Who's on your board of advisors?

PHOTO: Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard and Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce President Johnna Struck at a recent Chamber luncheon mixer.



Who do you go to when looking for business, professional or even personal advice?
For many Chamber members, it's a circle of friends they've cultivated over time that are people whose opinions they value and expertise they trust. Friends who have expertise and knowledge that compliments your own.

Today's marketing buzz is focused on Social Media and how through Social Media you can develop relationships with peers around the world who can help mentor, advise and entertain you.

That cornerstone relationship building art has its roots in face to face meetings long before the advent of email, Twitter, Facebook and Linked In.

Many people still go "old school" with social marketing. There are many networking events available where you can meet real people, in real time. These luncheons, breakfasts and after hour events are hosted by Chambers of Commerce, service clubs, (eg: Rotary, Optimist, Lions etc.) and networking groups. These are comfortable events where you meet new people, get to know them and begin to trust the areas of their expertise.

I've been with Clarkston Area Chamber for over 13 years. During that time I've seen many members go to each other for referrals, information, inspiration, tips and tactics. When looking for ways to reduce overhead, hire better staff, reinvent marketing tactics--our members turn to each other for advice. When purchasing a new home, thinking about a motorcycle, planning a vacation--you'll see members seek out information, input, tips, and suggestions from other Chamber members.

Think about your Go-to Rolodex of support. Your I.T. team, banker, marketing advisors, your CPA, financial planner, attorney, physician, chiropractor, dentist, vet, massage therapist, plumber, electrician, gym, rehabilitation therapist--are most of them Chamber members? Are they people you met through the Chamber? Where they referred to you by another Chamber member?

Your go-to team is a board of advisors--YOUR personal board of advisors.

The Chamber can help you find just the right people to help you manage, grow, promote and build your business. The Chamber can also provide you with, fun, social and effective opportunities to stay in touch.

With over three networking events a month at our Chamber there's plenty of opportunity to connect and keep in touch. While we also participate heavily in Twitter, Linked In and Facebook--we know that nothing really quite beats good old fashioned face to face networking.