Member Spotlight, Meet Nicole Walsh!

Meet Nicole Walsh!
 

Nicole Walsh, Franchise Owner of Aerus/Beyond by Aerus and husband, Tom Walsh

How many years have you been in business?

Our Store has been on Kirkwood HWY for 49 years.  My husband, Tom, has owned it since 1999.  I joined in 2016 to launch the Beyond by Aerus brand.

What is an interesting fact about your business most people don’t know?

We offer appliances that sanitize your air and surfaces that are currently being used at the Liberty Bell, ground zero museum, The Pentagon, and now the Vatican!  We have also been recognized in the Smithsonian for several innovations in cleaning technologies over the years.

What motivates you?

I am self-driven by nature, but I get the most enjoyment from helping others reach their goals.  I have been a coach and trainer in most roles I have had over the years.  It is the most rewarding part of my career.

When you are not working, where do you like to spend your time?

Our family is very active both physically and socially.  We have 5 children (2 still at home) and one grandchild.  Each member of our family has hobbies, sports, or entertainment types of performances that we all attend in support.   When my husband and I do have a free time, we like to spend it traveling. 

Why are you a Chamber member? How long have you been a Chamber member?

I have been a proud member of the chamber since 2016.  I joined, and stayed, because of the benefits I get as a small business owner.  I am grateful for the support and resources available to me and for the connections I have made that have driven my business in ways I could not have for seen.

What aspect of the chamber have you taken advantage of the most?

Networking groups and events!  I have been a member of the Producer’s Referral Group since January 2017.  The group has introduced me to countless connections, alerted me to events, kept me up to date on business news, gotten me discounts and offers, and I have created friendships that have carried over outside of the chamber.

What advice would you give a new (or current) chamber member?

Try a networking group or at least attend the networking events.  As the adage goes, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know” (and who they know, and who they know)

How has the chamber changed the way you do business?

I have stopped wasting time cold calling.  I learned the fastest way to get in front of someone is to be introduced by someone else.  I have learned to cast a large net with my connections.