How to Diversify Your Professional Network (Because Your Connections Shouldn't All Be Just Like You) 
Shared by YoPros Committee Member, Alison Trumble, Automation Alley
​
​Be honest: Do all of your professional contacts look and sound the same? Did your boss and all your work friends go to the same kind of school as you? Did everyone in your network take similar paths to get where they are? 

“One of the most important things you should do for yourself personally and professionally is to have a diverse network, a robust network that’s full of different people with various backgrounds at varying levels with assorted life and career experiences,” says Rahdiah Barnes, President of the National Association for Multi-Ethnicity in Communications (NAMIC) in New York.

Maybe you’d never given it much thought before, but recent protests against racial injustice have made you take a hard look at what you could be doing to address inequities in the world and at work. Or maybe you’ve wanted to connect with different people but you’re not sure how to go about it. Either way, there are so many reasons to make the effort to expand and diversify your network.

When you get to know and build relationships with a more diverse group of people, you can help everyone come by the opportunities they deserve by referring and recommending them. You can support efforts to diversify your company and industry. And by connecting with people from all different backgrounds and perspectives, you can gain valuable insight that will make you better at your job, no matter what you do.
If you’re looking to build a more diverse network—so you can be a part of the anti-racist solution and grow as a professional—here are some steps you can take.

1. Start With Your “Why”
Before you start, make sure you’re diversifying your network for the right reasons. How do you get to the bottom of your motives? Ask yourself: “Why am I doing this?” And try to be honest with yourself as you reflect on what your intentions and goals really are.

A healthy answer may sound like, “I want to be able to refer a Black or POC colleague as an option when asked if I have another project manager to recommend for a job,” or, “I want to make sure that whenever I’m making a new hire for my team I’m interviewing candidates from different backgrounds and ultimately building a stronger, more diverse team.” These reasons provide opportunities to support groups of people who are underrepresented.

You should make absolutely sure your reasons aren’t rooted in racial stereotypes or any unconscious bias. You may want to reevaluate your reasons if you think, for instance, “I want to help my Black colleagues come off less angry in meetings and make a better impression.”

Diversity efforts are in no way about charity or pity—it’s about access for everyone. Start from a place of building rapport and familiarity with people different from you so you have a broad network you can support and learn from.

2. Focus on Building Relationships
You wouldn’t go up to someone you don't know and say, “Hey, I’m an ally looking for some new friends, preferably Black.” (Of course not!) So don’t do that in professional settings either. Approach new people from a perspective of interest and wanting to learn more about them and their careers.

Ultimately, the goal is to make sure you forge positive relationships as you meet new people of all backgrounds in different settings. If you set out with that intention, rather than just to check off some diversity boxes, you’ll be more likely to succeed—and everyone will benefit.

As you start going to more events, getting more introductions, and expanding your circle, get into the habit of being a good listener. Use each interaction as an opportunity to learn about experiences different from your own. You can ask questions like:

• “What led you to your current career path?”
• “What’s the biggest challenge you encounter?”
• “What ways do you wish you had more support?”
• “What are you really excited to do next in your career?”

Questions like these also offer insight that you can keep in mind when it comes to looking for ways to support different people. If you know, for example, that someone you met really wants to find a job in sales for a company focused on solar energy where they can interact with clients but also manage a team, you’ll know who to recommend if you hear of a similar opportunity.

The good news is that the same networking tips apply no matter who you’re connecting with. So as you would in any networking situation, make sure you listen more than you talk, prioritize quality connections over quantity, think about what you can offer, suggest a casual way to keep in touch, and then actually follow up. It’s through these kinds of conversations you’ll make natural connections and build relationships that don’t even feel like you’re trying to do anything other than grow as a professional.

3. Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
Even if you’re confident that you’re moving forward for the right reasons, you may still feel awkward actually doing it. Admittingly, connecting meaningfully with people from different demographics and backgrounds may be out of your comfort zone, especially if you haven't done so in the past.

It’s easier than you think to end up with friends and colleagues who are just like you. Perhaps your neighborhood and schools weren’t diverse growing up or your industry is pretty homogenous and you’ve ended up with colleagues who have very similar backgrounds in most jobs you’ve held.

The first step is recognizing where you are and acknowledging that you’ve gotten comfortable. The next is to get in the habit of reaching outside of your bubble so you don't stay in one.

Ask for Introductions
You can even start by turning to your current not-so-diverse network and asking for introductions to people they may know.

You might say, “Hey, your friend from your last company, Luisa, seems to be doing really cool work programming in the edtech space right now and I’d be curious to hear more about what she’s up to. Any chance you could introduce us?” or “Remember you mentioned that former coworker of yours, Jamal, who really wanted to start his own community outreach program for teens interested in public art? I’d love to talk to him. I think I might know a few people who could help him get started.”

You don’t have to put out a public service announcement. But the more introductions you ask for through existing connections, the easier it will be to start getting out of your comfort zone and taking action. And then your new “bubble” becomes a little more diverse and it’s easier to continue on that path. Challenge yourself to get comfortable with being uncomfortable and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Reach Out to Colleagues and New Hires With Intention 
Another place to start expanding your network is within your own organization. Regardless of your role, there are many ways you can be more intentional about reaching out to colleagues and new hires, whether they’re peers or in roles more senior or junior than yours.

Sometimes it can be natural to take the initiative to connect with people who are like you—maybe you notice that a fellow alum from your school who had the same major or was in the same student group a few years after you is joining your company and you reach out to talk about all the things you have in common. But if that’s the only scenario in which you make an effort to talk to a new hire, it won’t help you diversify your network. So try to notice and check your natural tendencies.

Instead, look to welcome new hires at any level and to support and mentor more junior colleagues who aren't like you. For example, if you're a mid-level employee, make sure you're not just drawn to the new entry-level hires and interns who remind you of yourself. Instead, reach out to some from a different background. You can invite them to a coffee chat (in person or virtually) and try to connect every month or so to see how things are going and what you might be able to do to help. You can also mention an upcoming company event and suggest attending together.

The most important thing is to show that your support is genuine and ongoing and not performative. And keep in touch, even if you or they leave the company for another opportunity.

Get Involved With a Company ERG
You can also look to existing communities within your organization. “Engaging with different groups at work is a great way to meet people that you are not exactly alike but have much in common. This is an easy way to make new connections,” Barnes says.

Many companies have ERGs (employee resource groups), employee-led groups that are meant to foster community and support diversity and inclusion within the workplace. The groups can center around race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or military status, to name a few.

ERGs often hold events that are open to anyone at the company, so there are plenty of opportunities to meet new people. “It's not uncommon for employees from different ERGs to attend each other's events. It's encouraged by the company and ERG leaders for networking and company camaraderie. It's also a great way to share best practices and common challenges,” Barnes says. I saw this in action recently when I presented a LinkedIn workshop for an African American Network ERG at a Fortune 500 company and a variety of employees attended, including the Office Managing Partner (the most senior executive).

If you want to take it a step further, see if there are any opportunities to volunteer to help put together an event, support any other projects, or join the ERG as an ally, if that particular group is open to it. By getting more involved, you’ll have a chance to get to know and work closely with people you may not have met otherwise. You can further show allyship by being an advocate when it comes to keeping members in mind for opportunities where their expertise is needed, across the company or outside of it.

Follow Minority and Multicultural Nonprofit and Professional Organizations
Building a diverse network doesn't have to stop at your own company. Another way to find and meet new people is by following multicultural organizations online, attending events, and otherwise getting involved. For example, Barnes’s organization, NAMIC, is for professionals at all levels in the media and communications industry. Her chapter runs regular events that are geared toward career topics that are timely and helpful.

Nonprofit organizations and professional member associations can help you expand your network with a purpose and get to know new people in your field who have different backgrounds but may have similar professional interests. So find diverse organizations you can follow and commit to engaging with new people.
If you’re not sure which organizations there are in your industry, you can look first to general professional groups to find out more. For example, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants can point you to the National Association of Black Accountants, the Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting, and other groups.

Look for upcoming events on their websites and follow their social media pages. Just by following organizations like these and joining in the conversation (whether it’s through in-person or virtual events or on online discussion boards or groups) you’re expanding your circle.

When it comes down to it, expanding and diversifying your network is part of your personal development and professional growth. The more you reach out, the more you’ll also learn about yourself. The key is to remember that this change will not happen overnight. It’ll take time but if you’re intentional, it can be done. Not only will you have a chance to amplify and support others, but you’ll also develop as a professional and grow your career.

*Originally posted on themuse*

Why I Love Cold Calling and You Should Too
Shared from YoPros Committee Member, Alison Trumble - Automation Alley 
When you were a kid, did you dream of cold calling? Looking up all the information you can find on the internet and trying to build rapport with a stranger? Of course not. We want to be firemen, astronauts and doctors. Nobody dreams of a career in sales. In today’s culture, sales positions are abundant and, hey, anyone can sell right?
I went to school for marketing. Upon graduation, however, I learned quickly that every company and their mom were looking for salesmen- salesmen that, if good, could be making the big bucks in no time. That’s how it is always advertised right? Base salary with commission. You can make up to six figures in three years! Sounds promising, doesn’t it? Well after a few (successful and non) attempts at sales, I learned some things that can hopefully help you to make the big bucks.
Believe in your product/service
If you don’t 1000% support what you’re selling, you will hate it.  At my previous job, I was not behind what I was selling, and it showed in my attitude, my numbers and my paycheck. Don’t get me wrong, I had good days, but in the big picture I wasn’t learning, wasn’t happy, and I wasn’t helping myself or others. Now I am at a company where I am chomping at the bit to let people know what we do and how I can help. I am genuinely excited to get to work and call strangers!
Track and set goals
Without good data and tracking you will never figure out what works for you. Is it a call in the morning? At night? Maybe send emails and then set up a meeting. You need to get a good record of what you are doing and determine what is successful. You will start to notice a pattern. From there, you can create a successful plan and sales cycle based on your close rate.
Be persistent and confident
One of the hardest things about sales and cold calling is picking up the phone after getting rejected. One of the ways I combat this is persistence. My boss tells me, “Every no brings you closer to a yes, so ask yourself, “Did I hit my NO quota for the day?”” This is where you can set a goal and watch. As you call more and more, the yes’s go up and the no’s go down. Just keep at it.
Constantly Learn/Review
The only way your sales technique gets better is by learning and reviewing. After every call or meeting, go over how it went. What did you do right? What could have been different? Once you learn how you work best and what phrase really resonates with your customers, you’ll be on a roll.
Not everyone is going to have that salesman charm, but with practice and choosing the right steps, you can get there. I started off cold calling people asking for $25. Now I make sales that are far greater. It takes a little bit of persistence and hard work, but it is true, anyone can be a salesman!

Macomb County Has Opened Three New Macomb County CARES for Small Businesses Relief Programs
Below is a list of grant opportunities available to Macomb County businesses. Please carefully read the eligibility and all required documents needed. Incomplete applications will disqualify your application.
 
Microenterprise Assistance Grant Program
The Microenterprise Assistance Grant Program is funded by the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, will make up to $2 million available to help local businesses impacted by COVID-19.  This program will provide grant funding to qualified microenterprises that have lost revenue or incurred additional costs as a result of COVID-19.   Applications will be accepted beginning September 1st at 9 a.m. through September 30th at 11:59 a.m. Eligibility may vary depending on individual communities. This program does have employee count and income level restrictions.

Workplace Safety 
The Macomb County CARES for Small Business Program will make up to $10 million available to help local small businesses be reimbursed for Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and Technology, in the Workplace Safety Program. Businesses with 500 or less employees may submit PPE and technology receipts/invoices for reimbursement.  

Online Business Connect 
The Macomb County CARES for Small Business Program will make up to $5 million available to help local small businesses get online or enhance their online presence, in the Online Business Connect Program. This program is targeted to customer-facing businesses who can utilize these grant monies to gain flexibility in being able to pivot their business to online due to social distancing restrictions. The application opens September 1, 2020. Work performed must be under contractual obligation through vetted vendors.

COVID-19 Scams Continue
By: Genisys Credit Union
As businesses start reopening and people begin returning to work throughout the country, the initial thought was that COVID-19 scams would cease. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case. If anything, they are continuing. Some might even say they are growing as people begin to return to the office, and life begins to take on the appearance of a new normal. Scammers are viewing this as an opportunity to use COVID-19 for their own purposes. 
Here are some of the scams that are going around at the moment that we want to point out to our members. 
COVID-19 Contact Tracing ScamsThe Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently released a warning about a contact tracing text message scam. Scammers send text messages that closely mirror actual text messages sent on behalf of the department of health in individual states. Contract tracing is a process where the state’s health department works with those infected with the coronavirus to alert others they may have been in contact with. 
The real contact tracing messages do not ask for any personal, financial, or identifying information from recipients. The scam messages, on the other hand, do. If you receive a similar message and they ask for your Social Security number, bank account information, or credit card information, it is a scam. 
Also, “contact tracing” text messages asking you to click on a link are scam text messages. We’ve drilled this in before, but do not click on the link!
Other scams to be on the lookout for are:

• Robocall scams offering fake cures over the phone or data mining for information.
• Robocall scams offering free COVID-19 testing kits.
• Robocall scams selling health insurance.
• Phishing relief scams that provide large sums of money if you fill out their forms.
• Banking information scams pretending to verify account numbers to deposit relief checks into your financial accounts.

The problem with these scams is that they can look surprisingly official. Many of them claim to be from actual government agencies promising help to desperate, afraid, and confused people. Unfortunately, high-risk individuals, such as the elderly, are more frequently targeted.
As you can see, there is no shortage of scams out there. Now, as businesses are returning to work and opening their doors, scammers are targeting business owners. These come in the form of emails, texts, and phone calls promising government grants, additional Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) payments, and more. Scammers thrive in environments of confusion. Preventing fraud is the best way to fight it.
How You Can Help YourselfWe’re all navigating uncharted waters at the moment. This is something new for everyone. That doesn’t mean there aren’t things you can do to protect yourself. Here are some of the actions you can take to protect yourself from many of these scams.

• Filter or block text messages from unknown senders on your phone. Some carriers can help you through this process.
• Protect financial and credit accounts with multi-factor authentication. This makes it more difficult for scammers to break into your accounts.
• Auto-update security systems on your electronic devices to prevent malware attacks. Use anti-virus software on all your devices, including computers, tablets, and mobile phones.
• Create frequent backups of important files to the cloud.
• Use unique passwords and change them periodically.
• Don’t click on links in emails, texts, or even social media from people or organizations you don’t know.
• Verify that information claiming to be from trusted organizations or government agencies is actually from these agencies – even so, don’t give out identifying information over the phone, through email, or via text message.
• Check the sender’s email address to make sure it is authentic. Scammers often replicate emails sent from other businesses, but usually have a different email, such as orders@da-amazon.com rather than orders@amazon.com. The difference is subtle, but it is there.

Prevention is the best cure, and these steps will help you avoid some of the dangerous COVID-19 scams going around at the moment.
We’re Here to Help!Unfortunately, scams related to COVID-19 are not going anywhere. It’s important to remain vigilant and take steps to actively prevent fraud on your accounts. As your Credit Union, we care about the privacy and protection of your accounts. However, scams directly targeting people through text messages, emails, and phone calls still occur.

*Shared from YoPros Committee Member, Kyle Provencher from Genisys Credit Union*

IRS Provides RMD Relief for 2020
By: Gordon Advisors
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act waives all required minimum distributions for 2020, regardless of whether the taxpayer has been impacted by the pandemic.

The $2.2 trillion CARES economic stimulus bill passed in March to provide relief from the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States included a number of provisions related to required minimum distributions (RMDs) from retirement plans.  These changes were designed to allow seniors to retain plan assets when they might otherwise have to sell at market lows due to the economic impact of Coronavirus.
 
Participants in account-based retirement plans are required by law to take RMDs after the plan participant or IRA owner reaches a certain age.  The goal is for individuals to use their tax-advantaged retirement assets during their lifetime rather than passing on to their heirs.  Distribution amounts for each year are based on a formula that includes the individual’s age and account balance at the end of the prior year.
 
“Since RMD amounts are calculated based on the value of the account at the end of the previous year, the market fluctuations due to COVID-19 could have had unfavorable consequences for some taxpayers,” says Mary Wade, Senior Manager at Gordon Advisors.  “The IRS recognized this and included it in the CARES bill to provide some flexibility for those who can afford not to take distributions.”
 
Since RMDs out of non-Roth IRA accounts are fully taxable at ordinary rates, retirees who can afford it usually elect to postpone them as long as possible.  We’ve addressed common questions relating to the RMD relief provisions, but please contact Gordon Advisors for any additional information related to your specific tax situation.  We are here to help.
 
What types of retirement plans receive RMD relief for 2020?
The waiver under the CARES Act applies to defined contribution plans (401(k), 403(b) or 457(b) plans, for example), tax-sheltered annuity plans, and traditional or Roth IRAs.  Defined benefit pension plans are not included.
 
Who is eligible to receive the RMD waiver?
If you are subject to RMDs, the waiver applies to you.  There are no age or income restrictions on who can use the RMD waiver.
 
What if I’ve already taken an RMD in 2020?
In IRS Notice 2020-51 issued on June 23rd, they extended the deadline for retirement account beneficiaries to rollover or repay the RMD back to the distributing account on or before August 31, 2020
 
What if I took my 2020 RMD more than 60 days ago?
All RMDs taken between January 1, 2020 until August can be rolled over or re-contributed by the new August 31, 2020 deadline.  The full amount of the distribution must be rolled over or re-contributed to avoid taxes.
 
What if I took multiple RMDs this year?
Typically, you are limited to rolling over or re-contributing one distribution during a rolling 12 month window.  This new guidance means that you can take multiple 2020 RMDs and roll over or re-contribute the assets by August 31, 2020.
 
What if I opted to have federal and/or state taxes withheld from my RMD?
Unfortunately, tax withholdings cannot be reversed.  You can, however, make up the difference and rollover or re-contribute an amount equivalent to the taxes withheld.  You can then claim that amount when you file your 2020 taxes next year.
 
What if I turned 70 ½ in 2019 and did not take my first RMD in 2019?
For those individuals who chose to wait until April 1, 2020 and had not yet taken the distribution at the time the CARES legislation was passed, they can waive both the 2019 and the 2020 RMDs.
 
Does this change my required beginning date?
The new rule does not change an individual’s RMD required beginning date, just waives the RMD for 2020.  The RMD for 2020 is also waived for an individual whose required beginning date is April 1, 2021.
 
Did this law change the age at which RMDs need to be taken?
No, that was a different law passed earlier.  The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act changed the law so that if you turn 70 ½ in 2020 or later, the new age at which RMDs need to be taken is 72.
 
What if I’m still working when I turn 72?
Participants who continue to work past the year they turn 72 do not need to start RMDs from their current employee plan such as a 401(k) until the year they are no longer an employee.  This special exception does not apply to IRAs, plans from prior employers, or if the individual owns more than five percent of the employer.
 
Does the waiver include inherited IRAs?
Yes.  It also includes inherited Roth IRAs.
 
What about someone who died and whose interest is required to be distributed within five years?
2020 is not included in the five year period.  For someone who died in 2017, for example, the five year period ends in 2023 instead of 2022.
 
Any other notable features of the CARES Act?
Section 2202 of the CARES Act includes a separate provision providing expanded distribution options and favorable tax treatment for up to $100,000 of coronavirus-related distributions from eligible retirement plans.  It also increases the amount an individual may borrow from an eligible non-IRA retirement plan, and permits plan sponsors to grant qualified individuals up to an additional year to repay loans from retirement plans.
 
Who qualifies for this special provision?
According to the IRS, you are qualified if:

• You, your spouse, or dependent are diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19 by a CDC-approved test.
• You experience adverse financial consequences as a result of being quarantined, being furloughed or laid off, or having work hours reduced due to the pandemic.
• You are unable to work because of lack of child care due to the pandemic.
• A business that you own or operate closes or reduces hours due to the pandemic.

 
Do I have to pay the 10% additional tax on coronavirus-related distributions?
No, the 10% additional tax that would normally be applied to early distributions does not apply to any coronavirus-related distributions.
 
When do I pay taxes on coronavirus-related distributions?
Coronavirus-related distributions are included in income over a three year period starting in the year in which your receive the distribution.  If you receive a $90,000 coronavirus-related distribution in 2020, you would report $30,000 of income on your federal tax return for 2020, 2021 and 2022.  You have the option of include your entire distribution in your income for the year in which you received it.
 
Please contact Gordon Advisors for answers to any questions not covered here, or for more details related to your specific financial and tax situation.  We are here to help.
 
*Shared from Gordon Advisors*

If you would like to submit a guest blog post to the Chamber's blog page, please send an email to Ashley Edwards for more information, aedwards@shrcci.com.

Can I let you in on a little secret? It's so simple that once I tell you, you won't be able to unsee it.
LinkedIn gives you a FREE billboard on your profile. Yes, free.Your LinkedIn header is the equivalent of a free billboard you see on the side of the highway, and it's on every single person's LinkedIn account.

About half of the profiles I review on LinkedIn have the default: teal green with the interconnected dots and lines. Like this:

Think about the last time you drove by a highway billboard that said "THIS SPACE AVAILABLE." If you have the above on your profile, it's basically the same thing.

Look at your profile right now. Do you have the teal blue dots/lines default image?
If so... YOU ARE WASTING AN OPPORTUNITY. (sorry: I'm a "tough love" kind of LinkedIn coach).


TIP: change the default image NOW to something INTERESTING that aligns with your professional brand or your company brand.

• You can simply upload an image to your LinkedIn header by finding a picture from your marketing department or a stock image website (I recommend Pexels.com or Unsplash.com).
  
• Be sure that you check the alignment by viewing your profile from the desktop version of LinkedIn as well as the mobile view. You may find that something that works well on desktop has important elements (YOUR LOGO, for example...) that are hidden a bit on mobile. I created and use this template to guide me into the areas that are hidden by my profile photo on desktop and mobile. Feel free to right click and download it or share it with others. The dimensions are 1584x396px. I don't know of the exact position of the circle. I'm not a graphic designer. I use canva.com
  

• The ideal image size for your LinkedIn header image is 1584x396px. I use Canva.com to create images that are perfectly sized to these dimensions, and I export them from Canva to a png format to upload into LinkedIn.
  
• The bonus when creating this LinkedIn header image in Canva is that you can create a message to lay on top of the image, as I have on my header image.
  

Just like a billboard gets boring and then becomes virtually invisible after you've driven past it every day for a month, people start to ignore your header image if you never change it. I tweak my header image every few months with a new marketing tip, LinkedIn tip, or product/service I am highlighting.

Here are links to a few profiles containing LinkedIn header images that are done quite well:

Amanda Holdan-Sinisi https://www.linkedin.com/in/aholdan-sinisi/. Amanda uses an image of a mountain in the background. This gives me the impression she is a high achiever who enjoys challenges.

​Rob Fershtman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robfershtman/. A nice nod to his industry and brand. Cool image, isn't it?

MiVida Burrus https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmburrus/ uses an image that is complementary to her company's brand, but slightly different in color scheme.

​David Bann https://www.linkedin.com/in/davebann/ works for the Leader Dog organization. Who doesn't love puppies?

​Tanya Abreu https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanyaabreu/ has a cool bubble rainbow effect in her header. It reminds me of a garden globe.

​Chris Meller https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismeller67/ (yes, he's my husband) is active in networking and recruiting and has a collage of photos. It shows variety in his brand.

​Pam Majchrzak https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamelamajchrzak/ has a visually interesting color image that makes me think of patterns and energy. This aligns well with her job title and industry expertise.

​Greg Coyne https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregcoyne/ uses a branded image with his website. Even though you can't click the web address, you don't need to dig around his profile to find it.

​Craig Fry https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigfry/ illustrates his product with an eye-catching brand color background. I wonder if he could make me a #socialmediapie pin?

​These are just a few of the many LinkedIn header images I frequently cite during individual and team training sessions. I'm always on the lookout for other images, so if you have an interesting one, comment below.

Hopefully these examples and this blog provide some inspiration to you.

OK. So now you're convinced that you need to change your header image.

STUMPED on how to change it? You're not alone. Watch this video to learn how to change your LinkedIn header image. Or, contact your marketing department or me (see info below).

​*************************************
Let's connect on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/brendameller

Need help with LinkedIn? Contact me.

I specialize in optimizing LinkedIn profiles to maximize your impact - helping you drive more of the RIGHT audience to your profile and than keeping them there when they visit your profile.

My LinkedIn training ranges from a 2-hour virtual coaching session up to a "done for you" profile rewrite and training.

I also provide LinkedIn company page set-up and management services. Visit https://www.mellermarketing.com/linkedin to learn more.

*Blog Post shared from Meller Marketing* 

Why Join the Chamber?
By: Ashley Edwards, Director of Marketing & Communications

Chambers of Commerce are stronger than ever. By joining, you get member-only, perks, exclusive advertising and networking opportunities, and a whole lot of exposure for yourself and your organization.

Small businesses represent the largest segment by number of most local chamber membership rolls. Results in the research study by The Shapiro Group, Inc. and Market Street indicate the impact of local chamber membership on small businesses is very powerful. If a consumer knows a small business is a member of its local chamber, the business enjoys a 44 percent increase in its consumer favor-ability rating, a 51 percent increase in consumer awareness, a 57 percent increase in its local reputation and a 63 percent increase in the likelihood that consumers will patronize the business in the future. (Source: American Business Magazine)

Research indicates that chamber membership stimulates business-to-business commerce in the local community. Other businesses in town are more likely to do business with you and your company if you are a member of the local chamber. Because a major part of a small business typically comes from business-to-business services, it is essential to maintain a positive standing within the local business community. 
(Source: American Business Magazine)

There is one important thing to know, it takes time! Time for a business to establish its image and reputation in the community. People like doing business with people that they trust, and trust must be earned. 

Here are list of the top reasons that you should join the Chamber:

1. Networking: It's not just who you know, it's who others know. Networking is a powerful tool to grow your business and professional network. To check out our networking and BRAG groups click here. 
2. Visibility: Stand out and get noticed in your community.
3. Credibility: Raise your reputation through membership. 
4. Discounts: Increase your purchasing power through members-only discounts and perks. To view our current member-to-member and member-to-public discounts click here. 
5. Have a Voice: Gain a say in what happens in government through the Chamber advocacy efforts. 
6. Learning: Get a competitive edge over non-members with exclusive training opportunities on a variety of hot topics. 

If you still don't think you have time join and participate in the Chamber, consider the following:

• Most consumers (59%) think that being active in the local chamber of commerce is an effective business strategy overall. It's 29% more effective, however, for communicating to consumers that a company uses good business practices and 26% more effective for communicating that a business is reputable. 
• If a company shows that it's highly involved in its local chamber (e.g. sits on the chamber board), consumers are 12% more likely to think that its products stack up better against its competition. 
• When a consumer thinks that a company's products stack up better against the competition because the company is highly involved in its local chamber of commerce, it is because he or she infers that the company is trustworthy, involved in the community and is an industry leader. 
• When consumers know that a restaurant franchise is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 40% more likely to eat at the franchise in the next few months. 
• When consumers know that an insurance company is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 43% more likely to consider buying insurance from it. 

Why waste any more time? Join the Chamber today and be a part of our growing business community. 
Contact Susan Burtka about new membership and what benefits may be important to you.
586.731.5400 x 15 or sburkta@shrcci.com. 

Maximize the Use of Your Member Portal
By: Ashley Edwards, Director of Marketing & Communications, SHRCCI

There are many benefits to using your member portal on the Chamber website, lately I have been fielding questions on how to add a community event and how to update coupons on the website, so I figured I could put together a quick refresher on how to utilize ALL there is too offer on the member portal. 

​How do I log into my Member Portal?
How do I change my username and password?
Once you have successfully logged into your portal, your "home page" will appear (below for example):

Under the "Quick Links" on the right hand side, click on the "Change Username/Password" link. From there, you can input your new username and password.

** Please note that if you have forgotten it all together, you will need to call the office so we can send you a reset link to update your account information.**
***Since this is the same username and password for your entire company, make sure you share the information with your employees and co-workers that attend Chamber events!***
​
How do I update my contact information?
It's important to keep your listing as up-to-date as possible. This information shows on your listing in the directory. So if you get a new address, phone number, website or contact person, we want to have the most accurate information for your business so potential clients and customers can find you! 

From the "Members Only Home Page", click on "Update Your Contact Information" under the "Quick Links" on the right hand side, There are many things you can do from here:

• Update your employee list which includes their names, emails, titles, whether they receive communication from us, and you can also update your main contact. 
• If you click on "Edit My Profile", you can edit your businesses "General Information": Your company name, address, phone number, email address, and website. 
• Under the "Directory Listing" tab on the left, you can update and edit your categories, keywords and primary listing. This is EXTREMELY important because this is how the public can find you on our website!
• You can also list your social media accounts under this tab! Copy and paste direct links to your businesses Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Pinterest, YouTube, Instagram, and more! This will help other Chamber members, potential clients and customers find you on the web and follow you in the social media world! 

What else can I do in my Member Portal?
Aside from updating your username and password, and keeping your contact information up to date, you can pay invoices by clicking on "Pay Your Bills," you can measure your Return on Investment by running your Referral Report, you can view the most current Membership List alphabetically (this exports as a PDF ~75 pages, it may take a while to download). You can add your Member-to-Member and Member-to-Public coupons and discounts, and you can also submit an event to our community calendar. 

Please keep in mind that any updates you make to your profile, coupons, events, job bank, etc. come to use for approval BEFORE it is posted on the website. So don't panic if you don't see it showing up on the website right away. 

FAQ's:
Did I register for that Chamber Event?
If you are logged into your member portal, head to the page that is titled "Members Only Home", there will be a bold "My Events." If you have registered for an event, it will display the Event Title, the item purchased
(admissions or sponsorship), the quantity purchased, and the amount you paid. If the event you are looking for isn't displaying, you have not yet registered for that event. 

Job Bank 
Is your company or place of business hiring? Post the job description in our job bank, another exclusive FREE benefit to Chamber members.
How to Post a Job:

• Under the "News and Media" tab at the top of the website, drop down to the "Job Bank." 
• Under employers column, click on "Post a job, now!" 
• If you aren't logged into your Member Portal, it will prompt you to do so now.
• Fill out the form as best as you can and click "submit" at the bottom. The form will be sent to a staff member for approval and you should see your job post within 24 hours.
  
  

How to Submit an Event to the Community Calendar

• ​Head to the "Events Tab" on the website, under "Community Events" a "Submit an Event" tab will appear. After you click this link, please fill out the form accordingly. 
• This will be submitted to me, Ashley Edwards, and I will review and approve the community event within 24 hours of submission. (If over the weekend, please be patient, I will approve once I am in the office on Monday). 

How do I register for an upcoming Chamber Event?

• At the top of our website, hover your mouse over the "Events" tab and click on "Chamber Events."
• Find the event you wish to register for and click on it. This will direct you to a more detailed event page with location, time, and sponsor information. 
• Click on the green "Register" button at the bottom of the event. 
• Select the item you wish to purchase and enter the quantity (sometimes there is exclusive Member pricing for events, if you are not logged in, it will prompt you to do so before those prices are available).
• Input your information (First and Last name, organization, address, email, phone number), enter your credit card information and billing address, and then let us know who is attending this event. (This step is important for check-in purposes!
• Once you click Submit Registration, you will be redirected to a confirmation page with the details of your registration. You will also receive a confirmation email right away that can be used as a receipt for your records. If you were not re-directed to a confirmation page or didn't receive the registration email, you registration may have not gone through. If you experience any difficulty registering for an event, please call the office at 586.731.5400 and we will gladly help you out. 

I hope that this blog post is a helpful a refresher and a great tool for you to use to get the most out of your Chamber Membership. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at 586.731.5400 x 13 or email.