Frequently Asked

Questions

Whether you are a new visitor or a long-time supporter, this page is designed to address common questions about our organization, services, and processes. Browse through our frequently asked questions to discover more about who we are and what we do.

About Membership

  • PWCC offers a variety of opportunities to expand your connections and build meaningful relationships, including:

    1. A wide range of events in Chicago: Held throughout the week, including mornings, lunchtimes, and evenings, to fit your schedule. Most events are live with a few virtual offerings. Members receive discounts and complimentary entry depending on the event. 

    2. Luncheon Structured Professional Networking: We've created a simple way to get to know people quickly, and share your professional asks. We call it the “3 Ps” (more detail below).

    3. Coffee or Cocktails Meet-Ups: Informal gatherings to connect with members in a relaxed setting. 

    4. Special Interest Groups (SIGs): Smaller, focused groups tailored to specific industries or interests.

    5. Mentorship Matching: Pairing members with mentors for professional growth.

    6. Access to the Member Directory: A valuable resource for connecting with other members.

    7. Leadership Opportunities: Join a committee or the board to expand your network while contributing to the organization.

    8. Members-only Slack channel: Whether you’re looking for people in your neighborhood to grab a drink with or seeking volunteers for your event, post to our Slack channel

  • At the luncheons, we facilitate networking at each table using the  “3 P’s” format: 

    1. PWCC: Explain how you discovered the organization, what you are involved in, or what you’re hoping to gain from it.

    2. Professional: Share what you do for work and if you have any specific asks, such as client referrals, information, or job opportunities.

    3. Personal: Offer a fun fact about yourself, such as other organizations you’re involved with, details about your family, or your favorite hobbies. See who might be interested in joining you!

  • Your membership fees are essential to sustaining PWCC and ensuring we deliver value to our community. They help cover:

    • Professional Management Services: Supporting day-to-day operations through our management company.

    • Technology Infrastructure: Maintaining our website and membership software for a seamless experience.

    • Event Costs: While we aim to break even on events, your fees help ensure their quality and accessibility.

    Your contributions enable us to create a thriving network and provide meaningful opportunities for personal and professional growth.

  • Absolutely! Please email admin@pwcc.org.

  • Choose a membership level and fill out the application form here.

  • We have two intakes each year for our mentorship program - once in the fall semester and once in the winter/spring semester. Click here for more details and to submit your interest in participating as either a mentor or mentee.

  • All memberships are 12 months from your registration date.

General Questions

  • Yes, definitely. Just select the “Guest” option on the event registration page and follow the instructions from there to enter their details. 

  • Absolutely! We have a vibrant community of guests, and we'd love for you to join us and experience what PWCC has to offer. Guests are welcome to attend up to three events during our program year (July 1 – June 30). Our recommendation is:

    • 1 Speaker Luncheon

    • 1 Progressive Networking Luncheon

    • 1 Additional Event of your choice, such as a Fireside Chat or Special Interest Group (SIG) meet-up

    This gives non-members the opportunity to explore the group and see if membership is the right fit before committing.

  • Our Member Directory is a great resource for members to search and connect with each other. We also invite you to join our members-only Slack channel—a space to share job opportunities, volunteer openings, questions, upcoming events you’re putting on, and more. Whether you're looking for advice, seeking a plus-one for an event, or sharing an opportunity, our Slack community is here to support you!

  • PWCC offers two main types of speaking opportunities, and you can nominate yourself or someone you know:

    • Fireside Chats: These sessions provide a platform for current PWCC members to share their expertise with the community. Submit a nomination here.

    • Luncheons: We invite accomplished women from outside PWCC to inspire and connect with our members. Submit a nomination here.

  • PWCC grows primarily through referrals, and we deeply appreciate our members who help connect others to the group. To show our gratitude, we launched the PWCC Connector Program in 2025 to recognize members who refer two or more people within a membership year.

    As a thank-you, PWCC Connectors will receive a “PWCC Connector” pin, be entered for a chance to win the Connector of the Year Award, and receive an invitation to our annual Heart & Soul appreciation event.

    Referrals are tracked through the membership application form, which includes a required question about how new members discovered PWCC. Thank you for helping us grow and strengthen our community!

  • We would love to hear them! Send any ideas and feedback to admin@pwcc.org.

  • We are sorry to hear that! Drop us an email to admin@pwcc.org and we would be happy to help. 

About Sponsorship

  • Becoming a PWCC sponsor offers numerous advantages, including:

    • Creating Access to Professional Development Resources: Empower your staff with opportunities to participate in PWCC luncheons, Special Interest Groups (SIGs), and mentoring programs, fostering growth and engagement.

    • Enhancing Brand Loyalty: Showcase your organization’s commitment to strengthening the economic vitality of Chicago, and supporting professional women. 

    • Reaching a Targeted Audience: Connect with a community of highly engaged, successful women professionals in Chicago.

    • Maximizing Value: Enjoy savings on event tickets and access exclusive benefits tailored to sponsors.

  • PWCC offers a range of sponsorship opportunities to suit your needs, including:

    • Year-Long Sponsorships: Gain sustained visibility throughout the program year.

    • Event-Specific Sponsorships: Highlight your brand at one-time events like luncheons or networking sessions.

    For more details, reach out to us at admin@pwcc.org.

  • We offer sponsorship levels designed to accommodate organizations of all sizes, from solopreneurs to multinational corporations.

    • Explore Our Core Packages: Visit this link for details on our sponsorship tiers.

    • Contact Us: Reach out to admin@pwcc.org to discuss how we can tailor a sponsorship package to meet your goals.

About Committees

  • Joining a committee allows you to:

    • Make an Impact: Create resources and events to build strength in our professional community. 

    • Build Your Brand and Reputation: Showcase your skills and establish yourself as a leader within the PWCC community.

    • Highlight Your Expertise: Contribute your knowledge to meaningful projects while gaining visibility among peers.

    • Expand Your Network: Collaborate closely with other members, building deeper connections and relationships.

    • Develop Leadership Skills: Gain valuable experience in teamwork, project management, and decision-making.

  • Joining a committee is simple!

    1. Explore Your Options: Learn about the various committees here. 

    2. Express Your Interest: Fill out the form at the bottom of the web page linked above indicating your area of interest. 

    3. Connect with Committee Leaders: Once we receive your form, we’ll put you in touch with the committee leaders who will share with you the projects their team is working on and when their next monthly meeting is. 

    4. Get involved: Share your expertise and offer to help on a project. You decide how much you have time to dedicate.

  • Committee members are expected to:

    • Commit Time and Effort: Participate in regular monthly committee meetings and contribute to projects. 

    • Collaborate with Team Members: Work effectively with other committee members to achieve shared goals.

    • Uphold PWCC Values: Represent the organization professionally and positively.

    • Engage Actively: Be proactive in sharing ideas, completing tasks, and supporting the committee’s initiatives.

About the Board

  • Serving on the PWCC Board is a meaningful way to give back while gaining valuable personal and professional benefits. As a board member, you will:

    • Make an Impact: Play a key role in shaping PWCC’s future and fostering a supportive community for professional women.

    • Increase Your Visibility: Establish yourself as a leader within PWCC and the broader professional network, including the opportunity to serve as a luncheon table facilitator.

    • Boost Your Credibility: Gain recognition for your contributions and strengthen your professional reputation.

    • Develop Public Speaking Skills: Represent the board at luncheons and events, share updates, and build confidence in public speaking.

    • Enjoy Exclusive Perks: Receive a $15 discount code to share with your network, helping you grow connections while supporting PWCC.

    If you're passionate about giving back, growing your leadership skills, and making meaningful connections, we encourage you to consider joining the PWCC Board!

    1. Get Involved in a Committee: Start by volunteering for a committee to gain experience. Learn more here.

    2. Express Interest in a Board Position: Let your Committee Co-Chairs or current board members know that you’re interested in joining the board. They can keep you informed about upcoming vacancies.

    3. Obtain Two Nominations: You’ll need two nominations to be considered for a board position—one can be a self-nomination, and the other must come from a fellow member. Submit your nomination here.

  • Board members are expected to:

    • Commit Time and Leadership: Attend monthly board meetings, plan monthly committee meetings, contribute to strategic planning, and oversee specific initiatives. We ask for a commitment of two years.

    • Engage Actively: Support PWCC events, recruit new members, and participate in committee activities.

    • Represent PWCC Professionally: Be an ambassador for the organization, upholding its mission and values.

    • Collaborate Effectively: Work closely with fellow board members to achieve organizational goals.

  • The PWCC board is made up of dedicated members who bring diverse expertise and leadership skills. The board includes:

    • Executive Roles: President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary.

    • Committee Chairs: areas such as Communications, Community Outreach, Membership Engagement, Programs and Sponsorships.

    You can find the full list of current board members here.

  • Members who serve on the board are eligible to be nominated for President. The standard service is a commitment of three years - one year as Vice President, one year as President, and one year as Immediate Past President (advisory role).

  • Yes, here is a link to the training.