Today was my first meeting with the local Chamber of Commerce. It was a small "breakfast" networking session so everyone could mingle, trade cards, and discuss what they do. It was really neat! I was so nervous before going, but felt good once I started chatting with people. I like the idea of supporting local businesses while they support me. It's a great way to meet new people, potentially get new clients, and get out of the studio. We went around the room in a circle to introduce ourselves and our businesses out loud to each other which gave me sweaty palms. In terms of networking tips: I made sure to say my name in the beginning and at the end of my little spiel--where I discussed the kind of design I do. I also made sure to mention my purpose (my tagline) which is "growth through creative strategy" while remembering to also mention my website. Whew! Hopefully it was all enough to stand out for others to remember me. I circulated a lot of cards, met wonderful people, and even have an invite for another networking group that meets once per week. Overall, my 2007 goal for expanding my client base has begun! And on a fun note, I have ordered my boxcar base and my very first plate for printing my first letterpress projects! They should be here any day now. I finally have everything I need to get started with printing. It felt like forever saving up the money I needed to get all the supplies and ink and paper. And I'm not even sure the paper is going to work! But I can only try, right? I have completed the design for the packaging for my cards and I'm very pleased with it (hope to provide a sneak peek soon). So hopefully I will have more to report regarding my letterpress fun very soon! Happy and creative Friday everyone!!!
2 comments:
Hey Megan - Let us know how the Chamber of Commerce works for your re: getting new clients. I've considered doing the same, but it is quite expensive to join in my city. I'm also not the best at networking, so I guess that's why I haven't joined up yet.
Also - good luck with the boxcar base and plates, it's super easy to get going. Took me about 10 mins to set up for my first test run with mine.
Erin
Thanks Erin!
I will be sure to keep you posted on how the Chamber works out for me. It was pricey to join, but hopefully will pay for itself in the long run (plus I can write it off). I'm curious myself to see if it will help with the client base.
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