Mastering the Membership Maze with Glen Gould"These are trying times." How many times have we heard some variation of this tired phrase regurgitated over the past several months? Regardless of who we meet or where we go, the economy is on everyone's mind. So let's talk about how we can take advantage of "these trying times".
There are five key strategies that will ensure your success now and that you are properly positioned when we come through this economy.
- Be a member of a chamber of commerce. I was at a meeting in late 2006 where panelists were discussing the coming downturn in the economy. Members of the chamber knew this recession was coming nearly eighteen months before everyone else did. Why? Chambers are the "house of business" and trends are identified long before they become commonplace. At the "house of business" leaders of companies from various industries have a forum to discuss what is happening in their industry and others. Be on the cutting edge of what is happening by joining your local chamber today.
- Participate in chamber events. Sure joining will give you access to leaders and information, but like the proverbial health club membership, it doesn't work unless you use it. Visit your chamber often. Send your staff when you cannot attend. There is no substitute for participation.
- Meet new people each time you attend an event. Most people are afraid. They go to events and hope someone nice comes up to them and starts a conversation with them. Be that person. Make it easy to get to know you. The best line to use to start a conversation at a chamber event is "hi". Be friendly and just say "hi". You'll be amazed at how quickly your network will grow.
Ask "who do you need to meet?" Everyone is there to meet someone. They may not have thought of it that way and they may not be ready for the question, but asking them shows that you are willing to help. Most people think about themselves most of the time. You'll stand out when you offer to help people succeed. Hold one on one meetings with people with the specific purpose of helping them connect with the people they need to meet. When you do, people will begin helping you meet the people you need to meet. - Understand the chamber mission and volunteer. The real power of the chamber network can be seen when you volunteer to work side-by-side with others to achieve a common goal. When you serve the chamber you serve your community and yourself. There is no better investment of your time than to volunteer to help the chamber achieve a worthy goal.
By joining your chamber and getting involved you will be ahead of the crowd and better able to adjust to economic trends. If members of chambers were discussing what is happening today eighteen months ago, what trends are they discussing today that will be happening in the near future? Get involved in your local chamber and find out now. You simply cannot afford not to "in these trying economic times".
Glen Gould
770-745-5102
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