Heart Of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce

Networking opportunities are everywhere. You no longer must leave your house to be able to network, but studies now show that online networking doesn’t hold the same power as in-person networking. Networking is critical to landing a job, learning about opportunities before they are broadcast, and getting more sales for your business. You need to do it, even if you hate it, and one of the easiest most effective networking groups is the chamber. But the chamber does more than just introduce you to others. It offers very strong networking tools and opportunities. Here are several things you probably didn’t know about how you can improve your business networking with chamber membership.  5 Ways You’ll Improve Your Networking Skills with a Chamber Membership According to HubSpot, 85% of people “say they build stronger, more meaningful business relationships during in-person business meetings and conferences.” Chambers facilitate this on a weekly basis in some form...

3 Types of Business Stories that Appeal to Millennials © Can Stock Photo Inc. / kanzefar If you’re looking to increase your business sales among Millenials improving your storytelling is a good start. Telling your story effectively imparts a more human side to your business. It’s also memorable and develops an emotional connection between your business and your audience. Most sales gurus will admit it’s the emotional side of the brain that drives purchasing, so storytelling gets your business where you want to be. Effective Types of Storytelling for Gen Y The following types of stories will improve your connection to Gen Y but they should never be used disingenuously. Use what fits your business. Don’t alter your story just to get likes or shares, or customers. Saving the World Compared to their cynical Gen X predecessors, at least 39% of Gen Ys polled believe they will do something in their lifetimes that will contribute to the world becoming a better place. Tellin...

7 of the Best TED Talks for Small Business © Can Stock Photo Inc. / ra2studio One of the hardest things about running a business is finding the resources you need – be it human resources, financial resources, or educational resources. There's no question you know your product, service or industry but what do you know about running a business or social media, or marketing, or sales? And how has it changed since you last learned it all? Finding good quality (inexpensive) learning resources to keep you at the top of your industry can mean the difference between success and struggle. A chamber membership is a great investment for your professional and business development as is some time spent absorbing the innovative ideas of others. TED talks are an amazing opportunity to learn (on your schedule) from a few of the brightest minds in our world. Best of all, the talks are free. Here is a list of some of the best TED talks for small business owners: Got a Wicked Problem? ...

5 Tips on How You Can Start Using Video for Your Business © Can Stock Photo Inc. / venimo Video content has exploded as a marketing tool and if you’re on the sidelines wondering why, it may help to know that according to eMarketer, daily time dedicated to digital video watching (for adults) has increased exponentially over the past 5 years. From a measly 6 minutes a day in 2010, to 55 minutes in 2014, we’re certainly getting our time in front of the screen. But it’s not just the amount of time spent that causes marketers to flock to this medium. According to a report by Unruly, enjoyment of a brand video causes intent to purchase to rise by 97%. Getting started is often the biggest challenge. Most business owners are surprised to hear it doesn’t take expensive equipment and actors. You can create cheap videos for your company with a phone, laptop, inexpensive lighting and a quality mic. By all means, if you have the money and want to hire it out, that’s fine too. H...

The Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce 69th Annual Meeting and Awards presents Discovering Local Treasures .   Each year, Central Wisconsin businesses and community leaders are recognized for business excellence and community impact at the Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting & Awards. Honoring a 69th - year community tradition, the annual meeting & awards provide a unique opportunity for the community to engage, connect and collaborate. This is a special opportunity to recognize and encourage excellence. Recipients are identified for their contributions to a job well done. 69th Annual Meeting & Awards Date: Thursday, February 9, 2017 Location: Hotel Mead & Conference Center 451 East Grand Avenue, Wisconsin Rapids Award winners will be announced live and welcomed to the stage.   Chamber Website Events Calendar  Annual Meeting & Awards Webpage 68th Annual Meeting & Awards