Mahwah, NJ (October 7, 2008). Dr. Annette S. Freund, Owner and Managing Director of Freund Associates Technical Communication in Mahwah, was the guest lecturer for business students at Ramapo College on the topic of “Becoming an Entrepreneur.” 

Dr. Freund’s presentation included an entrepreneurial self-quiz, discussion, and candid stories about her experiences as a woman entrepreneur. “There’s no recipe for starting and owning your own business,” said Dr. Freund. “But anyone who is self-employed would tell you that a key ingredient is perseverance.”

What energizes Dr. Freund is the lasting relationships she has developed with her clients and writers (Freund Associates), many of whom have been with the company since its inception 11 years ago. “As writers, we must be good listeners. We must have good interpersonal communication skills. It doesn’t matter how good your writing is, if people don’t like you, they won’t come back.”   

Among the key challenges for women in business, Dr. Freund lists juggling a marriage, family, and business at the top of her list. “Most women can ‘expect to be expectant’ some time in their careers, so it’s important to be resourceful and prevent resume gaps.” She recommends staying active in professional organizations, keeping in touch with colleagues and business associates, and maintaining an up-to-date list of references. If necessary, include references from volunteer work and community service projects.

“Above all else,” said Dr. Freund, “entrepreneurs are dreamers.” She emphasized the truth in Oscar Hammerstein’s lyrics: ‘You’ve got to have a dream. If you don’t have a dream, how you gonna have a dream come true?’” 

Annette holds a doctorate in English/Writing Specialist from the State University of New York at Albany and has 20 years of experience in technical writing for corporations, plus 14 years of university teaching experience. In 2003, her company achieved national certification as a woman-owned business through the Women's Business Enterprise National Council.

For more information, visit www.freundassociates.com, or contact Annette Freund at 201-512-0022.