If you have read the front-page story of this edition, you've learned about companies that are helping build the future today.
Well, I'm here to tell you what the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce is doing to help our members chart their course for success.
I'm going to focus on two programs, our Professional Development Series and our networking events.
The reason I'm doing this is that taking part in these offerings is an easy and sure-fire way to make sure that you're getting the most of your Chamber membership, and ensuring that all of our members are actively engaged is one of my priorities.
Yes, we're one of the largest Chambers in California based on the size of our membership, but what really makes us stand out is that we have a strong cadre of actively involved members that know what the Chamber is, what it does. They are always working to make our Chamber the best that it can be.
First, I'd like to talk about our Professional Development opportunities, which many of you may know as "workshops."
We know that it's not often convenient to learn new things when you're a business owner. Most of the business owners I speak with talk about being pulled in so many directions that they don't have time to go out and learn about new technology tools and skills, even those that can help them be more efficient, get a better return on their investment or save them money.
Our Professional Development opportunities are presented specifically toward small-business owners and serve as a good way to obtain new tools and information to help you grow your business and succeed.
I would like to direct your attention to two upcoming events that could greatly benefit your business.
The first event is the ABCs of Government Contracting Workshop which will take place at the Chamber from 8-10 a.m. on Tuesday, March 31. We hold these workshops in conjunction with North San Diego SBDC periodically to help small-business owners learn tips and tricks to win government contracts, including how to find opportunities and bid on them. It also outlines the rules and regulations that federal contractors need to follow.
The other workshop, also in conjunction with North San Diego SBDC, is a certification workshop, which will take place from 8-10 a.m. on Tuesday, April 28 at the Chamber. If you've ever wondered what it takes to have your business certified as woman-owned, veteran-owned, a small business, a green business or a historically underutilized business, this is the workshop for you. North San Diego SBDC's Cheryl Brown will talk about the certifications that are available and give a detailed description of the application process, including what you need and the benefits of each certification.
You can see a full list of upcoming opportunities in the calendar on page 16, or visit www.carlsbad.org. Next, let's talk a little about networking the Carlsbad Chamber way. I've written about it in depth before, but if you need a quick refresher, just keep in mind that the Chamber's idea of networking is not just meeting new people, handing out business cards and hoping for a referral. We want you to build relationships first, and to help others with the understanding that the business you provide to your fellow Chamber members will at some point come back to you.
One networking opportunity that I think is underused by our members is the First Friday Breakfast. We often get a lot of information about business that is discouraging, but First Friday Breakfasts are the opposite, we look to bring you empowering and uplifting talks that can get you thinking about your business in new ways.
Another great thing about First Friday Breakfasts is the introductory portion, which features structured networking that is spurred along by our moderators. You're guaranteed to meet at least seven new people in industries that are not your own. This is a great way to network, and I can personally tell you many stories of members who came together at First Friday Breakfasts and developed strategic business partnerships. How cool is that!
So I urge you to get started working on your future, and the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce can assist you along the way.
If you have any questions about how to make the most of your membership, give me a call at 760-931-8400 or email me at [email protected].