| Are You Ready for Your Next Dose of Referral Institute? | |
By Annette Sellers, director of sales
In the July Referral Institute class, Victoria spoke about building strong relationships and provided Chamber members with relationship-building tools, including:
- Visibility - the ability to have you and your business recognized by other members of the Chamber through effective commercials and word of mouth.
- Credibility - the relationship that comes from the exchange of business guided by good service and testimonials.
- Profitability - the revenue realized after visibility and credibility are established.
One of the biggest challenges Victoria put out to those in attendance in the form of "homework" was to bring a friend from your referral base to the next Referral Institute. By expanding the knowledge in your referral base, you build on the credibility of your business. Do you know who you will be inviting to the next class?
We asked several members for their feedback following the first Referral Institute. Kelly Schager from The Sign Guys said, "The Referral Institute is absolutely, positively necessary for successful outlook on your business and personal relationships. Get out of your box and learn a new, effective way to deliver your business. It's not about you, it's all about how you can be of service to others." Another member commented, "I am excited about the coming events and feel this is such a great opportunity that I made a long list of folks to invite! Thank you for helping to make this happen for all of us, it is fabulous." Do not miss the opportunity and excitement that everyone is talking about! The second class, entitled Creating Positive Word of Mouth, is scheduled for Wednesday, October 20th from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Registration, a continental breakfast and networking will begin at 7:30a.m. Learn how you can build a strong reputation within the Chamber and the Gilbert community. Understand how to effectively make word-of-mouth marketing work for your business. Seating is limited! Invite your referral partner now and register online to save a seat for the two of you. |
| Chamber Seeks Members To Serve as Mentors to Others | |
By Sarah Watts, executive assistant
The Chamber is looking for business professionals in a variety of industries who are willing to serve as mentors to other member businesses. The Chamber's new mentoring program will pair members looking for guidance with member mentors who have the experience and dedication to lead them in areas including marketing, accounting, and more. "The purpose of this program is to provide an opportunity for Chamber members with specific business issues to take advantage of the expertise available to them within the Chamber," said Kari Cluff of SRP and Chairwoman of the Mentoring Committee. "I would expect the mentors to find just as much satisfaction and development during this process as those they are mentoring." Mentors will meet with their mentee at least once each month to identify issues and develop an action plan. To request a mentor/mentee application or for more information, contact Grace at (480) 926-6027 or grace@gilbertchamber.com. |
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Chamber Launches Fourth Referral, Leads Club | |
By Sarah Watts, executive assistant
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce has started its fourth leads group - a popular weekly networking program that provides industry exclusivity among group members and works to develop leads and lasting relationships between Gilbert businesses. The new group began meeting September 22nd and will continue to meet each Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Group members will focus their effort on generating leads for one another and giving back to the community. "Chamber Leads Group members are an ambitious and enthusiastic group of people," said Gayle Schmidt, owner of Buffalo Wild Wings on Elliot Road in Gilbert and host of the Chamber's Thursday group. "Everyone is dedicated to helping each other make their businesses grow." This new group currently has about 18 businesses enrolled and each of the Chamber's leads groups are capped at 35 participants. Members adhere to weekly meeting attendance policy to continue participation. "In certain industries, there is a wait list to join a leads group," said Annette Sellers, director of sales. "Participating members see so much success that they encourage high standards for attendance." According to Sellers, there is availability for representation by industries including apparel, automotive, cleaning services/janitorial, computer, florist, landscape, plumbing, pool, printer, storage and many others. A Chamber membership is required to participate in these networking groups. For more information on joining a leads club or Chamber membership, contact Annette Sellers at (480) 926-6020 or e-mail Annette@gilbertchamber.com. |
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Gilbert Leadership Seeking Donations, Sponsors | |
By Adrianne Lynch, technology director
 The Gilbert Leadership program has enjoyed considerable growth which, in recent years, has resulted in more program applicants than openings. All participants who enter the program either live or work in the Town of Gilbert.
Our graduates become involved in numerous community activities, including Gilbert Town Council, Gilbert Fine Arts, Gilbert Community Action Network, community school district and many other church and civic organizations.
Gilbert Leadership is currently seeking sponsors for the upcoming year. Although various sponsorship levels are available, Gilbert Leadership appreciates all donations. Your support will assist with various issue days and will help ensure a successful leadership program and the further development of our community's current and future leaders.
Please contact Adrianne at (480) 570-0600 or visit www.gilbertleadership.com for more information about our program and sponsorship packages.
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Protecting the Right of Secret Ballot a Top Priority for Local Chambers | |
By Kathy Tilque, president and CEO
We cannot stress enough the importance of getting your employees out to vote - of particular importance is to constitutionally protect the right of a secret ballot when it pertains to employee- representation elections. We cannot afford apathy regarding support for this issue; not voting is truly an opposition vote in this case. Those trying to eliminate this basic right of your employees, and you as a business owner, are well organized and will get people out to vote.
The East Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance has evaluated the numerous ballot issues as to how they impact the business community. Please reference this easy-to-use chart of our recommended positions and share with your employees.
Click here for a complete voter's guide, including complete descriptions of these propositions. |
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The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce Endorses These District 22 Candidates: | |
Andy Biggs
Representatives:
Eddie Farnsworth Steve Urie |
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Adopt a Homebound Senior This Holiday Season | |
By Sarah Watts, executive assistant
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce is asking you to adopt a senior again this holiday season. The program, benefiting homebound seniors and disabled who are served by the Gilbert Senior Center, has received overwhelming support since its inception two years ago. The average cost of a senior wish list is $25 and may include a number of needed items. Monetary donations are also appreciated. To adopt a senior or for more information, contact Sarah at (480) 892-0056, ext. 104 or by e-mail at sarah@gilbertchamber.com. |
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Chamber Recognizes Community Leaders at Upcoming Excellence Awards | |
By Marty Tomljenovic, VP of special events
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Gilbert Public Schools, The Gilbert Republic, Higley Unified School District, the Town of Gilbert and Chandler-Gilbert Community College, will honor outstanding businesses and individuals at the 2010 Gilbert Community Excellence Awards on November 5th. The following awards will be presented on behalf of the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce: The Leon Uhlhorn Chairman's Award will be presented to Anthony Miles, owner of 4th Wall Productions. Anthony has single-handedly taken members' presence on the Chamber's website to a new, exciting, professional level. He has donated his services to record member commercials as part of the Chamber's new online messaging program spreading the word about businesses and their engagement with the Chamber and their community. The Spirit of Business Award will be presented to San Tan Ford. General Manager Tim Hovik and his team at San Tan Ford place an emphasis on the importance of giving back to the community. They have committed sponsorship money to the Chamber's holiday fundraiser benefiting the Boys and Girls Club of Gilbert as well as the 2011 Scholars Golf Tournament, an event that raises scholarship funds for local high school seniors. The Spirit of Business Leader Award will be presented to Joan Krueger of Jim Hayden and Associates as she exemplifies the definition of an engaged resident and business woman. After four years of service on the Town Council, Joan has become even further committed to helping her community by serving on the General Plan Steering Committee, the CAN Board, Fresh Start Women's Foundation East Valley Executive Council , CHW East Valley Foundation, the Chamber's Public Policy and What Women Want . . . In Business committees, Gilbert Sister Cities Board, the Gilbert Historical Museum's marketing committee and at her church. Sponsored by APS, the 15th Annual Gilbert Community Excellence Awards will be held on Friday November 5, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Trilogy Power Ranch. General admission is $50 per individual or $400 for a table of ten. To purchase a ticket or for additional information, contact Marty at (480) 926-6003 or click here. |
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Are You and Your Employees Safe from Hazardous Materials? |
We care about your safety in the workplace! Join us for a FREE safety seminar to review workplace hazardous materials and your safety communication plan.
Send your employees to review important issues, including: What is considered hazardous material; How do employees know what is hazardous; What important terms should employees know; How should hazardous materials be labeled; How should spills and disposals be handled, and; How can employees protect themselves from harm?
Thursday, October 21st
9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
General admission-Free
Presented by:
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| Chamber Member Shout Out! | |
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce recognizes the following businesses for their contribution of door prizes or catering last month:
Arizona Bank & Trust
Banner Gateway Medical Center
Bed Mart
Breugger's Bagels
Buffalo Wild Wings
Fieldhouse Restaurant & Sports Bar
Grease Monkey
Independent Newspapers
International Minute Press of Gilbert
LaVie Nail & Spa
M&I Bank
Parkway Bank
Radisson Fort McDowell Resort & Casino
Sal's Gilbert Pizza
San Tan Ford
Town of Gilbert Staff
TruWest Credit Union
Udder Delights
Wildflower bread company
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Mission: The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce serves as the business advocate to strengthen the business climate in Gilbert.
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit, membership-based organization with more than 600 members ranging from home-based businesses to large corporations. To learn more about or join the Chamber, please contact (480) 892-0056 or visit www.gilbertaz.com. | |
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Gayle Schmidt posed with Big Red last month at the Evening Edition Networking Event, sponsored by San Tan Ford. |
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The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce has teamed up with TNT Shredding to help protect your identity. Having your sensitive documents shredded will keep your personal information out of the wrong hands.
Saturday, Oct. 2nd
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
119 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 101, Gilbert
Shredding - $5/box (10"x12"x15")
Boxes onsite for the purpose of measurement. |
Evening Edition Networking Event | |
View the products and services of more than 150 exhibitors, meet new business contacts and hear from guest speaker Victoria Trafton of Referral Institute.
Wednesday, October 6th
2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Mesa Convention Center - Centennial Hall
201 N. Center Street, Mesa
General Admission - Free
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Early Edition Networking Event | | Referral Institute |
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
Gilbert Insurance Group
Maddy's Pool Supply & Service
MAX Solutions
Rayhons Financial Solutions
The IT Workshop
Villa Siena
Don't miss out on this exclusive educational program and networking event. This workshop will focus on creating positive word-of-mouth and making it work for you!
7:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Villa Siena
890 W. Elliot Road, Gilbert
General Admission - call (480) 926-6020
Chamber Member Price - $10
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Luncheon Event | |
This important luncheon will feature guest speakers from the non-profit Fresh Start Women's Foundation. Women who have been through the program will share their struggles and successes. Please bring gently-used clothing to benefit FSWF.
Tuesday, October 26th
11:15 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Brunswick Zone Gilbert
1160 S. Gilbert Rd. Gilbert
General Admission - $35
Chamber Member Price - $20
Includes Lunch
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| Chairman's Express |  |
The following members are recognized for their continued support and contributions to the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce:
Banner Gateway
Medical Center
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
SRP |
| Premier Members |
APS
Banner Gateway
Medical Center
East Valley Tribune
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
Thorobred Chevrolet
Town of Gilbert
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| Website Referrals |
Listings Displayed in the Directory
BASC Expertise
Capriotti's Sandwich Shop
Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix-Gilbert
Hyatt Place Phoenix / Gilbert
Joe's Farm Grill
Kelly Reynolds
License 2 Kill
RE/MAX Mosaic Properties
Riggs Ellsworth & Porter
SanTan Elegante and Legado Hotel
Top Sponsor Views
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
Employee Benefit Exchange Corp.
Gilbert Insurance Group
Maddy's Pool Supply & Service
MAX Solutions, PLLC.
Rayhons Financial Solutions / ING Financial Partners
San Tan Ford
SCF Arizona
The I.T. Workshop, LLC.
TruWest Credit Union
Top Website Views
Arizona Golf Resort
BASC Expertise
Big League Dreams Gilbert
Capriotti's Sandwich Shop
Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix-Gilbert
Hyatt Place Phoenix / Gilbert
License 2 Kill
RE/MAX Mosaic Properties
SanTan Elegante and Legado Hotel
SanTan Village
Top Map Views
A.T. Still University
ABBA Health Plans
Arizona Golf Resort
BASC Expertise
Capriotti's Sandwich Shop
Ralph Willett, CPA
RE/MAX Mosaic Properties
Riggs Ellsworth & Porter
The Great Taste of Chicago
Wells Fargo Bank
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| You Say It Best! | | |
"Within our first week of membership with the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, we received a call from someone who found us on the Chamber's website!"
Angela Tauscher
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| Membership Anniversaries | |
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1-5 YEARS
A.L. Russell & Associates, Business & Medical Practice Coaching
American Cancer Society
Big League Dreams Gilbert
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Gilbert Road Self Storage
Humana
Integrity Fleet Service, LLC
Lil' Einstein's Preschool
LKS Painting, LLC
One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating
Padgett Business Services
Phoenix Children's Academy
Precision Dental
Seville Family Dentistry
The Edge @ Lyons Gate
Udder Delights
Unicon, INC.
Wells Fargo Bank - Power Road
6-10 YEARS
Academy of Etiquette
California Wire Cloth, Inc.
11-15 YEARS
Arizona State University, Polytechnic Campus
Barnes Fine Jewelers
State Farm Insurance - K. Kiernan
16-20 YEARS
East Valley Tribune
Morrison Ranch, Inc.
Orange-Sol Blending & Packaging, Inc.
21+ YEARS
Gilbert Dental Center
Gilbert Public Schools
Norwood Furniture
Sam's Club - Gilbert Road
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| Go Green! Tip of the Month | |
Reduce your carbon footprint! Leaving your car at home twice a week can cut greenhouse gas emissions by 1,600 pounds per year. Save up errands and shopping trips so you need to drive fewer times. If you commute to work, ask if you can work from home at least some days, and you'll reduce air pollution and traffic congestion - and save money. |
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