There were lots of laughs and many Aha! moments at the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Work the Pond networking breakfast at the White Spot Sept. 13. The workshop, facilitated by the Chamber’s marketing and communications coordinator, Terri Perrin, presented concepts from the best-selling book Work the Pond: Use the Power of Positive Networking to Leap Forward in Work and Life.
“I thoroughly enjoyed this workshop,” said Anita Brassard, executive director of Y.A.N.A. “Terri’s presentation was insightful and her delivery was refreshing. It was a wonderful way to start my day.”
“Terri certainly did a great job…she was very engaging and entertaining,” added Nina Anderson of BC Island Homes. “I was so immersed in the discussion that I left without having written a single note in my notebook.”
The event was a sell-out.
For those who missed the breakfast meeting, don’t despair. You have another chance to learn how to ‘leap forward in work and life’ at a second Work the Pond workshop scheduled for 7– 9 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 27, also at the White Spot at 2299 Cliffe Ave. in Courtenay.
New material and a different menu will be provided at the second session.
“In the first workshop I talked about how people need to change their mindset about networking,” Perrin said. “Positive networking is not about making sales, it is about building trust. The second workshop will focus on the tools required to build that trust – such as writing a compelling ‘elevator speech’ and starting more engaging conversations.”
Perrin, an award-winning writer, joined the Chamber last April, bringing a wealth of marketing and business expertise to the team. As a self-employed small business owner for more than two decades, Perrin has done more than her fair share of networking. She credits her own efforts, Working the Pond and building her ‘social capital,’ to securing her current position at the Chamber — a job she says that she loves.
Work the Pond breakfasts are sponsored by Daryl Robbins, CGA and notary public. Robbins will spend five minutes talking about the financial planning and tax preparation services he and his associates provide, and giving a brief synopsis of his role as a notary public in the Comox Valley. (www.darylrobbins.ca)
Tickets to Work the Pond are $20 per session for Chamber members and $24 for non-members.
It’s the best networking deal in town as admission includes a continental breakfast, tip, tax and presentation materials. Pre-registration is required.
Be sure to wear a name tag and to bring business cards. You are also welcome to bring a door prize – it’s another great way to promote your business and yourself.
For more information call 250-334-3234 or register at www.comoxvalleychamber.com.
