10 TIPS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR MEMBERSHIP WITH THE WCC
Contributed By: Paula Ehrlich
You’ve joined the WCC to increase your visibility and business network within the community. The following are some simple suggestions to help you get the most out of your membership:
1. Take a long-term view and understand that business is built on establishing relationships. People do business with people they like and trust.
2. Attend all events with the mindset of providing value to others. Ask how you can help them achieve their goals.
3. Have a clear understanding of what it is you are marketing and how someone might also help you. Don’t be shy about asking for business.
4. Develop your 30 second commercial and make sure it contains a “what’s in it for you” statement.
5. Always bring plenty of business cards and relevant marketing materials.
6. Set a goal for how many new contacts you would like to make at each event and respect others’ desire to do the same. Once you’ve established rapport, set a time to meet at another date and always follow up.
7. Understand you are there to network, not to eat or drink. Act as the host by introducing yourself and helping to connect others.
8. When attending an event, work the room in quadrants starting with the bar area first because that is where the majority of people congregate.
9. Make sure your company’s materials are included in the WCC’s new membership packages and use every opportunity to publicize your business.
10. Serve on a committee and/or take a leadership role within the organization.
Paula Ehrlich is a Past Chair of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce of Miami-Dade County and is active in many community organizations. She is also the Founder and President of A Privileged Lifestyle, a global marketing and distribution company that brings new technology products to market in 40 countries. You may contact her at 305-530-1597 or email.
– Back to Fall 2010 Newsletter Index
