1 Quick Poll Results: New Member Orientations105 responses; 11% response rate* Sent to NAMD Division members Highlights: 71% of new member orientations are stand-alone meetings 35% of chambers host these quarterly; 31% monthly 44% last an hour; 40% last 1 – 1.5 hours 58% include Board Members or Committee Chairs *Results not statistically valid. Provided for informational/educational purposes only. Conducted March 2004.

2 Is the new member orientation (check all that apply)...

3 How often do you hold new member orientations?

4 Who runs them/leads them? (check all that apply)

5 Are your Board President / Directors and Committee Chairs involved in your orientation?

6 How long is your new member orientation?

7 Please describe your new member orientation.basic overview of the chamber and what we do. 1 hour + meeting at chamber offices. PowerPoint preseantion done by COO and/or Member Services staff member on chamber programs/benefits. Networking built into event for new members. Also include new key staff from other members as they are identified. Welcome by CEO. New members introduce themselves and their business - draw for door prizes and photo to go in newsletter. Into to information. Tour of building to show members where and how to use benefits. Back to Boardroom for networking with each other Reception, welcome, self introductions, overview of Chamber activities and direct benefits, current community involvement of Chamber in community Allow members to introduce themselves and meet face to face with Ambassadors and leadership. Review presentation that highlights all of the major programs and benefits of The Chamber.

8 Please describe your new member orientation.All present have the opportunity to stand and do a 60 second commercial on their business. The membership director conducts introductions and gives a brief overview of the Chamber and its programs, events, services and opportunities. After this portion of the program, there is time for questions from new members and feedback from current members. morning continental breakfast round table meeting new members introduce their company then staff does the same describing their individual departments Chairman speaks, President Speaks, Director of membership speaks. All guest intro company, all involved in open Q + A Power Point presentation followed by facility tour We have a brief intro by Pres. then go around the room in a circle and do a "did you know" segment. example: Hi, I am Mary Smith, president of ABC company...Did you know ABC company produces the hermetic seals that are used by NASA in their space suits. It is a play on the 30 second elevator commercial idea continues to move around the room. When we come to someone that is a chair or volunteer in any capacity they do their intro and then say something about their chamber role and what they get out of it.

9 Please describe your new member orientation.It is a Member Briefing Breakfast. Existing members also are encouraged to attend to learn what is new at the Chamber. Often, existing companies send new employees to get to know us. Attendees and staff sit around our conference room table. Attendees tell the Chamber what they want from their membership and what they will expect in the future. Staff describe their responsibilities and how they assist members. It is very casual but it helps us to know if we are addressing the issues important to our members. very brief, gift bag given, tour of office 12:00-12:15; 30-sec intro of those present, 12:15-12:30; 15 min PowerPoint talking about ROI through 1) Networking, 2)Services, 3)Political voice opportunities. 12:30-12:45 Committee chairs describing current projects, encouraging new volunteers. 12:45--1:00 Networking (many stay until 1:30) Still in development stage Reception and meeting. Informal networking event Luncheon with introductions to and of new members and their businesses We usually conduct new member orientation as part of our member focus groups. This begins the network building process of bringing the new member into contact with long-term members. We have a gift basket we give each new member which contains a business card holder with the cards of each our board members and ambassadors plus "freebies" from any member wanting to put things into the baskets. We review chamber programs and services and our by-laws by which we operate. As part of the focus group session, new members are part of the mini-SWOT we conduct. This way we get information on what is happening in their businesses and what they perceive to be happening in the community as well as how they believe the chamber can help with these issues.

10 Please describe your new member orientation.The CEO, membership director and membership sales person is present to welcome the new members. There are refreshments. Everyone introduces themselves and gives their biggest business issues and why they joined the chamber. The CEO and membership director gives highlights of top programs and products--sometimes tailoring the remarks to respond to the new members needs expressed. It's an opportunity to get to know each other one-on-one. After the "formal" part of the meeting, members network, exchange business cards, etc. Everyone attending gets a list of all who attended with contact information. We also draw a name of someone who was there to be featured in our monthly publication. PowerPoint presentation on the organization & Senior staff making presentation on each of their areas We just changed to an hour program at the office. We created a staff video last year which we incorporate into the program. Each staff member speaks and then we ask the volunteer ambassadors to speak and then we ask each new member to tell us about their business Introductions by each attendee, with time to describe their business, and what they expect out of their chamber membership; review of chamber staff, benefits, services, committees and other volunteer opportunities, addressing specific expectations outlined in the introductions; question and answer period ending with tour of chamber facilities

11 Please describe your new member orientation.Open with attendees standing up & introducing themselves, follow with a Power Pt presentation given by staff on the Chamber & end with Q&A Our program is called Keys to the chamber, and we do a PowerPoint on how to use the Key elements of the chamber, what programs we offer, and also gives new members the opportunity to network. We also use this program as a means of recruitment. Chamber Overview by CEO, Ambassadors present info on Programs (focusing on current ones), Services, and Involvement (Events & Committees), Q & A Business After Hours - Run video of Chamber Services & Benefits or Committee Meetings briefing. We have two fantastic Directors who host our monthly orientation program called "Jump Start." During the first half of the program we conduct networking exercises; afterwards, we have a new member spotlight; committee update; review upcoming events and end with special announcements. It is a sponsored event. Our members love this program! Usually is a breakfast program where we outline Chamber programs and services and answer any questions the new members have about how to get the most from their membership. Lunch at the chamber. Video of chamber activities Volunteer testimonies Getting to know you game - card exchange receive free tickets to upcoming events. Presented an overview of how the chamber works for them and what they can expect.

12 Please describe your new member orientation.Brief meet and greet for 20 minutes, 1 hour of program presentations, 10 minutes of Q&A. We started a monthly New Member Orientation luncheon last spring, changed the name to Executive Briefing last fall and changed the schedule to once every two months this winter. Typically, five to 10 new members attend out of the 20 or so new members who joined the Chamber every couple of months. Our orientation agenda follows the five points on our mission statement (Networking and Referral, Business Education, Business Promotion, Building Leadership and Governmental Affairs) and how our programs, services and events relate to one or more goal in our mission statement. We discuss the reason/s why they (and others) joined the Chamber, and try to better align their "expectations" with our "opportunities." The orientation also provides new members with a peer group to connect with at Chamber events. We invite the new members to our office for free wine, appetizers. Intro by CEO and board president, brief description of programs and opportunities from each staff member, brief talk from Ambassador president, then each new member is asked to introduce themselves and their business - then back to socializing. Introductions around the room - welcome by pres. and Chairman - staff describes how their areas of responsibility can be used by the members - a couple of member volunteers speak about how they used the Chamber - questions & answers.

13 Please describe your new member orientation.I did one new member orientation when I came here four years ago. It took a lot of time to get the people to show up and several reminders about the meeting. I do not enjoy public speaking and that combined with historically poor attendance, I decided to personally meet with anyone who is interested in the Chamber and give them a quick Chamber 101 course that way. Maybe it's not the best way, but I get to know them and they get to know me. And if they want to get more involved, then they call me and I try to point them in a direction that they want to go. It is a chance for all of our members to meet the new members- they get to give a 3 minute commercial on their company. In turn, we explain how to get the most out of their membership dollars- by participating in events, joining various committees, and showing up at the networking after hours. Orientation is done when the member joins. It is held either at the members business or at the Chamber office. All benefits are reviewed. Our New Member Showcase & Orientations are held from 7:30 to 8:30 am. All current members are invited to attend. Our President opens the meeting and introduces the Chairman of the Board to welcome everyone and encourage them to get involved. We go around the room and everyone stands up and introduces themselves and tells a little bit about what they do. Then afterwards current members visit tables around the perimeter of the room with items displayed by the new members to see what products and services they offer.

14 Please describe your new member orientation.We do personal one on one orientations with each member when they join, at their discretion. We also have a cocktail reception annually for our new members, board members, ambassadors and non dues benefit partners. It is a formal PowerPoint presentation introducing staff, board, core strategies, committees, and benefits. An accompanying guide is distributed as well. Led by our CEO, several other staff members give a brief overview of programs, value added programs, membership benefits, web site, and communication opportunities. Ambassadors attend and board members are also invited. Breakfast"Chamber 101" program with all committee chairs attending and each one talking about opportunities to get involved, board directors and membership manager sharing activities of the Chamber. Personal visits from the Ambassadors with a checklist for member services and benefits. A 45-minute overview of the chamber including intros of committee members present and the activities of the chamber. It is followed by a 90-minute power networking session. The membership department employees give an overview of our 6 core strategy areas. Usually a SBDC counselor attends, an Ambassador and a benefit provider representative.

15 Please describe your new member orientation.Membership director reviews what is currently going on at the chamber and encourages involvement. President reviews the structure and mission of the chamber. Each new member is then allowed to give a 30 second commercial about themselves. Monthly luncheon program - we provide an overview of chamber programs and services and ask new members to develop a plan to utilize their chamber membership that best meets their needs. All members present introduce themselves to the group. Ambassadors as well as members that we have not seen in some time are invited to attend. Attendance is limited to 30. Each quarter we invite new members to a New Member Welcome held at the Chamber office. We provide light hors d'ouerves and invite only new members, board members, membership development committee members and staff to attend. The first 20 minutes or so the Chamber Board Chairman, Chamber President and Director of Member Services talk about the Chamber, the role of the board, impact the Chamber makes on the community and the various membership benefits. The remaining hour is for new members to give a 3-4 minute presentation about their business to those in attendance. Business cards, brochures, table top displays are all encouraged.

16 Please describe your new member orientation.We stopped calling it "Member Orientation" and started calling it "Member Briefing". We invite existing members (three months before their investment is due) and new members. We have more existing members showing up now that we have changed the name. 7:30-8:30 am, 3rd Tuesday of each quarter. Complimentary continental breakfast served. New members are given packet consisting of organizational chart, staff contact listing, calendar of events, advertising opportunities, involvement opportunities, copy of articles from "member news" page on website to encourage submission of articles. President welcomes new members and asks them to introduce themselves. President discusses chamber philosophy, mission, growth, important issues at the time. Staff introduces themselves and job description. Networking. Orientation incorporated with an "after hours Mixer" includes introduction of new members with press exposure in local paper. CEO welcomes. Self intros, pass around business cards. CEO provides overview and covers advocacy and economic development. Staff covers opportunities to maximize investment. Ambassador representative discusses ways to get involved.

17 Please describe your new member orientation.Target mailing are new members within their first 90 days. Our marketing team coordinates the meeting with our President and Vice Chair (volunteer) of Membership Services. There is a PowerPoint highlighting the various departments and programs. I will go over membership benefits, etc. They are from 8 - 9:30 in the morning. Refreshments are provided with time up front and afterwards for networking. Each attendee may give a 30 second or less commercial. Each attendee also receives a coupon book valued at $691. Must attend to receive this. This format works well for us and we average around 55 at each meeting. 1. Welcome & introductions 2. Executive Director 3. Economic Development 4. Membership & Services. 5. Overview of Chamber. 6. New members discuss their business & why they want to join the chamber Discussion and questions. Review of the history, benefits, opportunities at our Chamber. Meet and greet with key staff and volunteers. We also have a great Power point presentation during the event Executive Director welcomes and introduces our Board President, Staff members describe their programs and opportunities, then members give "One Minute of Me" about their business. We usually have members.

18 Please describe your new member orientation.Each new member receives a new member packet. The packet contains: Chamber newsletter, networking tips, history of Brandon, Annual Calendar of Events and Programs, info on our four Leads Groups, certificate for advertising in a local newspaper, coupons for future chamber events, member-to-member discount form, checklist for getting involved in events, advertising rates in the phone book, newsletter and internet site. We briefly review these items and then tour the building and introduce the staff. We have a sponsor for this, which enables us to provide snacks and beverage. This is a small networking luncheon with a PowerPoint presentation demonstrating the benefits of membership. a morning reception with literature and sign-up sheets for participation opportunities available Free lunch at a prestigious club. Members briefly introduce themselves and membership director encourages further discussion. Extend invites to upcoming "Navigating your Chamber" seminar. Reception with food and drink highlighting members. Orientation conducted by board chair. Explanation of organization, its partner and tour of building with handouts. Self introductions; introduction by very satisfied ambassador; introduction of benefits of membership; welcome from CEO and other staff; q & a Coffee and pastries and first 15 min. of networking, then everyone present receives a packet of materials and session begins with introductions of staff and Board members and committee members present. Then member introduce themselves and tell their name and nature of their business. Staff then covers benefits in their particular area and explain how and what the Chamber is, including organizational chart, etc. Has been highly successful and very well attended.

19 Please describe your new member orientation.We don't hold an orientation event, but it is the Membership Director and sales staff responsibility to sit down individually with new members for orientation. A one-on-one meeting with the new member to discuss how we can best serve their needs, and open them/us up to other opportunities. First half hour is with hors d'oeuvres and beverages, networking. Then there is a minute presentation about the Chamber - benefits, how to take advantage of their membership, etc. We conclude with door prizes and additional networking. Coffee with the President. Special Invitations sent Usually breakfast or lunch events where we introduce the new members and review opportunities the Chamber offers for members. First a quick overview of all the chamber can do for our members, then go up to the board meeting and introduced and they are invited to stay for the meeting Informal style to encourage questions. We go through a PowerPoint to make sure we hit key points. Members fill out a form to request more information on specific items at the end. Ambassadors (3-4) attend to provide a members perspective. We tour our office and conference space and introduce members to everyone in the office (staff and members).

20 Please describe your new member orientation.New members are orientated at the time of sale. Follow up by the sales staff is part of the retention program.. and inviting them to other events. New member intro's Chamber overview Q & A It is a training institute consisting of introductions-full gamut of services, networking tips and a practice session for all attendees-15 second elevator speech Breakfast meeting with heavy emphasis on the fine points of networking Greeting by CEO or other exec if CEO is unavailable. Show ten minute video about Chamber structure, functions and benefits of membership. Individual "table meetings" wherein a representative from each of four departments (Membership, Government Affairs, Marketing and Community Affairs) visits one-at-a-time with the 6-8 people seated at each table in our conference room. The representative does an overview of his/her department and follows with a Q & A session. Very intimate and two-way. Program is followed by a mixer in our building's foyer. A long time member and volunteer is the orientation presenter. He goes through the yearly programs and events, seminars and other training, and talks about the various ways to become involved and participate; i.e.: leads groups, ambassadors club, CEO Exchange. Involves the group, invites them to ask questions of himself or of the membership staff. The group is then invited to stay for the Business After Hours event immediately following the orientation.

21 Please describe your new member orientation.Describes what the Chamber is, mission, what services we offer. How to get the most out of their membership, Leadership Program and sponsorship opportunities. An opportunity for Chamber members both new and existing to learn about the benefits and services to engage them in involvement.

22 Participating ChambersAdams County Economic Development, Inc. Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Anaheim Belton Area Chamber of Commerce Bloomsburg Area Chamber of Commerce Carthage Chamber of Commerce Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches Chamber of Commerce serving Johnson City, Jonesborough and Washington County Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce Clermont Cleveland/Bradley Darke County (OH) Denver Metro Destin FL Elmhurst (Ill.) Chamber of Commerce & Industry Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership Forward Janesville Gilroy Chamber Glastonbury Chamber of Commerce, Glastonbury, CT Greater Boerne Texas Chamber Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce Greater Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce Greater Effingham Chamber of Commerce & Industry Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce Greater Johnstown/Cambria County Chamber of Commerce, Inc.

23 Participating ChambersGreater O'Hare Association Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce Greater phoenix Greater Portsmouth, NH Chamber of Commerce Greater Riverside Chambers Greater Washington Board of Trade Greater Waterbury Chamber of Commerce Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce Greater Wilkes-Barre, PA Greece (NY) Chamber of Commerce Gtenwood Springs Hopkinsville-Christian County Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Indianapolis Kalamazoo KCK Chamber Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Las Vegas Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce (Missouri) Lenexa Kansas Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce Logan County Area Chamber of Commerce Lynchburg Regional Chamber of Commerce Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce, Saint Louis Memphis Milford CT Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce Morrisville Chamber of Commerce Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce Northern Rhode Island Ocala/Marion County Chamber of Commerce Orange County Chamber (NY)

24 Participating ChambersPaducah Area Chamber of Commerce Pasadena Chamber of Commerce Pensacola Chamber of commerce Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce Plano Rochester (NY) Business Alliance Rockford Area Saginaw County Chamber Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce Saint Paul Area Chamber Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Shawnee Chamber of Commerce South Snohomish County Southlake, Texas Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association, Inc. Summit County, Colorado Temple Chamber of Commerce   The Greater Dallas Chamber of Commerce The Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce, Inc. The Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce Toledo Area Chamber of Commerce Traverse City Area CoC Tulsa Metro Chamber Tuscarawas County Chamber of Commerce Warren County Regional Chamber of Commerce