We all know it when we see it, but how do we hire it, train it and deliver great customer service? Just as importantly, how do we manage customer communications whether in our establishments or online? Using the books and DVD's created by Zing Train, the training business developed by Zingerman's Community of Businesses, you will learn how She has adapted these materials to her restaurant. Sharon will also give you the most up-to-date information on the cutting-edge technology that can capture customer feedback before your customers are out the door. You will leave with materials that you can immediately adapt and implement and a list of great reference materials that will support you long term.

Sharon Watkins, Owner Chez Zee American Bistro

Keynote Address: Transition Yourself to Success

Antonia Allegra, career/writing coach, author/editor

Several years ago, we began hearing that the average baby boomer changed jobs some seven times during the first decade or two of her or his career. Now we read that the average is closer to eleven new positions between ages 18 to 42. Without question, we professional women in the kaleidoscopic food world - no matter what age - must be on top of our game to count on success. And what is success? We might be speaking of a six-figure income, a series of published books, international chef recognition, or other forms of accomplishment. Antonia Allegra, career and writing coach to food professionals, will present winning directions of leaders in our field. How do they use the five key steps to achieve positive lasting success? Which methods will strengthen your career and contribute to your life?

Session 5: Life as a Work of Heart

Diana Von Welanetz Wentworth, blogger, journalist, author

Through the weaving of the story of her forty-year trail-blazing career in food and entertaining, Diana reveals her discovery of the red thread of meaning behind it all. She invites each of us to take a heartful overview of our histories to glimpse the pattern our futures will reveal.

A popular speaker, food blogger and travel journalist, Diana is the author of many award-winning cookbooks and co-author of Chicken Soup for the Soul Cookbook. Twenty-five years ago, she and her late husband, Paul von Welanetz founded the Inside Edge, a visionary weekly breakfast gathering. The enterprise has launched the careers of many of the most celebrated authors and speakers in the human potential movement.