PUB Spotlight: Barbara Giesing

The Plano Chamber is excited to spotlight the members of the first ever Plano United Business (PUB) cohort! We welcomed 10 minority owned small businesses to patriciate in this customized 2-year mentorship program which provides opportunities for growth through membership, education, mentorship, and relationship building.

Veronica Andrulat, our Program Manager, asked Owner & COO of BAG HR Consulting, Barbara Giesing, a few questions about her business, her experience in the PUB program, Chamber membership, and more.

1. Tell us a little about yourself!

I’m owner of BAG HR Consulting with 30+ years of experience in all aspects of HR, working with small to global organizations. I hold a Bachelor’s in Journalism, News/Editorial Writing, a Master’s in Public Affairs, am licensed as a SHRM-SCP and a SPHR, am a CPSP and certified in Small Business Management. I also clearly loves acronyms!

2. What would you like readers to know about your business? What do you specialize in?

Businesses can’t be successful without the right people, and often, culture is at the heart of the matter. Whether needing help with best practices, an audit, creation of policies, or management and/or employee trainings, I can help. This can leave business owners and staff energized and allow them to let go of the drama, reduce risk, and concentrate on business products and services! I’m also open to speaking engagements on HR related topics and have spoken to a variety of audiences.

3. What does Plano United Business program mean to you? What have you learned/gained through the program and/or your mentor?

PUB has given me the opportunity to meet with others in similar situations—small business owners trying to determine best practices and learn from each other. It’s been a great opportunity for networking and finding others who can reciprocate referrals within our community to help Plano grow. It’s also given me insight into the Plano Chamber, providing some great resources.

4. Tell us about your involvement in the Plano community (and Plano Chamber outside of the Plano United Business program).

I’ve been able to attend multiple Chamber events outside of PUB that have been welcome learning and networking opportunities: Success in Business and Women’s Division events are two Chamber category examples. I’m also part of a small business Mastermind group thru the Chamber. In addition, I’ve been attending various networking groups within Plano and the surrounding cities and am involved with Collin County HR (serving on the CCHR committee) and Plano Women for Good (as a founding member).

5. Why did you choose Plano/Collin County for your business/home?

I’ve lived in the North Texas area for many years and have always been supportive of Plano/Collin County due to its commitment to the companies and citizens within the community. We are fortunate to have a wide variety of options for the basics in life as well as good schools, entertainment and sports, and there are lots of resources to help with virtually any need. The “City of Excellence” attracts employers and provides a good quality of life. We rank highly in most “Best Places to Live” surveys for valid reasons! It’s also a great place for a small business owner!

6. Share with us what the future for your business looks like (or your professional career).

I’m excited about the future of my company; it’s in its infancy and I can see the potential for growth. There are ample companies in the area that can utilize and benefit from my services and I’m building a network of referral partners who can work with me to provide best practices to companies and our community. The city is supportive of small business owners and I certainly appreciate the help!