site.
    MORE >

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  • Think Like a CFO: Financial Strategies Every Business Leader Should Know

    Jennifer Witter, Founder and CEO, Witter Enterprise Solutions, LLC

    Strong financial leadership is essential for every successful organization, not just those in the finance department. In this presentation, Jennifer Witter shares practical insights from the perspective of a CFO to help leaders better understand financial performance, cash flow management, and strategic decision-making. Participants will learn how to interpret financial information, identify key indicators that impact business health, and make more informed decisions that support growth and stability. MORE >

    This talk is designed for executives, entrepreneurs, and managers who want to strengthen their financial awareness and lead their organizations with greater confidence.
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  • Keep It Simple: IT and Cyber Security Compliance Made Easy

    Christopher Higgins, Cyber Security Analyst, CCS Technology Group

    Tired of feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of IT and cybersecurity compliance? Look no further! In our presentation, "Keep It Simple: IT and Cyber Security Compliance Made Easy," we'll break down the jargon and provide you with practical solutions to simplify the compliance process. MORE >

    Navigating the intricate web of regulations and requirements can be daunting for any business. But fear not - we're here to guide you through the maze. Our seasoned experts will demystify the often-confusing world of compliance, presenting it in a way that even non-technical individuals can understand.

    We'll address common compliance challenges and provide actionable steps to streamline your efforts. From creating robust policies and procedures to implementing effective security controls, we'll cover the essentials to help you achieve and maintain compliance. We'll even share tips and tricks to avoid common pitfalls and optimize your compliance framework.

    At CCS, our extensive experience in the industry since 1974 sets us apart as trusted advisors. We know what works and what doesn't, and we're committed to making compliance approachable and manageable for you. Our friendly and engaging approach will ensure you leave the presentation feeling empowered and ready to tackle your compliance obligations.

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  • Empowering the Multi-Generational Workforce

    Mary Erlain, President, Peak Development Strategies

    Much has changed since 2020, and our workforce has undergone a dramatic shift. One entire generation has retired, while another has entered in greater numbers, reshaping the dynamics of our workplaces. MORE >

    We work in a diverse environment where embracing differences can drive business growth—if organizations empower their workforce to leverage their unique gifts and values. The real challenge lies in finding effective ways to do just that: fostering inclusion and enabling employees to thrive.

    Explore strategies to bridge generational gaps among staff and recognize how, often unintentionally, we might be contributing to the problem rather than being part of the solution.

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  • Stories that Connect: Building Empathy Through Personal Narrative

    Leilani Garrett, Principal Storyteller / Founder, Be More Human

    In this 90-minute interactive experience, Leilani guides participants through the process of writing and sharing their personal stories. The result? Deeper trust, increased empathy, and real connection between colleagues who usually only talk in metrics. Ideal for leadership retreats, ERG activations, or culture-building experiences, this workshop makes space for brave reflection and meaningful dialogue—and leaves teams more human than they were before. MORE >

    This is more than a workshop—it’s a reset.
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  • Own the Interview: Preparation That Reduces Anxiety

    Rosie Zilinskas, Keynote Speaker | Certified High-Performance Coach, No Woman Left Behind

    Interviews do not have to feel overwhelming. This hands-on session gives you a practical system to prepare for any interview and show up feeling calmer, clearer, and more in control. The session also introduces free AI tools like ChatGPT for ongoing interview practice. No tech experience needed. Whether you are changing careers, preparing for a promotion, or navigating an unexpected job search, you will leave with a clear plan and renewed self-assurance. MORE >

    What attendees will walk away with:
    ~ How to build a Story Vault of accomplishments so you have clear, structured examples ready for any question
    ~ Confidence-building opening phrases to start strong and command attention
    ~ Three strategies for responding when you are unsure how to answer a question, so you never freeze or go blank
    ~ How to create a 90-Day Plan that signals readiness and forward thinking to a hiring manager
    ~ A simple pre-interview routine to manage nerves and stay grounded on interview day
    ~ Access to a custom AI interview practice coach for continued preparation after the session

    Ideal for:
    ~ Job seekers at any career stage
    ~ Career changers and professionals reentering the workforce
    ~ Mid-career professionals preparing for internal interviews or promotions
    ~ Anyone who feels anxious or underprepared walking into interviews
    ~ Libraries, workforce development programs, community organizations, and corporate learning events

    Presented by Rosie Zilinskas, a Certified High Performance Coach and former Executive Vice President who has sat on both sides of the interview table during 30+ years of corporate leadership at AIG Private Client Group.

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