Networking Event in Garwood Features Keynote on Leadership

The eWomenNetwork Central New Jersey chapter is hosting an Accelerated Networking Event on August 19, 2026, at The Westwood in Garwood. Keynote speaker Steph Koenig will present on a leadership dynamic she calls The Competence Trap™, a pattern that affects capable leaders in professional environments.

Union County Life covers Garwood business, professional development, and community events across all 21 Union County municipalities.

Understanding the Competence Trap

The Competence Trap occurs when capable leaders become so dependable that everyone around them relies on them for everything. Cheryl Marks Young, a Certified Business, Executive & Leadership Coach and Managing Director for eWomenNetwork supporting Northern and Central New Jersey, describes the dynamic through common workplace phrases: "I'll just ask you," "You always know what to do," and "If anyone can figure it out, you can."

These phrases signal a pattern that often leaves capable leaders exhausted and overwhelmed. Young poses a critical question: "Are people depending on your leadership, or are they depending on your availability?"

The Reclaim Collective Framework

Koenig addresses the challenge through a framework called The Reclaim Collective™, which focuses on reclaiming key aspects of life that women often sacrifice in pursuit of professional excellence and reliable performance. The framework addresses time, energy, confidence, boundaries, joy, and purpose—elements that form the foundation of sustainable leadership and personal well-being.

Event Details

The networking event provides an opportunity for women in business to connect with peers while exploring practical approaches to leadership challenges. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, August 19, 2026, at The Westwood, Garwood.

Connect and Learn More

For more information or to register, women in business can contact Cheryl Marks Young, Managing Director for eWomenNetwork Central New Jersey, at 908-345-0382 or visit www.cherylmarksyoung.com. The eWomenNetwork Central New Jersey chapter page is at https://www.ewomennetwork.com/chapters/672.

Find more Garwood business, professional development, and networking events on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: What is The Competence Trap?
A: The Competence Trap is a leadership dynamic where capable leaders become so dependable that everyone around them relies on them for everything, often leaving leaders exhausted despite their competence.

Q: When is the eWomenNetwork networking event?
A: The event is Tuesday, August 19, 2026, at The Westwood in Garwood.

Q: Who is speaking at the eWomenNetwork event?
A: Steph Koenig is the keynote speaker. She will present on The Competence Trap and The Reclaim Collective framework.

Q: What is The Reclaim Collective?
A: The Reclaim Collective is a framework addressing time, energy, confidence, boundaries, joy, and purpose—elements that women often sacrifice in pursuit of professional success.

Q: Who should attend?
A: The networking event is designed for women in business looking to connect with peers and explore leadership challenges.

Q: What is eWomenNetwork?
A: eWomenNetwork is a professional organization that hosts networking events and provides business development resources for women entrepreneurs and professionals.

Q: How do I register or get more information?
A: Contact Cheryl Marks Young at 908-345-0382 or visit www.cherylmarksyoung.com. The chapter page is at https://www.ewomennetwork.com/chapters/672.