tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54343207150777365312024-02-07T22:15:09.651-05:00Chamber ChatThe official blog of @CACOC
Clarkston Area Chamber of CommercePenny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.comBlogger83125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-41141429455341197722013-09-09T11:34:00.002-04:002013-09-09T11:34:53.952-04:00Fall IN!<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Ah, September. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Back to school. Cleaning out closets to find the fall clothes that the kids haven't outgrown, setting alarm clocks for the entire family and creating the fire drill that is known as "the bus is coming!"</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">September is also start up time for many service clubs and organizations to kick back into full gear now that members and volunteers are no longer on vacation. Time is at a premium--there's just so much to get done--and a limited number of free hours left after soccer games, football games, band practice and church committees.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">For the Chamber, September is turbo charge time. With so much happening here's a quick reference check list to help you navigate.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;">1. Register to attend the Chamber's Annual Meeting Breakfast</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">This morning event is a fun membership appreciation event. A great opportunity to network over a gourmet breakfast buffet at Oakhurst! THURSDAY September 26, 2013 7:30 am</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;">2. Sign up to volunteer at Taste of Clarkston. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Shifts run as early as 6 a.m. and as late as 8 pm. Give 2-3 hours, wear your business logo shirt and connect with other business leaders while you serve the community.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;">3. Get your registration in for the November EXPO.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"> Earlybird discount registration is going on now--Save money by planning ahead.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;">4. Get your registration in for the October Bulls Eye Business Conference. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Three keynote speakers will be at this multi-chamber event at the end of October. The agenda includes networking time--so you get the most out of this event.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;">5. Update your chamber profile</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"> at </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;">www.clarkston.org. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">You can include a current photo, company logo, list of services, discounts and member to member offers when you log in to Members Only.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">And take heart. It does get better once we move into October. The routine of a carefully scheduled family calendar starts to sink in--and we get an extra hour when daylight savings time changes.</span>Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-74592416623182181522013-08-16T10:25:00.003-04:002013-08-16T11:06:05.749-04:00Why Downtowns are important<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As you read this list of why downtowns are important, I'm sure you'll nod your head in agreement. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes, we know much of this. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And we tend to take it for granted. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However, g</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ood downtowns don't happen by happy accident. They are carefully cultivated and need continual reinvestment.</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Why Downtowns are Important</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Downtown </b>is a symbol of:</span></div>
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<li> Community economic health</li>
<li> Partnership between the private sector and the public sector</li>
<li> Local quality of life</li>
<li> Community pride</li>
<li> Community history</li>
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<b>Downtown </b>is important factor for industrial, commercial developers, and professional <i><b>recruitment</b></i>.</div>
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<b>Downtown </b>serves as a good<i><b> incubator for new small businesses </b></i>– the success of tomorrow. </div>
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<b>Downtown </b>represents <i><b>independent business </b></i>which:</div>
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<li> Support local families</li>
<li> Support local community projects such as teams and schools</li>
<li> Keep profits in town (chain stores send profits out of town)</li>
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<b>Downtown </b>helps <i><b>reduce sprawl </b></i>by concentrating activity in one area.</div>
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<b>Downtown </b>is a <i><b>major employer</b></i>. </div>
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<b>Downtown </b>infrastructure is a <i><b>major public investment</b></i>. Only healthy businesses in buildings assessed at full value generate taxes that give taxpayers a return on this public investment.</div>
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<b>Downtown </b>revitalized <i><b>protects property values </b></i>in surrounding residential neighborhoods.</div>
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<b>Downtown </b>rehabilitation work <i><b>stimulates the local economy</b></i>. Materials and labor for new commercial construction often come from out of town.</div>
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<b>Downtown </b>is the <i><b>heart of the community</b></i> and the site for government, arts, churches, and financial institutions.</div>
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<b>Downtown </b>is an <i><b>important community space</b></i> where members of all segments of the community can meet equally for parades, speeches, and other community events.</div>
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<b>Downtown </b>can be a <i><b>tourist attraction</b></i> and is the location of a community’s unique businesses and buildings.</div>
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<b>Downtown </b>is where the <i><b>arts and culture thrive</b></i>.</div>
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<i>--source Main Street National Trust for Historic Preservation</i></div>
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As we begin exploring the resources associated with Main Street Oakland County (the first County participant in Main Street National Trust for Historic Preservation in the nation, joining in 2000), the Chamber is interested in helping the City of the Village of Clarkston and the Hamlet of Davisburg participate in these programs. We are asking what we can do better.</div>
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The City of the Village has 100% occupancy, nationally recognized restaurants, some great unique entrepreneurial shops--do we really need Main Street?</div>
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I believe that answer is yes. Firmly and unequivocally. And here's why:</div>
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<b>Let's start with what Main Street REALLY is all about.</b></div>
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Main Street utilizes a 4-point process that includes:</div>
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<b>Organization</b>--<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: #515159;">Organization establishes </span><b><u>consensus and cooperation by building partnerships</u></b><span style="color: #515159;"> among the various groups that have a stake in the commercial district. By getting everyone working toward the same goal, your Main Street program can provide effective, ongoing management and advocacy for the downtown or neighborhood business district. Through </span><b style="color: #515159;">volunteer </b><span style="color: #515159;">recruitment and </span><b style="color: #515159;">collaboration </b><span style="color: #515159;">with partners representing a broad cross section of the community, your program can incorporate a wide range of perspectives into its efforts. A governing board of directors and standing committees make up the fundamental organizational structure of </span><b style="color: #515159;">volunteer-driven revitalization programs. </b><span style="color: #515159;">Volunteers are coordinated and supported by a paid program director. This structure not only divides the workload and clearly delineates responsibilities, but also builds consensus and cooperation among the various stakeholders.</span></span></div>
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<b>Promotion</b>--</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #515159; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">Promotion takes many forms, but the goal is to create a positive image that will rekindle community pride and improve consumer and investor confidence in your commercial district. <b>Advertising, retail promotions, special events, and marketing campaigns help sell the image and promise of Main Street to the community and surrounding region. </b>Promotions communicate your commercial district's unique characteristics, business establishments, and activities to shoppers, investors, potential business and property owners, and visitors. </span></div>
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<b>Design--</b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #515159; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">Design means getting Main Street into top physical shape and <b>creating a safe, inviting environment</b> for shoppers, workers, and visitors. It takes advantage of the <b>visual opportunities </b>inherent in a commercial district by directing attention to <b>all of its physical elements: public and private buildings, storefronts, signs, public spaces, parking areas, street furniture, public art, landscaping, merchandising, window displays, and promotional materials.</b> An appealing atmosphere, created through attention to all of these visual elements, conveys a positive message about the commercial district and what it has to offer. Design activities also include instilling<b> good maintenance practices </b>in the commercial district, enhancing the district's physical appearance through the rehabilitation of historic buildings, encouraging appropriate new construction, developing sensitive design management systems, educating business and property owners about design quality, and long-term planning. </span></div>
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<b>Economic Restructuring--</b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #515159; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">Economic restructuring</span></span><b style="color: #515159; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;"> strengthens your community's existing economic assets </b><span style="color: #515159; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">while </span></span><b style="color: #515159; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">diversifying </b><span style="color: #515159; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">its economic base. This is accomplished by <b>retaining </b>and expanding successful businesses to provide a <b>balanced commercial mix, sharpening the competitiveness and merchandising skills of business owners,</b> and attracting new businesses that the market can support. <b>Converting unused or underused <u>commercial </u>space into economically productive property </b>also helps boost the profitability of the district. The goal is to build a commercial district that responds to the needs of today's consumers.</span></span></span></div>
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Some of these things are already being done well in Clarkston. We can thank the thoughtful guidance of our historic district commission and certain key business leaders.</div>
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Davisburg has unique infrastructure issues that will take longer to address, but there is a passion for preservation in Davisburg too.</div>
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If things are good in Clarkston right now? Why change?</div>
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As Stephanie, from Essence on Main, recently told me, "During this two and a half minutes of good economy we need to do what we can to make sure we are in the best business position possible."</div>
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<b>Never leave resources on the table</b></div>
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I have a philosophy that you never leave resources on the table. Main Street creates a group of resources that are dedicated to support business. These resources include dollars, but they also include expertise, volunteers, training and creating staunch advocates for SHOP LOCAL businesses.</div>
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<b>Every community can benefit through collaboration and consensus building</b></div>
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I also argue that the <b><u>process </u></b>of Main Street--the focus on organization, collaboration, consensus building, involvement, engagement and transparency-- benefits every community that utilizes it. </div>
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<b>We don't have to be afraid of Main Street</b></div>
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Main Street is NOT about converting residential homes to businesses, creating cookie cutter downtown templates or trumping community will. Remember-- Main Street is organized under the auspices of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.</div>
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Main Street does NOT give away jurisdiction and power to the County or another non-profit. The City Council, Historic Commission, Planning Commission still all ordinances are still in place.</div>
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<b>We are ready for Main Street</b></div>
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What Main Street DOES do is help us create an ideal vision for what Clarkston (and Davisburg) can be--and the tools to help get there.</div>
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Main Street is volunteer driven. It is not big government. </div>
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I believe in the power of dedicated volunteers. I believe that shared vision is an essential part of creating not only a great downtown, but a great community. I believe that we can be more than we currently are.</div>
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Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-54682680401033754932012-04-30T09:36:00.003-04:002012-04-30T09:36:59.912-04:00You may be a hoarder.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Id4H-ZSGOwG6cLH9ycuTW9oBqC4sufy6x1WssNYB9qoc4xIZ_IcaG6jwfpJFOyb8-wTKaRe3r8NcCnK5z0hTblyTe2CrammGxo3qMzvjPbp5cP4nZ5nsBZVwahHYHP3Uzyg4JJDUE7D4/s1600/business-cards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Id4H-ZSGOwG6cLH9ycuTW9oBqC4sufy6x1WssNYB9qoc4xIZ_IcaG6jwfpJFOyb8-wTKaRe3r8NcCnK5z0hTblyTe2CrammGxo3qMzvjPbp5cP4nZ5nsBZVwahHYHP3Uzyg4JJDUE7D4/s320/business-cards.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Are you a hoarder?</b><br />
Between reality TV shows, articles in magazines, newspaper headlines about the latest cat lady--one would think that there is an epidemic of hoarding behavior in our country.<br />
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<b>So . . . are YOU a hoarder? Let's take a quick quiz to find out.</b><br />
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<b>1. At networking events do you collect business cards?</b><br />
<b>If you answered YES</b><br />
Surely you know that collecting things without thinking about the <b>purpose</b> and <b>usefulness </b>of the item can be an early sign of hoarding.<br />
<b>If you answered NO</b><br />
Why are you going to networking events? When you leave a networking event without any cards, either you already knew everybody in the room or you were just there for the coffee. And I ask you--is that effective networking?<br />
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<b>2. If you are collecting business cards--the key is what you do with the cards, are they in a drawer or box on your desk? </b><br />
<b>If you answered YES</b><br />
Not only do you need to worry about hoarding behavior, I would like to point out that these business cards become <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schr%C3%B6dinger's_cat">Schrodinger's Cat.</a> When you open the box--maybe there's business in there or maybe the business is dead. <br />
In any case--the point is . . . well . . what IS the point. So you have a nice collection of business cards. Are you expecting them to go out and do business for you?<br />
<b>If you answered NO</b><br />
I'm intrigued . . . what are you doing with your cards?<br />
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<b>3. Do you scan all of them into your database?</b><br />
<b>If you answered YES</b><br />
Are you also making quick notes of how you met the person, or their business, to trigger your memory? And are you throwing the cards out (or recycling) when you're done? Or better yet--are you selecting a few key cards and passing them on to your network?<br />
<b>If you answered NO</b><br />
Okay, seriously, I'm intrigued--WHAT are you doing with your cards?<br />
Do you display your business cards as part of a collection--bragging about your latest acquisitions? I'll grant you, some business cards ARE very creative.<br />
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<b>Business cards can be the mulch that help you grow your business.</b> But NOT if you're storing the mulch in your office and not cultivating anything with them.<br />
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You're a hoarder if your piles of business cards are negatively affecting your quality of life. <br />
You're an ineffective networker if all you have are a handful of cards from people you don't know.<br />
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<b>Be an amazing networking and stifle the hoarding instinct.</b><br />
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Use the networking events <b>to get to know people.</b><br />
Use business cards to quickly gather contact information that you follow up on. Put the information in your data base within 48 hours of a networking event. If you don't do it right away--you will forget who the people are behind the cards.<br />
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Connect with your contacts on Linked In. Check out their Facebook page.<br />
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Spend time thinking about how you can help THEM--and not just about how they can help you.<br />
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These are the keys to growing your business AND keeping the clutter out of your office.Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-77515590768387156302012-04-18T14:42:00.000-04:002012-04-18T14:42:48.237-04:00Insider Tips for getting the most out of your Chamber membership<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht9FbqxFflHVRxIn6bVM1pZbeGULvVvkzSPIZUsQ9Ae8JXW2HD_yqRGvW3d-f60s8Rkje2-6d9iC2vEBraFlY_6p9djLIwk6s5343xvetD6-Y5roaAI7A3MZtb0QZmVbCf7Ab8j19TEorL/s1600/FRI+Fast+Facts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht9FbqxFflHVRxIn6bVM1pZbeGULvVvkzSPIZUsQ9Ae8JXW2HD_yqRGvW3d-f60s8Rkje2-6d9iC2vEBraFlY_6p9djLIwk6s5343xvetD6-Y5roaAI7A3MZtb0QZmVbCf7Ab8j19TEorL/s640/FRI+Fast+Facts.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>At a recent event, we asked Chamber members to give us their "Insider Tips" for getting the most value out of their Chamber membership. Here's what they said.</b></div>
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"Attend as many events and activities as possible. People need to get to know you, like you and trust you before doing business with you or better yet--sending you referrals."</div>
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<b>Donna Bullard, Clarkston Brandon Community Credit Union.</b></div>
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"We're all here hoping to share and learn from one another. It's amazing how quickly you make new friends with a common goal."</div>
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<b>Denise Poniatowski, Divine Nutrition</b></div>
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"The more you get involved with the Chamber, the more benefits you will receive."</div>
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<b>Ron DeLorme, Manage Max Performance Improvement</b></div>
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"Be patient. Attend, watch and learn from others."</div>
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<b>Nathan Sealy, Brass Ring Wealth Management</b></div>
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"Watch for visits from Teri Robinson, Membership consultant at the Chamber. Her smiling face and current info on what's happening in the Chamber are great!"</div>
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<b>Kimberly Dunahay, Divine Nutrition</b></div>
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"It's not just business you find at Chamber events. We found Katie Marietta (Fitness and Aquatics Director) at the Taste of Clarkston!"</div>
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<b>Tammie White, Deer Lake Athletic Club</b></div>
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"Use the membership list to make contact and introduce yourself. Find out who handles decisions on your product/services and get connected with them."</div>
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<b>Patty Gelsomino, Toshiba Business Services</b></div>
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<b>and from the Chamber staff we have these additional tips:</b></div>
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Attend a Member Orientation meeting (held every 4-6 weeks). You'll learn what programs, services and values you can access immediately to jump start your involvement in the Chamber.</div>
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Don't try to do it all. Be strategic and selective about when and where you can participate in Chamber events, programs and projects.</div>
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Use your membership. Like a gym membership, if you don't use it--you don't see the results. </div>
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Involvement can mean reading your Advertising Advantage, checking out the website, following the Chamber on Twitter or Facebook, connecting on Linked in. It's not just attending BOBs, Mixers and Women in Business events.</div>
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Write your business goals down. Then think about why you joined the Chamber, what the Chamber can offer and what you can participate in. Write down your goals for your Chamber membership and three things you will do in the next 30 days to help achieve those goals. Make an appointment with yourself to review these goals and actions in 30 days--find out what works for you and do more of it.</div>
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Visit the website--you'll find lots of information on what's happening, business resources, information about other members.</div>
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Send information, press releases, photos, announcements to Penny@clarkston.org. She will help promote you through the website, eBlasts and social media outlets.</div>
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<br />Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-40544675249182045502012-04-09T05:00:00.000-04:002012-04-09T05:00:06.518-04:00Time Saving Tips from our Members<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUIQVSmlz7h6Asjyduv8mviKWKqd4upC2NLefR6vSPLB6z1-S2dCnlc0brbmMFp6GxxTpU4mr7PXekxUxEDk7x8uOXaqnJ0AybNV4mielEams4kcH51_l1DG7I0MoZDeRb5dDVNAHkeYN/s1600/time_money.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUIQVSmlz7h6Asjyduv8mviKWKqd4upC2NLefR6vSPLB6z1-S2dCnlc0brbmMFp6GxxTpU4mr7PXekxUxEDk7x8uOXaqnJ0AybNV4mielEams4kcH51_l1DG7I0MoZDeRb5dDVNAHkeYN/s1600/time_money.jpg" /></a></div>
"Combine your place for fitness and entertainment. Find a third place. Home, work and add a place for the whole family."<br />
<i><b>Katie Marietta,</b> Deer Lake Athletic Club</i><br />
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"Pick 6 activities that you want to do during the day. Prioritize them, then start on the 1st one."<br />
<i><b>Nick Hamp</b>, Total Benefits System Inc.</i><br />
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"Instead of making breakfast or lunch, stop in and have us provide you with a quick delicious healthy "meal" smoothie."<br />
<i><b>Kimberly Dunahay,</b> Divine Nutrition</i><br />
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"Return calls while on the road (Hands free Blue Tooth only.)"<br />
<i><b>Nathan Sealey, </b>Brass Ring Wealth Management</i><br />
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"Always have a plan for your day. When you have your own business it's easy to get caught up in time wasters. Make a plan and stick to it!"<br />
<i><b>Denise Poniatowski,</b> Divine Nutrition</i><br />
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<b>And here are some tips from the Chamber Staff</b><br />
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Sign up for auto-bill with the Chamber. If you regularly attend BOBs, Mixers or WIB events, we can have you pre-registered for all these events. You'll get a reminder email for the event so you can confirm you're still planning to attend. If necessary, you can cancel that registration at that time, without penalty. It's a great way to make sure we've saved you a seat at our events.<br />
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Eat that Frog. <a href="http://www.eatthatfrogmovie.com/">http://www.eatthatfrogmovie.com/</a><br />
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Set goals weekly. Assess them at the end of each week. Evaluate what obstacles kept you from meeting your goals and what opportunities helped you reach your goals faster.<br />
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Be realistic about how much time it takes to do something.<br />
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Don't check your email every minute. Set times at the top or bottom of the hour--or at a set point in the morning or afternoon--and then walk away from the inbox. Don't let an incoming email of low urgency jump the queue for important things you have to do today.Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-42658858719042876072012-04-02T06:00:00.000-04:002012-04-02T06:00:11.874-04:00The Best Advice a Mentor Gave You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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At a recent Chamber event, we asked our members to share with us, the best advice a mentor every gave them.<br />
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"Lead by example. Your staff with follow you."<br />
<i><b>Donna Clancy,</b> Clarkston SCAMP</i><br />
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"It takes 21 days for something to become a habit."<br />
<i><b>Patty Gelsomino, </b>Toshiba</i><br />
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"Never come back from a request empty handed."<br />
<i><b>Nathan Sealey, </b>Brass Ring Wealth Management</i><br />
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"There are 3 things you need to do: See the people, See the people, See the people!"<br />
<i><b>Nick Hamp,</b> Total Benefit Systems, Inc.</i><br />
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"When you have confidence in your employees capabilities you will seldom be disappointed."<br />
<i><b>Donna Bullard, </b>Clarkston Brandon Community Credit Union</i><br />
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"What' easy to do is just as easy not to do."<br />
<i><b>Denise Poniatowski,</b> Divine Nutrition</i><br />
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<b>The Chamber staff had some additional tips:</b><br />
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"Don't post anything on Facebook that you wouldn't want your mom to see, because chances are, your mom's on Facebook too."<br />
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"Pay it forward."<br />
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"When setting goals, always include one that's a bit of a stretch--something you have only a 1 in 10 chance of achieving. You never know what you can do until you stretch."<br />
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"Change is uncomfortable. Lean into the discomfort--it means you're growing and learning."<br />
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"When listening to an unhappy customer--Remember to W.A.I.T. Which means Why Am I Talking? If you're listening . . . you're not talking."<br />
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<i><br /></i>Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-46081135104210614812012-03-26T10:51:00.001-04:002012-03-26T12:02:50.412-04:00Insider Tips for the Clarkston Area<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>At a recent event, we asked Chamber members to share their insider tips for the Clarkston area.</b><br />
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"Use Pine Knob Road to get to DTE Energy Music Theatre."<br />
<i><b>Nathan Sealey, </b>Brass Ring Wealth Management</i><br />
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"Check out the Back Court restaurant at Deer Lake Athletic Club. It's open to the public and has great food!"<br />
<i><b>Tammie White, </b>Deer Lake Banquet Center</i><br />
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"It's a small community. Everybody knows everybody!"<br />
<i><b>Jason Ryan,</b> Groupon</i><br />
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"When you network with good people, your business grows."<br />
<i><b>Denise Poniatowski,</b> Divine Nutrition</i><br />
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<b>Chamber Staff have a few recommendations too:</b><br />
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Downtown is very walkable. It's the perfect after work or weekend route for meeting friends, taking the dog for a walk or exploring with your kids.<br />
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If you want a good seat at Concerts in the Park, come early (by 6:00). As an added bonus, you get to hear the local talent pre-show.<br />
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The biggest parade on Main Street with the July 4th parade. If you want a seat on the curb in the downtown area, you'll need to stake out your spot by 8:30. However, you can find great spots at the start of end of the parade route up until the start time of the parade (10 am).<br />
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Look around. Hidden gems like Via Bologna are tucked away--but they are well worth hunting out.<br />
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We love to dine outside. Now that the weather is nice, we look forward to eating outside. Check out Mr. B's Roadhouse, Mesquite Creek, Clarkston Union, Union Woodshop, Dairy Queen, Via Bologna and more!<br />
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The Clarkston Historical Museum is located at the Independence Township Library. Beautiful visual displays change on a regular basis. It's well worth a stop by while you're checking out the latest audio book collections or DVDs.<br />
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The Spraypark at Clintonwood Park is a great place to take the kids. <br />
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We have a LOT of recreational options in the Clarkston area. Between beaches, golf courses, the ski hill, cross country skiing, hiking, fishing, fitness trails and bike paths--our area also hosts a variety of fitness race events, 5Ks, fun runs and walk-a-thons.<br />
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Go ahead . . . show off! Invite your friends and family to come see Clarkston. Show off your own "insider tips" as you give them a tour. We have lots to offer!<br />
<br />Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-53969624407856537152012-03-13T02:05:00.000-04:002012-03-13T02:05:00.188-04:00Finding and Keeping Quality Employees--tips from our members<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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At a recent Business over Breakfast, we asked our members to share tips on how to find and keep quality employees. Here's what they said:</div>
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"Compensation. Incentives. Benefits. Encouragement."</div>
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<i><b>--Joy Vander Weel, All Saints Cemetery</b></i></div>
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"Make employee feel appreciated. Offer sales incentives. Thank them often. Give encouragement. Great benefits include: health, 401k match, excellent vacation time. Genisys Credit Union is Hiring! Full and part time. Apply online at www.genisyscu.org."</div>
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<i><b>--Hollie Sayles, Genisys Credit Union</b></i></div>
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"The greatest way to attract and keep employees is how you treat them."</div>
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<i><b>--Ron DeLorme, Manage Max Performance Improvement</b></i></div>
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"Involve the employees in the decision making."</div>
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<i><b>--Carol Peters, Lafontaine Automotive Group</b></i></div>
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"Offer incentives like tuition reimbursement."</div>
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<i><b>--Fred Ritter, Clarkston Autowash Co.</b></i></div>
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"Feed them."</div>
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<b><i>--Chris Collins, Planet Kids Premier Academy</i></b></div>
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"Use 4 hour working interviews and ask staff opinions."</div>
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<i><b>--Dr. Bryan Cornwall, Advanced Petcare of Oakland</b></i></div>
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"Invest in them! Spend time getting to know their dreams. Love them (in the right way)."</div>
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<i><b>--Janet Tait, Wellness Enhancement LLC</b></i></div>
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"Work for your wife. Divorce is expensive."</div>
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<i><b>--David Jackson, Ideas for You</b></i></div>
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"Define jobs specifically. Recruit widely. design interview questions to reveal job skills. Do not SETTLE for warm body! Lots of talent available in Michigan."</div>
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<i><b>--Ron DeLorme, Manage Max Performance Improvement</b></i></div>
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"Casual Friday."</div>
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<i><b>--Fritz Jackson, Ideas for You</b></i></div>
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<br />Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-26012286844616874872012-03-06T08:00:00.000-05:002012-03-06T08:00:10.504-05:00Social Media Tips--What's working for our members<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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At a recent BOB, we asked our Chamber members, "What's working for you with Social Media?"</div>
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TWITTER</div>
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"Keep tweets limited to 120 characters so others can retweet. (RT)"</div>
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<i><b>Jason T. Ryan, Vision Fuel Media</b></i></div>
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"Facebook is working! I spend 10 minutes a day. I respond to other's posts. One in 20 of my posts is about my business, the rest is about my life."</div>
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<i><b>Laura Jasurda, Rodan and Fields</b></i></div>
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LINKED IN</div>
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"I'm a fan. Linked in helps you think strategically about your contacts. You can use it to send a thank you for connecting--it leads to conversations."</div>
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<i><b>Larry Ribits, Keaton Publications</b></i></div>
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CONSTANT CONTACT</div>
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"I use Constant Contact--it helps me stay in touch and in front of customers and clients, even in the busy times."</div>
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<i><b>Tom Lowrie, Lowrie's Landscape</b></i></div>
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WEBSITE</div>
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"Having information about our natural burial area <i><b>The Preserve</b></i>, is bringing great interest to our website."</div>
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<i><b>Russ Burns, All Saints Cemetery</b></i></div>
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CROSS LINK<br />
Cross links from Twitter to Facebook to Linked in etc and to your website will help you come up higher in Google and other search engines."<br />
<i><b>Tom Kiihr, Signs Now Waterford</b></i><br />
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<b><i>From the Chamber staff</i></b><br />
There are a lot of online social media marketing outlets and tools out there<br />
Invest a little time learning about what each has to offer<br />
Go to where your target audience (and prospective audience) spends their time<br />
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TWITTER, the Chamber utilizes Social Oomph to pre-schedule tweets.<br />
Look for content that's easy and interesting to tweet for these pre-scheduled tweets.<br />
We use motivational and inspiration quotes<br />
DTE Energy music theater concert announcements<br />
Local blood drives and community events and activities.<br />
Along with general Chamber information, trivia and tips.<br />
We also use Tweetdeck to "listen". We've set up columns to capture keywords and phrases of interest to our community. When people tweet about Clarkston--we want to hear what they're saying.<br />
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CROSS LINK We've connected Twitter and Linked In to our Facebook page. When we post once--it shows up on all 3 Social media outlets.<br />
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FACEBOOK--photos and weblinks grab the eye and engage the audience.<br />
Asking questions--even simple ones like "What's your favorite flavor ice cream" can engage the readers. Let them tell you what they like.<br />
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<b>What else is out there? </b><br />
Have videos of your business, events, activities, products, testimonials and staff? Upload them to YouTube and link to them from Facebook and Twitter<br />
Have photos of your business, events, activities, products and staff? Use Flickr to post them online. <br />
Sign up for Pinterest and learn how to "pin" photos to your public bulletin boards. You'll find out what people respond to when they Like or Repin your photos and videos.<br />
If you've posted photos or videos on your website, Flickr or YouTube, you can PIN them to your Pinterest boards. (Facebook photos and videos don't pin . . .yet)<br />
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If you have a retail business, you might want to investigate FOURSQUARE. This social media, location based smart phone app encourages users to announce where they are by "checking in" with their phone. Retailers and restaurants can capitalize on this by finding out who visits them on a regular basis. You can also encourage users who are nearby to come on in and check your business out, by posting a special offer on FOURSQUARE. When a user is in the area, their phone will tell them what special offers are nearby.<br />
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There's a lot of social media tools that are out there--free of charge--but needing an investment of your time to learn and keep current your online presence.<br />
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There are also a lot of tools out there for additional charges (many of these are nominal annual fees) to upgrade your accounts, give you access to more features or even monitor and manage your online presence for you.<br />
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<br />Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-58774410259186470042012-02-27T09:00:00.000-05:002012-02-27T09:00:13.673-05:00Best Marketing TipsAt a recent BOB, we asked our members to share tips, ideas and strategies for marketing.<br />
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"A millionaire once told me--To be a success you need to talk to 15 people per day. Track how many people you talk to each day."<br />
<b>Laura Jasurda, Rodan and Fields</b><br />
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"Take advantage of being feature on Groupon. Exposure to 700,000 people in SE Michigan and no out of pocket cost."<br />
<i><b>Jason T. Ryan, Groupon</b></i><br />
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"Run a Testimonial Ad in the local paper. People always like to know what your customers think."<br />
<i><b>Russ Burns, All Saints Cemetery</b></i><br />
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"Advertise in the local paper."<br />
<i><b>Jill Dixon, Heather Pines</b></i><br />
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"Track where your leads come from. Give and get referrals."<br />
<i><b>Lenny Dicks, MAACO</b></i><br />
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"Join local networking groups and form relationships."<br />
<i><b>Jason T. Ryan, Vision Fuel Media</b></i><br />
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"Get referrals from your existing customers, on their business letterhead. If necessary, offer them a sample letter to show them what you're looking for."<br />
<i><b>Don Souden, Coffee Break Service</b></i><br />
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"Develop strategic referral partnerships."<br />
<i><b>Larry Ribits, Keaton Publishing</b></i><br />
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"Follow up! The fortune is in the follow up. Read <b><i>No More Cold Calling </i></b>by Joanne Black."<br />
<i><b>Nick Shone, Legal Sheild</b></i><br />
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"Attend ribbon cuttings, grand openings and open houses."<br />
<i><b>Ginny Hechinger, Costco</b></i><br />
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"Pass out promotional items with your company name, logo, slogan or branding."<br />
<i><b>Fritz and David Jackson, Ideas for You</b></i><br />
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From the Chamber we add the following tips:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Know who your target audience is and where to find them</li>
<li>Partner with other chamber members who have a similar customer base to give referrals back and forth</li>
<li>Ask questions of the advertising representatives for newspapers, mailers, radio and TV--advertising may be more affordable than you realize.</li>
<li>Running 1 ad isn't going to do much--be consistent. Build your marketing plan so it sustains consistent and multi-platform (Social Media, Print advertising etc.) based.</li>
<li>Consider participating in service clubs and volunteer organizations. You'll build friendships and camaraderie, but you're also building your personal and company brand. People do business with people they know, like and trust.</li>
<li>Show up. Attending a Business Over Breakfast is an easy way to meet new people and grow existing relationships.</li>
<li>Sit with somebody new at lunch. If you always talk to the same people, you will get the same information. Reach out and meet someone new.</li>
<li>Sponsoring an event like Women in Business, allows you the opportunity for a table display and presentation time in front of the group.</li>
<li>Co-brand with excellence. Sponsoring an event like Concerts in the Park or Taste of Clarkston, gets your name in front of a lot of local eyeballs--while being aligned with well-loved, smooth running events.</li>
<li>Put your flyer in Advertising Advantage, the Chamber's direct mailing to 1000 area business. ($150 per month)</li>
<li>Take advantage of Independence Township library business resources and databases.</li>
<li>Remember that excellent customer service at every touchpoint is fabulous marketing that will keep you in front of return customers and clients!</li>
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We've told you a few of ours, now share with us some of your best marketing tips, ideas and secrets!</div>
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<br />Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-10725444752371608372012-02-20T12:39:00.001-05:002012-02-20T12:39:12.390-05:00Tips for Saving MoneyAt a recent BOB, we asked attendees to share with us their ideas, tips and secrets.<br />
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"Pay yourself first. Set aside 10-20% in savings and don't touch it!"<br />
<i>--Laura Jasurda, Rodan and Fields</i><br />
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"Review every contract and vendor annually."<br />
<i>--Donna Bullard, Clarkston Brandon Community Credit Union</i><br />
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" Don't print unless absolutely necessary. You'd be surprised how this small thing adds up."<br />
<i>--Holly Sayles, Genisys Credit Union</i><br />
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"Switch to CFL light bulbs."<br />
<i>--Joanne Kent, Batteries Plus</i><br />
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"Take advantage of FREE interns through Michigan Works, Oakland University, Baker College and more!"<br />
<i>--Jason T. Ryan, Vision Fuel Media and Groupon</i><br />
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"Create a budget and stick to it."<br />
<i>--Carol Peters, LaFontaine Automotive Group</i><br />
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"Take advantage of discount savings through your company."<br />
<i>--Liza Shone, Legal Shield</i><br />
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"Track your spending. Manage your facilities maintenance and equipment carefully."<br />
<i>--Russ Burns, All Saints Cemetery</i><br />
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From the Chamber's side, I know of a few more tips that you want to keep in mind. <br />
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<ul>
<li>Be a member. Members save money on most event registrations. </li>
<li>Check with your tax advisor. Chamber membership dues may be a business deduction</li>
<li>Utilize early bird sign ups. You'll save $5 on BOBs and Mixer registrations and $25-$50 on Golf, Business Bootcamps and EXPO registrations.</li>
<li>Get and use your free Office Depot discount card.</li>
<li>Price our your health insurance options utilizing Mi-Benefits.com.</li>
<li>Participate in Advertising Advantage and reach 1,000 area businesses for just $150</li>
<li>Use Chamber members--and check the chamber's website directory at www.clarkston.org to see if they offer a chamber member to member discount.</li>
<li>Check out Chamber programs with Comcast Business Services</li>
<li>Sign up for a year's advertising on the Chamber page with the Clarkston News and get a FREE Advertising Advantage</li>
</ul>
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These are just a few of the ideas and tips our members shared with us. Do you know of other good ways to save money? Tell us!</div>
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<br />Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-72439348258083410162012-02-14T16:27:00.002-05:002012-02-15T09:52:00.776-05:00Networking tips from the Ultimate Networker--NPR interview<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This morning, like most mornings, I turn on the radio and listen to NPR while I have my coffee, check emails and start the debate about when I NEED to get my running shoes on and still have time for a shower before heading to work. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Today's broadcast included an interview with <span style="line-height: 15px;">Reid Hoffman is the co-founder and executive chairman of the professional networking website LinkedIn.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">Don't sit with the same people at lunch all the time. <i><span style="color: blue;">(Good point! That's why we do reserve seating at our mixers. So you have the opportunity to meet new people and connect.)</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">Get out of your comfort zone and connect with another department, another business, another vendor, supplier or customer. <span style="color: blue;"><i>(Not everyone you meet at a mixer is your ideal customer, client or referral partner--but they are someone who could have valuable experiences, ideas and knowledge that can help you.)</i></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">Find out what's going on in their lives. What are they look for right now? What do they see as a trend, challenge, opportunity or obstacle? <i><span style="color: blue;">(How often do we get stuck looking through our own microscope? So familiar with our own jobs, territories, responsibilities and routines, that we miss the chance to put together a bigger picture.)</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 15px;"><b>Be curious about other people's jobs, experiences, ideas.</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">The entire interview had more great tips from the ultimate networker--you can check it out here:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://www.npr.org/2012/02/14/146811474/networking-tips-from-the-ultimate-networker">http://www.npr.org/2012/02/14/146811474/networking-tips-from-the-ultimate-networker</a>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">About that time, the clock dinged and I could procrastinate no longer. Time to hit the treadmill. The 3 miles went quickly as I thought about the interview and considered how it applies to me--my job--and the Chamber.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">There is a wealth of information and opportunity in our community. The Chamber helps businesses get connected and stay connected. But how can we do it better?</span><br />
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<br />Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-38935392707378127532012-02-06T15:26:00.004-05:002012-02-06T15:28:27.266-05:00Send all the Right Messages<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Networking doesn't suck. Desperation does.</span></b></div>
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<i>--Shawne Duperon, Top 20 Networking Nuggets</i></div>
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This month, Clarkston Area Chamber is offering a business bootcamp that can help you get your elevator speech (and more) into shape. Don't dread networking for another day!<br />
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<span style="color: #1c4c2a; font-family: 'Arial Black'; font-size: 28pt;">Send all the Right Messages</span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 20pt; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Elevator Speeches and more<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 14pt;">Communication is about </span><span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 14pt; font-weight: bold;">what </span><span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 14pt;">you say and </span><span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 14pt; font-weight: bold;">how </span><span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 14pt;">you say it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-style: italic;">2 hour interactive boot camp/workshop <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 14pt; font-weight: bold;">Does your Business Elevator Speech make a great 1</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 9.3239pt; font-weight: bold;"><sup>st</sup></span><span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 14pt; font-weight: bold;"> impression?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 14pt; font-weight: bold;">What “messages” are you really sending to prospects and customers when Networking, Selling or providing Service? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="color: #1c4c2a; font-family: 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 20pt; font-weight: bold;">Attend this fun and interactive boot camp and </span><span lang="en-US" style="color: #1c4c2a; font-family: 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 20pt; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">make sure</span><span lang="en-US" style="color: #1c4c2a; font-family: 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 20pt; font-weight: bold;"> that your ELEVATOR SPEECH is Sending All the Right Messages!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 14pt; font-weight: bold;">Bring some friends and make the most of this great opportunity</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 14pt; font-weight: bold;">! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow';">Space is limited</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 8pt; font-weight: bold;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Black'; font-size: 20pt;">Wednesday </span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Black'; font-size: 20pt;">February 29 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Black';"> </span><span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;">Colombiere Conference Center<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;">9075 Big Lake Rd.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;">Clarkston, MI 48346<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-style: italic;">Coffee & continental breakfast provided</span><span lang="en-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="color: #1c4c2a; font-family: 'Arial Black';">REGISTRATION</span><span lang="en-US" style="color: #1c4c2a; font-weight: bold;">: </span><span lang="en-US" style="color: #1c4c2a; font-family: 'Arial Black';">$49 </span><span lang="en-US" style="color: #1c4c2a; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Chamber member early bird rate <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow';">$89/per person non-members and at the door registrations<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">PRESENTER:</span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 14pt; font-weight: bold;">Ron DeLorme</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 14pt; font-weight: bold;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Manage Max </span><span lang="en-US" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Performance</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"> Improvement</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 14pt; font-weight: bold;">Program Goals</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow'; font-size: 14pt; font-weight: bold;">:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="direction: ltr; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt; unicode-bidi: embed;">·</span><span style="width: 13.5pt;"> </span><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow';">Focus on </span><span lang="en-US" style="color: #1c4c2a; font-family: 'Arial Narrow'; font-weight: bold;">YOUR Elevator Speech </span><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow';">and </span><span lang="en-US" style="color: #1c4c2a; font-family: 'Arial Narrow'; font-weight: bold;">YOUR needs</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow';">! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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This event is co-hosted by 5 Chambers of Commerce in North Oakland County:</div>
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Clarkston, Orion, Auburn Hills, Ortonville and Oxford.</div>
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<br />Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-6628534699528162892012-01-30T06:01:00.000-05:002012-01-30T08:18:21.641-05:00Networking, Expectations, Goofus and GallantRecently a chamber member brought a concern to my attention.<br />
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This person is what I would refer to as a "<span style="font-weight: bold;">Great Networker</span>."
They noted that there are people out there that think just because
you've been introduced and exchanged business cards that you're now
obligated to purchase their services or send a referral. The member with
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Great Expectations</span> may (or more likely may not) have done the same as they're expecting, but the expectation is there.<br />
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Now
stop and think about this for a minute. Is everyone you meet a
prospective customer or client? Is it possible to give business to
everyone you meet for the first time WHEN you meet them for the first
time? (We have nearly 600 members in our Chamber alone--and many of our
members belong to multiple networking groups.)<br />
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Yes, networking can pay off with valuable referrals--but there's a difference between being a <span style="font-weight: bold;">Great Networker</span> and getting those referrals and being a "<span style="font-weight: bold;">Great Expectations</span>" kind of networker. Which one are you?<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Great Networker</span><br />
People do business with people they know.<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Great Expectations</span><br />
I gave you my business card--so now we know each other--give me business.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Great Networker</span><br />
People do business with people they like and trust.<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Great Expectations</span><br />
I'll like you better when you give me business.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Great Networker</span><br />
Relationships are about the lifetime value of a connection--not a flash in the pan.<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Great Expectations</span><br />
If you're not giving me business--there's no lifetime value.<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Great Networker</span><br />
It's
not just the person I'm meeting and getting to know--it's about all of
their connections too. Maybe you aren't a good prospect for my goods or
services--but I'll bet you know someone who is. I treat our relationship
with respect and care--it's an example of how I treat customers and
clients. So even if you don't use my services or products--you know I
have high integrity and value. Hopefully that makes it easy for you to
think of me when a referral opportunity crops up.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Great Expectations</span><br />
I'll give you some more business cards you can give your friends.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Great Networker</span><br />
I ask questions about your business, learning more about you, your goals, how things are going.<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Great Expectations</span><br />
Why
are you asking me all of these questions about my business? If you're
not a potential customer or client, stop wasting my time.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Great Networker</span><br />
After learning about your business, I often am asked similar questions about my own business.<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Great Expecations</span><br />
Well I told you all about my business--time to move on.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkeYIQC5MqZmZi_-qk9TBbknFG8s4JgI1F5rh57Xzj9_LFZAadiFTZ3TvmIAIWKTUi5BEm_v4t0kaFh9vzoFanjYIABTPGjTJd4FttrAZ6JRs4w8znpPwsV3BirG3DOCR50ZHLBqtp2r9/s1600/goofusgallant_oct1980_hrsm.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566206704921224354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkeYIQC5MqZmZi_-qk9TBbknFG8s4JgI1F5rh57Xzj9_LFZAadiFTZ3TvmIAIWKTUi5BEm_v4t0kaFh9vzoFanjYIABTPGjTJd4FttrAZ6JRs4w8znpPwsV3BirG3DOCR50ZHLBqtp2r9/s400/goofusgallant_oct1980_hrsm.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 321px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 400px;" /></a>Rereading this before posting, I am reminded of the old Highlights Magazine cartoon strip <span style="font-weight: bold;">"Goofus and Gallant." </span><span style="font-style: italic;">Yes, I'm a baby boomer--this was long before the days of Dilbert or Calvin & Hobbs.</span><br />
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Basically these are classic themes about having good manners. I strongly urge you to NOT be a Goofus.Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-70612356255876682482012-01-24T05:57:00.003-05:002012-01-24T05:57:59.368-05:00Women in Business series 2012 begins today!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Women in Business series 2012 begins today!</b></span><br />
One of the things that gets us through the winter months is the 4 part Women in Business series. Once a month, January through April, Clarkston Area Chamber hosts a WiB (Women in Business) event.<br />
These events are designed for women business leaders, but are open to everyone--you don't have to be a business leader, chamber member, or female to attend these events.<br />
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What exactly do we mean by "Designed for Women Business leaders?"<br />
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Our topics and speakers are motivational, inspirational--presenting 45 minute keynote addresses of high quality information and energy. <br />
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WiB events include extra time for networking and relationship building. I've observed over the years that when you put Clarkston's women business leaders together at a networking event, they prefer time to build friendships and advisory partners that lead to strategic referral partnerships. They don't like to be rushed.<br />
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They DO like for events to start on time and end on time. They enjoy surprises and are game to participate in activities. <br />
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All that in mind--I know that today's event with Terry Bean and his presentation <i><b>6 Degrees of Connectedness</b></i> will be rewarding, enriching--and fun!<br />
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<br />Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-6202483554155426302012-01-17T10:43:00.000-05:002012-01-17T10:43:21.012-05:00<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Get Connected and Stay Connected</b></span><br />
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This month, the Chamber will host a member orientation on Wednesday January 25, 2012 9-10 a.m. at the Chamber office.</div>
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We've been holding these events every other month for almost three years. They've been targeted for our newest members to help them jump start their participation in the Chamber value offerings.</div>
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We cover the basics:</div>
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Where do you go for information and updates?</div>
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How can you promote your business within the Chamber network?</div>
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What are the best fit for marketing opportunities within the Chamber?</div>
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What kind of savings and discounts are available for Chamber members?</div>
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We also bring in a member from the Ambassadors and the Board of Directors to share their experiences on what's worked for them, what tips they suggest for getting the most out of your membership and more.</div>
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Beginning in 2012, we are now publicizing these orientation dates and opening them up to all Chamber members. We only ask that you RSVP so we are sure to have enough materials printed and on hand for the meeting.</div>
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If you're not sure what's new, what's the best fit, or how to ramp up the value you're getting from your Chamber membership, then plan to attend an orientation. </div>
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WEDS January 25, 2012 9-10 a.m. at the Chamber</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-17100500181641767552012-01-10T11:21:00.001-05:002012-01-10T11:21:07.311-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In a short while, the Chamber Ambassadors will descend upon the Chamber office. There will be laughter and loud voices--but more than that, there will be a wave of positive energy and excitement. It's like a high tide of opportunity and "can-do!" that fills the office.<br />
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Our Ambassadors serve as volunteers. They do what they do, because they LOVE it! Each year, it's hard to believe, but the pool of Ambassadors gets better and better and better.<br />
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While an Ambassadors act as hosts as events, greet new members and facilitate networking--what they really do (and do so very well) is set the "temperature."<br />
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Are you comfortable?<br />
Do you feel welcomed?<br />
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Thank the Ambassadors.<br />
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Are you able to talk, as well as listen while you network? Do you find that Chamber members you meet touch base, talk with you, send referrals in an ongoing fashion? <br />
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Thank the Ambassadors.<br />
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Do you laugh, have fun and look forward to Chamber events?<br />
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Thank the Ambassadors!<br />
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Our Chamber Networking Brand is well known, positive and copied by many surrounding groups. It's that good, because our Ambassadors are that good!<br />
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Thank you Ambassadors! You totally Rock!<br />
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<br />Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-38835581715449600172012-01-03T09:04:00.003-05:002012-01-03T10:21:05.134-05:00What do you resolve to do?<p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK-iSo06eiQN4gtPQxKsj4_3A8go11W6egsh8iGS8p-FIIunSRt4IwbvlU1uSsvZhlG3t1xsqYJUMEcKu_s_gVJv-NXsXWQEukuqu95WlxvM0v0MCORj2xumjqW8wbpCBMkUe4pep_8uGI/s1600/2012+Happy+new+Year.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693406967256333138" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 245px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK-iSo06eiQN4gtPQxKsj4_3A8go11W6egsh8iGS8p-FIIunSRt4IwbvlU1uSsvZhlG3t1xsqYJUMEcKu_s_gVJv-NXsXWQEukuqu95WlxvM0v0MCORj2xumjqW8wbpCBMkUe4pep_8uGI/s400/2012+Happy+new+Year.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Happy New Year!</span></strong><br /><br />Yes, I am one of those people who enjoy looking at January 1 as a lightswitch opportunity. I'm full of hope, anticipation and ambition as I approach the fresh new calendar pages.<br /><br />This is an opportunity to assess, align and repurpose yourself to be the best you can be.<br /><br />This year, you will have the opportunity to take advantage of some of the great talent in our area. The Chamber is deploying our secret weapon--YOU!<br /><br /><strong>Sharpen the Saw</strong><br />Stephen Covey talks about Shapening the Saw (you'll cut down trees faster if you take time to sharpen your saw)--and we're going to help you. Throughout the year you'll find Business Bootcamps scheduled--beginning with January 11, 2012 with the Microsoft Office 365 Cloud bootcamp.<br /><br />Bootcamps will be held at different times of the day, different days of the week and offer different themes, topics, presenters and price points. While we don't expect members to attend every bootcamp, we do encourage you to attend as many as you can.<br /><br />The skills, tips and connections you'll make at these events will be well worth the investment of your time and dollars.<br /><br /><strong>Get connected and stay connected with your Chamber peers.</strong><br />The best investment to grow your business is finding and aligning with strategic referral partners.<br /><br /><strong>Measure your success</strong><br />Start thinking now about how you'll track and measure your success. How many referrals do you get from other Chamber members? What dollar amount does that bring in for you?<br /><br />And for my part . . . I'm renewing my commitment to keep this blog updated. It's easy to fall back and let time zip by as you race from deadline to deadline. It's IMPORTANT to follow through on what you start.<br /><br />This WILL be a prosperous New Year!Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-36928645240637364762011-06-07T10:20:00.001-04:002011-06-07T10:20:58.515-04:00Marketing Secrets for Silent Auctions and RafflesIt seems everyone has a fundraiser, auction or raffle that they'd like you to donate to. The Chamber too has two silent auctions coming up in the near future<br /><br />Should you or shouldn't you consider donating something to these events?<br /><br />I think you should really consider it. But you don't have to take my word for it.<br />ChamberSmallBusiness.com calls this “Masterful Marketing, when you donate a prize, giveaway or auction item you can generate some low cost exposure and publicity for your company."<br /><br />But before you rush out to donate something--I urge you to do a little strategic analysis.<br /><br />STEP ONE: Who's the target audience for this event?<br /><br />Donating can be a good decision if the audience at the event is your target audience/customer base.<br /><br />Donating can be a good decision if the audience is your strongest pool for referral partners and leads.<br /><br />Donating does not make sense if the audience is completely unrelated to potential leads or customers.<br /><br />STEP TWO: You've decided to donate something, now what will you give?<br />Think about that audience and identify the broadest common denominator.<br /><br />You want the winner of your donation to be thrilled to have won. That means what they bid on or win in the raffle needs to be<br /><br />something they can use immediately<br />something they would be proud to show off to others (all the more marketing mileage when they show off their winnings)<br />something that makes them connect with your business name and helps brand you as a thoughtful, customer oriented business<br />You get extra credit if you can donate something that cannot be purchased or obtained easily--if at all. (One of a kind items are hot commodities at auctions).<br /><br />STEP THREE--Need some ideas?<br />If you're a season ticket holder for sporting or entertainment events, consider donating a set of tickets.<br />How about a week at your vacation condo, cottage or time share?<br />Maybe you have connections to get autographed sports memorabilia<br /><br />Don't waste the opportunity to emphasize one of your services or value propositions. Is your company brand include: Great Customer Service; Easy communications and follow up; timely delivery of services . . . then create a donation that reinforces that message.<br /><br /><br />Tried and true items like a gift certificate for "dinner out" at a local restaurant can be coupled with a bottle of champagne and your gift card that says, "Congratulations! Celebrate your next memorable event with our compliments!" and be sure to add a tag line that matches your business. <br /><br />Insurance companies: "Always here for you when you need us." <br />Financial planners: "We are pleased to help customers and clients have more to celebrate." <br />Mortgage specialists: "We can help you celebrate a new home or renovations."<br />Attorneys: "Good planning leads to more celebrations. We can help."<br />Or consider the ever popular spa or salon gift certificate.<br />"Relax. We're ready to help you lower your stress in other ways too--call us when you'd like more information."<br />"Our customers and clients agree, everyone can use a little pampering."<br /><br />Or maybe you'd like to donate a gift certificate for your company's services.<br />A free hour of consulting, or a free evaluation . . . jazz up your donation by coupling it with a couple of your logo mugs, a pound of gourmet coffee and a sampler of chocolates.<br /><br />Is somebody in your office a good baker? Add two dozen home baked cookies, an apple pie (with small American Flag!), or decadent brownies to your donation. While bidders want your company's services, the homebaked goodies provide instant gratification and urgency for them to BID ON YOUR CERTIFICATE IMMEDIATELY!<br /><br />STEP FOUR--DO NOT FORGET that this is a marketing opportunity! Include your business cards, or a hand written note congratulating the "winner" of your item.<br /><br />Donate your item early so the event hosts can coordinate custom signage that includes your logo<br /><br />STEP FIVE--Be the "stickiest" business at the auction!<br />Marketers agree that it's important to create a brand, image or message that's sticky. (Meaning you stay in the audience's mind long after they've seen your advertisement.)<br />Auction donations and raffle prizes are a great opportunity to develop that sticky message.<br /><br />What can you donate that will intrigue most of the audience? In a silent auction, your goal is to get them to bid! In fact--you want audience members to get in a bidding war for your donation.<br /><br />Taking the extra time to design a dazzling basket display or creative presentation pays off big time when people talk about you AT the event and AFTER the event. Better yet--will people take pictures of your donation and post it on their Facebook pages?<br /><br />Get them talking! With a little creativity, your auction item could be the buzz of the event.Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-71340691639941231082011-03-18T10:18:00.003-04:002011-03-18T10:51:16.083-04:00Two step Technology SlideHave you ever had one of those days--when everything you start moves you one step forward and two steps backwards?<div><br /><div>I will confess right now that part of the issue is technology. We're upgrading to a new server and in the process we will also be implementing 2 replacement work stations. Which means we need to upgrade software . . . which means we have to convert old data files . . .which means those files don't talk to the website anymore . . . which means we need to fix the translation . . . which means . . . .</div><div><br /></div><div>I am learning way more about software and hardware than I truly ever wanted to.</div><div><br /></div><div>On the plus side--this transition has been much easier thanks to the expertise of chamber members. Knowing I have great go-to resources to ask questions, get advice and help implementing has made this so much easier.</div><div><br /></div><div>Jackie Kopp, ATD Solutions is helping us upgrade our Quickbooks software and in the process helping us categorize classes to improve the ease of event program and project reports. She and Steve Hyer, IGD Solutions are helping us coordinate the newest release of Quickbooks with our online registration system. </div><div><br /></div><div>The end result will be very nice for our members and reduce the bookkeeping time required to re-enter registrations. A direct sync with the online payments will save a lot of time!</div><div><br /></div><div>It will also allow us to go to online invoicing and statements--saving postage. And we are looking into ACH processing as an option in addition to credit cards.</div><div><br /></div><div>As part of this upgrade--we're also replacing our server. It's nearly 10 years old and has performed well. Periodic piecemeal upgrades have extended it's life--but it's time is done. It needs to be retired.</div><div><br /></div><div>PC Miracles (who does our off site back ups) is taking care of the server and also the two new workstations. The computer workstations will replace our oldest machines . . . which . . . we got used from Clarkston Schools 5 years ago. These two units have had major failures this winter--and were recovered enough to limp along while we coordinated the replacement plan.</div><div><br /></div><div>The new hardware, means we will be upgrading operating systems and therefore upgrading our database management systems. Which is where I learned that the upgraded software doesn't talk to our website . . . yet . . . but it will.</div><div><br /></div><div>This black hole of interrelated technology woes could have been avoided with a regular technology upgrade plan.</div><div><br /></div><div>I will admit to being, at times, too thrifty. If there's a mile left in that baby--I'm going to run it that mile! The motivation has been simple--out of necessity, I've needed to get the biggest bang for every dollar. The budget has been squeaky tight.</div><div><br /></div><div>The thrill of dancing close to total technology failure, though, is not in the best interest of the Chamber--or you--our members. While I don't care for the adage "penny wise, pound foolish" it does apply here.</div><div><br /></div><div>The board of directors supports and is funding a technology plan that includes regular upgrades and replacements--before we have catastrophic failures.</div><div><br /></div><div>So if you're reading this . . . (thanks, by the way) . . . consider what you're doing to keep your data safe, your productivity high and your future clear.</div><div><ol><li>Invest in offsite back up services for your data. It will help you sleep at night. Trust me.</li><li>Take time to inventory what your technology status is right now--today. And pay special attention to how old your hardware is and whether or not your software has the latest updated version.</li><li>Make a plan for your recommended replacement schedule. </li><li>Include in that plan an annual check up--where you update your technology audit.</li></ol></div><div><br /></div><div>And just do it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Saving a few pennies today will be of little comfort when your technology decides to die.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-31831429571485631502011-03-01T09:27:00.000-05:002011-03-01T09:27:00.519-05:00History of Clarkston--An Interview with Buck & Joan KopietzInterview with Buck & Joan Kopietz:<br />March 2005—interviewed by Geri Batt<br /><br />Buck and Joan moved to Clarkston in 1973 opening their first business, Tierra Arts and Design at 3 S. Washington Street.<br /><br />In 1975, they moved their business to 20 N. Main Street.<br />They recall the downtown area doubling in retail businesses between 1975 and 1980, hitting its peak in the early 1980’s. The current Prudential Building, the apartment building across from the current Tierra, and Mill Street Mall housed a number of small shops and a large restaurant. Clarkston was booming! <br /><br />The Kopietz’s referred to this time frame as the “Camelot Era”. There were approximately 45 stores in downtown during that time frame and visitors came from all around including Birmingham to shop in Clarkston. The business district at this time was primarily between Washington and Church Street. <br /><br />Some examples of stores included: Clarkston Auto Parts in the Clarkston Travel Building, Reekwald Realty where the Village Grill is, Hallman Apothecary in the Essence on Main space, Yea Coffee Shop, Pam’s Sewing Basket, Pat’s Beauty Salon, and the Clarkston Bar, where the Clarkston Café is today. Across the street there was a clothing store owned by Fred and Sheila Ritter.<br /><br />The Kopietz’s described this era as a time when the resident primary shopping needs could be met in downtown Clarkston. It was a busy small town atmosphere with the streets filled with local walking traffic and visitors. The current Summit Place Mall, then known as Pontiac Mall, was available for more extensive shopping. During this time frame, Concerts in the Park were sponsored by BAIT (Business Association of Independence Township), which later started the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce. Joan Kopietz, a BAIT member, was responsible for Concerts in the Park for 10 years before they were taken over by the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce.<br /><br />Business changed drastically in the early 80’s due to a financial crunch in the United States and local government. Interest rates soared and small businesses in the Clarkston area folded. Retail buildings were sold and converted to office space, primarily Real Estate. The morale of the business community suffered and the draw of residents and visitors to Clarkston for shopping decreased dramatically. Tierra Arts and Crafts moved to 64 N. Main in 1982 upon the closing of one of the towns hardware stores. Buck recalls town folks thinking he was crazy for moving south of Church Street. However, in time this extended the downtown area of Clarkston. The building across Main from the new Tierra which was mini mall was sold and converted to apartments. The Mill Street Mall building on Washington also gradually changed from a restaurant and retail shops to offices.<br /><br />The Clarkston Union Bar and Kitchen was opened in 1996 when the Catallo Family converted an old church into the current restaurant. The Kopietz closed their art and office supply in the late 90’s and concentrated their efforts on the Tierra Fine Jewelry portion of their store renting additional space out to other small businesses. The Hallman’s Apothecary also closed in the early 90’s and after remaining vacant for awhile became a gift store and is now Essence on Main. The Kopietz opened the Millpond Bed and Breakfast at 155 N. Main Street in the 90’s.Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-56148263840658046492011-02-22T09:09:00.002-05:002011-02-22T09:09:00.798-05:00History of Clarkston--1st person interview with Dick Morgan (2005--when Dick was 90 years old)History of Business in Clarkston<br />Info gathered by Geri Batt<br />March 8, 2005<br /><br /><br />Interview with Dick Morgan (born in 1915)<br /><br />In 1932, Dick opened his business in Clarkston, Morgan’s Service, a full service auto repair with a gasoline pump. At that time the town was full of retail businesses: 4 grocery stores, 2 hardware stores, 3 car dealerships, 3 barber shops, an apothecary and a bank. There was also a grist mill, central telephone operator, and a restaurant. Dick described Clarkston as a “thriving town”. Farmers would bring their crops into the mill, go eat, and shop in town. He mentioned enjoying conversations with who he referred to now as the “old timers”. Personal service was important in those years. If you dropped off a prescription, it was filled and delivered to you when requested. At the grocery stores, 2 men worked to fill your order. Customers were treated with kindness and waited on. Dick said, “Fifty years ago, no one was in a hurry”. He too prided himself on giving personal service.<br /><br />Through the years, the village has remained the same size, one square mile but the downtown area has changed considerably. The grist mill is now a real estate office as is one of the old dealerships. Dick believes the development of franchise businesses forced the independent business owner out. Pharmacies like Walgreens, Rite Aid, and CVS of today replaced the small business owner. The independent town hardware stores were also slowly driven out of business first by franchise stores and then “big box” businesses like Home Depot. While this was a gradual process in the town of Clarkston, the 80’s brought forth the greatest changes. Offices replaced retail in many buildings.<br /><br />Dick stated that “Time waits for no one”. Dick, who has lived on Washington Street since 1945, says he continues to spend 10 hours a day at work.<br /><br />(Dick Morgan passed away October 2005. He was 90 years old)Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-6780221854015011932011-02-15T09:00:00.001-05:002011-02-15T09:00:35.604-05:00Anniversaries--and Core ValuesThis February, my parents will be celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary. So much has changed since 1951. They raised 5 kids, have 13 grand children and 5 great grandchildren.<br /><br />My father turns 80 this year and he's still a techie. He's got 2 computers--a super fast desk top and an efficient lap top. He's on Facebook (but thinks Twitter is ridiculous) and regularly reads newspapers, blogs and sports columns online.<br /><br />While he's an early adopter, mom is more traditional. She makes Dad type up her volunteer organization newsletters. She knows what data bases can deliver in terms of customized letters and mailing labels, but she pretends not to know how to "turn the computer on."<br /><br />In 1951, when my parents got married, they had no idea or expectation that their children and grandchildren would be speaking multiple foreign languages, travel all over the world on a regular basis to do business. That 7 of the 13 grandchildren are working in careers that didn't exist in 1951.<br /><br />What got me thinking about this was the fact that Royal Oak Chamber and Ferndale Chambers are celebrating 75 years in 2011 . . . . 75 years! Do the math--it means they were founded in 1936.<br /><br />Think about it. All of the changes in the world, the business world--technology, communication, marketing, radio, TV, Internet. Think about how different Detroit is--How different Michigan is.<br /><br />Did the charter members of these Chambers dream about what their chambers would look like, or be in 75 years? Where would you begin to even dream? The context of what the world is like and how businesses interact in it--is so different from 1936.<br /><br />Perhaps that's why we build our foundation with core values. Values that do not change even when technology or the world changes.<br /><br />The Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce is member focused. We intentionally include new members and rotate leadership opportunities. We believe in positive promotion of our member businesses--not high pressure sales and spiteful competition.<br /><br />Lifelong learning is important and it requires continual investment in listening, learning and evaluating what works. This isn't 1936 . . . or 1951.<br /><br />How you grow your business is different than what you might have done in 1970. The tools available are certainly different. And the value of your personal brand--your honesty, integrity and value offerings have never carried so much weight.<br /><br />A glitzy marketing campaign no longer covers up a lackluster product.<br />Miserable customer service isn't a secret for long and is a business killer.<br />The command performance expectation of, "you should do business with me because I'm here." just doesn't cut it anymore. <span style="font-style: italic;">(if it ever did)</span><br /><br />When I think about our Chamber 75 years from now, I believe the core values will be the same. What we look like, how we do business--flying cars--that remains to be seen.Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-36453302305427998962011-02-08T09:00:00.000-05:002011-02-08T09:00:05.851-05:00A word from one of our Ambassadors<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyaFAqRf3dNKhJNi5iKTA5zqTuRSYnt5HI7WRVzTtba13uzHd5svgAz4T6ppFpn5OvPi-P2iSnSzaJ2EXumUQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><br /><br /><b><strong>Town Planner Community Calendar </strong></b> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.townplanner.com/"> www.TownPlanner.com </a> <br /> Jay/Deb Gordinier <br /> 248-620-5332 <br /> 11632 Old Oaks Dr <br /> Davisburg , MI 48350-3447 <br /> <a href="mailto:gordinier@townplanner.com">gordinier@townplanner.com </a>Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434320715077736531.post-63380342089283926572011-02-07T13:23:00.000-05:002011-02-07T13:23:00.214-05:00On the hunt for great values?Did you know that Chamber member businesses that host BOBs (Business Over Breakfasts) often have special offers/values available while you're at the event?<br /><br />I'm just saying, that if you're looking for the perfect Valentine's gift, you may want to check out the February BOB at Belle Visage Spa.<br /><br /><p style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><strong>February 10, 2011</strong></p> <p style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;">7:45-9:00 a.m.</p><p style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><strong>Belle Visage</strong></p> <p style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;">6507 Town Center Dr.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;">Clarkston, MI 43846</p>Penny Shankshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673120441311097338noreply@blogger.com0