As printed in the 4.20.11 issue of The Woodstock Independent
Kick Start Your Business
We are almost half way through the year. Hopefully your taxes are done, your winter blues have subsided and you are ready to bring new life to your business.
Join a professional organization. Talk to other business people to spark new ideas, refine old ones, and make contacts. Whether it’s a group specifically designed for networking or an organization dedicated to a particular type of business, make the effort to be a part of an organization and it could energize you and your business.
Chambers specifically serve a diverse membership that is interested in networking, educational opportunities, business-friendly legislative initiatives and the promotion of their businesses. Does your local Chamber have a mission statement that fits your values and business plan? Is it active in offering a variety of programs and networking groups to provide you with solid resources for business contacts and information? Whether your choice is to join the Chamber where your business exists and/or where you do the most business, Chambers are great organizations to help you energize your business. Get involved by attending events, joining a committee or taking a seminar. Remember, you will only get out of it what you put into it. woodstockilchamber.org or clchamber.com
Rotary is a worldwide organization of business and professional leaders that provides humanitarian service and encourages high ethical standards in all vocations. Here you can easily become more involved in your community and simultaneously provide aid to other parts of the world. Learn how to get started at rotary.org.
Sometimes our favorite recreational activity is the best avenue for building business. A golf league is a relaxed, casual environment where business deals naturally happen. Check with your local Chamber or golf club for opportunities.
Many contractors swear by the benefits they receive in joining a trade association. Gaining industry knowledge from your peers and staying on top of new products, laws and benefits available to your particular trade creates value in your membership.
Join a professional business women’s group. They typically welcome employed or retired business women that support the objectives of their organization, are interested in serving within the community and promote education for women.
By joining a professional organization you will surely kick start your business.
Laura A. Witlox is the Communications Coordinator of the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce and Proprietress of The Persistent Assistant and can be reached at laura@thepersistentassistant.com.
As always, an insightful look at what most business owners or even people that don’t own a business don’t think about. Gave me pause about joining a professional group. I am sure there are many groups out there that meet after hours..
By: Jo Rinkema on June 27, 2011
at 10:42 am