From the President
 "When facing a difficult task, act as though it is impossible to fail. If you're going after Moby Dick, take along the tartar sauce."
 
At a time of great stress for many - with the economy uncertain, with winds of change certain to arrive after next week's election and businesses struggling to remain afloat and set new goals - we are challenged and determined to remain positive!
 
The staff at the Chamber recently attended the New England Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives meeting and one of the presentations focused on "Mind Capture" (Tony Rubleski's workshop). He stressed that all businesses face three main challenges: Attention, Time and Credibility. He stated that when marketing/selling, a person has 1-3 seconds to get someone's attention and that 'mind capture' is the ability to stand out, get attention and WIN new and repeat business.  He identified children as the best marketers: they are fearless, ask a lot of questions and are curious and open to new ideas - and suggested that we might learn from their example. Tony identified 7 marketing trends that all businesses might utilize to improve their performance and bottom line and urged us to be merchants of hope and leaders in our communities. "Good marketing and poor attitude is a recipe for disaster" - opportunities abound around us and we need to be open to new possibilities, look at the world differently and utilize various media and technology to get our message out to new venues in sharp, succinct ways. The two day meeting provided us with interesting speakers, great networking and a new vision regarding the possibilities and future for NVCC.  Look for continuing updates as we plan for the year ahead.
 
I would also like to highlight an important upcoming event: 
the "How 'Green' is Your Business?" seminar on Dec. 2nd is a breakfast event at the Four Points Sheraton on Rt. 1 in Norwood with a great panel of experts and information tables regarding energy and waste savings for your business - you won't want to miss this helpful information for business of all sizes and municipalities. Pre-registration Required Click here to Register

 
And lastly, in this month of Thanksgiving and Remembrance I would like to take a moment to thank each of you for your continued support of the Chamber. Your friendship, energy and partnerships are greatly valued and, on behalf of the staff, we wish you well in the year ahead.  We would also like to remember those who have passed away during the last year - Chamber friends, members, and our own family members. Each of these people touched us in profound ways and we are grateful for their presence and impact on our lives.  We honor and remember them at this special time.  May each of you celebrate Thanksgiving with those you love and may peace and good health reign in your homes.
 
With gratitude and best wishes,
Sue McQuaid