MYRIAM GONZALEZ
Each month the Springtown Area Chamber of Commerce holds a monthly meeting to help promote and advocate for local businesses and their growth. On Thursday, Jan. 22, the topic focused on the importance of networking and how it aids in doing just that.
Attendees typically check in and sit wherever they choose, but this month chamber rpesident Kim Ware and the committee switched gears, having people draw numbers and sit in assigned seats instead. Why? Guests would soon find out. During her opening speech, Ware touched on how often people do not make the effort to get to know each other — perhaps missing a business opportunity.
“How many times did you walk up to somebody that you didn't know at a chamber luncheon and introduce yourself and tell them what you do, what's your business?” Ware asked. “It's amazing how people don't talk to strangers — stranger danger. We're brought up stranger danger, but in the business world, strangers can be your best friend — they can be your next customer,” she added.
As guests enjoyed their lunch, sponsored by Alvin Ord’s, Ware seized the moment to welcome the chamber’s latest inductees — Homage Hospice and the Tri-County Flag Football League. Representatives from both organizations took a moment to introduce themselves and their organization before participating in the inaugural ribbon cutting ceremony.
Next, Ware jokingly said it was “time for the fun stuff.”
Ware proceeded to select three guests from the crowd to serve as examples in an exercise she called “elevator speeches.” During these elevator speeches each person had one minute to introduce themselves, their business and what it’s all about — a quick, efficient networking opportunity. After laying out ground rules, selectees made their best attempt at the impromptu request, with Ware offering words of advice.
“Everybody has an opportunity to say why somebody should know you.”
However, not everyone left unscathed from the day’s event. The purpose of drawing numbers at the start of the luncheon was to seat people who normally would not cross paths next to one another, giving them a chance to connect. Each table took their turn presenting elevator speeches to one another, exchanging business cards and pamphlets in between. As audible chatter and laughs filled the room, it was clear that the lines of communication were open between otherwise would be strangers.
Ware concluded the evening reemphasizing the topic of the day by giving examples of the many times she came across business opportunities through networking.
“So, think about the things that I told you. I want to give you some things that will help promote your business, school district. Don't tell people things that are bad, only talk about the good,” she laughed.
After some updates on upcoming important dates, the luncheon wrapped up with new introductions and hopefully, new business connections.
