Hey! It’s me Doreen.
Being members of large professional associations has its advantages. You can attend networking breakfasts and luncheons and sit in on informative seminars about your industry. You will keep abreast of the latest trends in technology and learn new philosophies on how to grow your business—all great ideas for the small business owner!
We at Custom Direct are members of several large marketing associations, but we are always looking for new ways to get the word out about who we are and what we do. After all, we are in the communications business.
Recently, we joined the Roselle Chamber of Commerce. Our business has been located here for nine years. I guess we never really thought about joining before now. Talk about networking opportunities! Since joining earlier this year, we’ve been attending Chamber functions and getting to know other local business owners in social settings. To our surprise, many of the “locals” weren’t even familiar with our company! Our goal is to change that.
On Wednesday, Geoff and I volunteered at the Roselle Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Outing held at the Bloomingdale Golf Club. As volunteers, it was our job to persuade golfers to pay to participate in a contest that tested their accuracy and skill as golfers. We had to “sell” them on the idea that they could help our charitable cause and have fun doing it. It was a great way for us to introduce ourselves and our company in a fun and non-threatening manner. We met some folks who could be potential clients and a few who might be future partners. The good-will that we established within the community by volunteering our time will go along way for us as a business in Roselle.
If you are looking for a way to build your reputation within your community and get your name out there, sometimes you don’t have to look any further than your own backyard. I would highly recommend joining your local chamber and get involved!
