Lubbock Business Network March 2015 Newsletter

THE LUBBOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER

LUBBOCK BUSINESS NETWORK

Vol. 24 No. 3 March 2015 Blue Ribbon Winners Annouced by U.S. Chamber

Salute to Ag Luncheon

10 Ways to Increase Sales

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pg. 7

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Thank you to our 5-Star Sponsors!

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Lubbock Business Network

In the News this Month:

Blue Ribbon Winners Announced by U.S. Chamber....................6 Salute to Ag Luncheon...........................................................................7 Chamber 101: Pizza with the President...........................................8 Chamber University: Customer Service...........................................8 2015 Total Resource Campaign update...........................................9 10 Ways to Increase Sales................................................................... 10

A Message from the Chamber

S ince 1913, the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce’s mission of strengthening, promoting and serving its member businesses has positively benefitted the entire region and local quality of life.

As the largest business federation on the South Plains, the Chamber represents almost 2,200 members who employ approximately 73,000 workers, and account for around $900 million in economic impact in Lubbock and West Texas. This is accomplished without the use of tax dollars.

Each day, the Chamber strengthens, promotes and serves its member businesses through numerous programs and events.

The Chamber advocates on local, state and federal levels and offers diverse programs for both large and small as well as minority-owned businesses.

Share Your News!

To submit an article about your business, to purchase Lubbock Business Network sponsorships, contact the Chamber’s Communications and Marketing Division at (806) 761-7000.

Click here to visit the videos page on our website. This will keep you up to date with our latest ribbon cuttings, groundbreakings and testimonials.

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2015 Board of Directors Executive Committee Chairman

Jay Jacobus, Scarborough Specialties, Inc. Chairwoman-Elect

Beth Bridges, South Plains Mall Immediate Past Chairwoman

Alona Beesinger, Suddenlink Treasurer

Diannah Tatum, Sanford & Tatum Insurance Agency Secretary

Eddie McBride, Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Vice Chairman, Business Development

Brice Foster, City Bank Vice Chairman, Communications & Marketing

Scott Fagin, First United Bank Vice Chairman, Government & Community Relations

David Park, Atmos Energy Vice Chairman, Leadership

Gabe Vitela, Twisted Root Burger Co. Vice Chairman, Membership & Investor Relations

Jessie Mendoza, FirstBank & Trust

Board of Directors Carmen Aguirre, Children’s Advocacy Center of the South Plains Sharon Hyde Bass, Volunteer Center Lubbock Ron Betenbough, Betenbough Homes Michael Calvillo, Michael Calvillo Bail Bonds Renee Gonzales Davis, Alderson Enterprises/Mercedes-Benz Linda Gaither, WestMark Realtors-Gaither/Ratcliff Jeff Horn, Benchmark Business Solutions Clayton Isom, The Isom Group Chris James, United Supermarkets Brent King, UMC Health System Chris Lonngren, Schlotzsky’s Dave Marcinkowski, Madera Companies Kathy Oaks, American Cancer Society Richard Parks, Covenant Health Bill Patton, Robinson, Johnston & Patton, CPAs Tony Pena, FirstCapital Bank L. Timothy Perrin, Lubbock Christian University Cathy Pope, StarCare Specialty Health System Cory Powell, TTU Mentor Tech Dr. Berhl Robertson, Lubbock Independent School District Frank Silvas, AFLAC-Frank Silvas Polly Vann, V-tech Environmental Services Dr. David Vroonland, Frenship Independent School District Chuck Walker, FirstCare Health Plans Connie Wharton, Consultant

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Lubbock Business Network

Upcoming Events March 3 Young Professionals First Tuesday Networking hosted by Casey Carpet One March 10 Chamber 101: Pizza with the President March 12 Business After Hours hosted by American National Bank March 25 National Ag Day Salute to Ag Luncheon March 26 Business After Hours hosted by Ferguson Enterprises

Business After Hours

sponsored by

M arch

3 Leadership Lubbock Committee Meeting – 10:30 a.m. – LCOC

Groundbreaking: Doodle Bug Square – 12:30 p.m. – 43rd & Milwaukee Young Professionals First Tuesday Networking – 5:30 p.m.

Casey Carpet One, 6000 Spur 327, Ste. 200 4 Ribbon Cutting: Multiplex Motors/Swift Lube & Oil Change – 11:30 a.m.

4013 N. Frankford New Century Leadership Committee Meeting – 1 p.m. – LCOC 5 Ag Committee Meeting – 8 a.m. – LCOC

Ribbon Cutting: American Cancer Society’s - Colon Cancer Awareness

Month kickoff – 10:30 a.m. – 3513 10th St. Groundbreaking: Southwest Aqua Sports – 2 p.m. – 3909 N. Frankford Expo Exhibitor Training – 3 p.m. – San Jacinto Room, 2nd Floor

Wells Fargo Center, 1500 Broadway 6 Transportation Committee Meeting – 10:30 a.m. – LCOC Ribbon Cutting: Cowboy Chicken – 11:15 a.m. – 4415 S. Loop 289 Groundbreaking: Jorge’s Mexican Bar & Grill – 3 p.m.

82nd & Milwaukee

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10 Chamber 101: Pizza with the President – 11:30 a.m. – San Jacinto Room,

2nd Floor Wells Fargo Center, 1500 Broadway Ribbon Cutting: Tesori – 4:30 p.m. – 4401 82nd St., Ste. 1500 11 New Century Leadership: Higher Education Day – All Day Ribbon Cutting: Terracon – 11:30 a.m. – 5827 50th St Ste. 1

Ribbon Cutting: Alliance Federal Credit Union – 4:30 p.m.

2404 82nd St.

4206 19th St., Space 700 Thursday, March 12 5:30 p.m - 7:00 p.m.

12 Ribbon Cutting: Vision Employment Group – 10:30 a.m.

2026 82nd Suite 101 Executive Committee Meeting – Noon – LCOC Community Prayer Luncheon Committee Meeting – 4 p.m. – LCOC

Ribbon Cutting: American National Bank – 5:15 p.m.

4206 19th Street, Space #700 Business After Hours hosted by American National Bank – 5:30 p.m.

4206 19th Street, Space #700 13 Government Relations Committee Meeting – 10:30 a.m. – LCOC 16

Business After Hours

sponsored by

Ribbon Cutting: Workforce Solutions - Youth Job Fair – 8:45 a.m.

MCM Eleganté, 801 Avenue Q

17 YPL Steering Committee Meeting – Noon – LCOC 18 Ambassador Luncheon sponsored by Legal Aid Society of Lubbock

Noon – TBA 19

Groundbreaking: Aaron Daniel Homes of West Texas – 4:30 p.m.

2009 101st

23 Golf Committee Meeting – 4 p.m. – LCOC 24 Leadership Lubbock: Lubbock 101 Day – ALL DAY 25

6002 42nd St. Thursday, March 26 5:30 p.m - 7:00 p.m.

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National Ag Day Salute to Ag Luncheon – 11:45 a.m.

Bayer Museum of Agriculture, 1121 Canyon Lake Dr. Business Expo Committee Meeting – 4 p.m. – LCOC

26 Board of Directors Meeting – 10 a.m. – TBD

Business After Hours hosted by Ferguson Enterprises – 5:30 p.m.

6002 42nd St.

*LCOC = Lubbock Chamber of Commerce

For a complete list of Chamber and member events, visit our calendar online at lubbockchamber.com/events.

Lubbock Business Network

First Tuesday Networking Tuesday, March 3 5:30 - 7:00 pm Casey Carpet One 6000 Spur 327, Ste. 200

Save the Date!

Chamber 101: Pizza with the President

March 10, 2015 11:30 a.m -1 p.m.

Join Young Professionals of Lubbock!

Applications Available Today!

Contact Amy Marquez P: (806) 761-7002 | C: (806) 317-0122 Amy.Marquez@lubbockbiz.org

Chamber Staff President/CEO Eddie McBride, IOM Executive Vice President Government & Community Relations Norma Ritz Johnson, IOM, CCE CFO & Vice President Administration Sheri Nugent, IOM Vice President Business Development Christye Weld Vice President Communications & Marketing Tammi Boozer Vice President Membership & Investor Relations Colleen Evans, IOM Leadership Director Amy Marquez Education Director Allison Cottrell Marketing Specialist Haily Assiter Event Specialist Haley Howey Government & Community Relations Specialist Stevie Poole Administrative Assistant/Office Coordinator Patsy Moffett Customer Service Representative Patricia Picon Accounting Assistant Susan Bailey Interns Jenna Holt-Day Jessica Kessler

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Lubbock Business Network

Blue Ribbon Winners Announced by U.S. Chamber The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that two current Chamber members have been named 2015 Blue Ribbon Small Business Award winners by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Abbeville Dentistry and iaCONSULTING have been named Blue Ribbon Small Business Award winners by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. These Lubbock-based companies were recognized for their success, innovation, and contributions to economic growth and free enterprise.

“While our economy still struggles to reach its full potential, small businesses like our Blue Ribbon Award winners have continued to act as examples of the resilience, ingenuity, and opportunity at work in the free enterprise system,” U.S. Chamber President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue said. “Times can be tough, but these businesses have proven that they can be too. And by taking risks, watching out for their employees, and giving back to their communities, they’ve shown that success is achievable."

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce celebrates the outstanding achievements of these award winners and notes that 15 of the 100 award recipients are from the State of Texas.

“Our Lubbock winners were selected from a record number of applicants across the nation, and each demonstrates exceptional business practices in areas including strategic planning, employee development, community involvement and

customer service,” stated Chamber Chairman Jay Jacobus. “We will join this year’s winners when they are honored at the 2015 America’s Small Business Summit in Washington, D.C., taking place June 8-10.”

On March 18th, the U.S. Chamber will announce seven regional finalists, and one will be named the DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year during the summit. The winner will be presented with a $10,000 cash prize courtesy of the U.S. Chamber.

Blue Ribbon businesses are also eligible for the Community Excellence Award, which recognizes one business that has found notable success in the eyes of its community, generously giving of its time, resources, and expertise. The winner will be decided through online public voting between Feb.19 and March 4. Vote now for your favorite Lubbock Blue Ribbon Small Business.

To learn more about America’s Small Business Summit, visit www.uschambersummit.com.

Business Expo The 2015 Business Expo will be held May 14, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center. A private networking event for exhibitors only will be held from 9-10 a.m. and a ribbon cutting will be held at 9:45 a.m. to officially kickoff the event and open the doors to the public.

This year’s theme is “Collaborative Connectivity”, developed by RD Thomas, the official advertising agency for the 2015 Business Expo. This year’s event will focus on ways local businesses and consumers connect and collaborate in order to build a healthy business climate and support for one another.

Hosted each year by the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce, the Business Expo showcases over 200 exhibitors and will welcome between 6,000-7,000 attendees throughout the day. Booths and sponsorship opportunities are still available through the Total Resource Campaign (TRC). Please call the Chamber if you would like to be contacted by a TRC volunteer to discuss sponsorship or reserve a space at the 2015 Business Expo.

New this year:

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“Expo Café”, where local restaurants will provide tastes of some of their delicacies to attendees and provide information on catering and private party options.

Seminars held throughout the day, free to the public – to help businesses hone their social media skills, make sure their business web sites are designed to increase revenue and learn how to solve common business issues and problems.

You won’t want to miss this year’s Business Expo! If you haven’t participated in the past, now is the year to consider having a booth at this very popular event.

Business Expo – where local businesses collaborate and connect!

Don’t forget - the Chamber is hosting a free seminar, “Effective Trade Show Planning”, March 5, for potential exhibitors to learn some basic tips and techniques to help exhibitors collaborate and connect with their target market at trade shows and industry meetings. This event will be held from 3-4:30 p.m. at the Wells Fargo Center, 1500 Broadway, on the second floor in the San Jacinto Room.

There is still some space available, so call

Haley Howey at (806)761-7000 or email her at haley.howey@lubbockbiz.org to reserve a seat! Attendees will be entered into a drawing for door prizes including one free space at the 2015 Business Expo in the Pedestrian Mall.

Thanks to our sponsors: Presenting:

Diamond: Chick-fil-A RD Thomas Advertising Workforce Solutions South Plains Media: Ramar Communications Platinum: Benchmark Business Solutions Lamar Outdoor Advertising Banner: Choice Media

Lubbock Business Network

Salute to Ag Luncheon The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce will host a Salute to Ag Luncheon on, Wed., March 25, at the Bayer Museum of Agriculture.

The Salute to Ag Luncheon recognizes and celebrates the abundance provided by agriculture and is held during the month of March on or around the time of National Ag Day. The Chamber’s Salute to Ag Luncheon, presented by City Bank, will feature guest speaker Texas Tech University President M. Duane Nellis, Ph.D. The serving line will begin at 11:45 a.m., with the program beginning promptly at 12 p.m.

Tickets for the luncheon are $35. Chamber members get a discounted price of $25. Reservations are required by 5 p.m. on Thurs., March 19. Register here or by calling the Chamber at (806) 761-7000.

Thanks to our sponsors: Presenting:

Diamond: BayerCrop and Science Gicon Pumps and Equipment Platinum: AgTexas Farm Credit Services Capital Farm Credit Ramar Communications Texas Agricultural Coop Trust TTU Office of the Provost

March Business of the Month: Cookie Advantage Congratulations to the March Business of the Month, Cookie Advantage. Cookie Advantage has been an active member of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce since opening their doors in January 2014.

Lisa Sheffield-Rowe, Operations and Sales Manager, of Cookie Advantage believes that being a member of the Chamber has increased their business relationships throughout the community by allowing them the opportunity to meet other business owners and employees who they may not otherwise encounter.

“It has allowed us to network and gain exposure with business that we would not typically visit with,” Rowe said.

The Chamber recently entered into a unique trade agreement with Cookie Advantage. It is now the new member sponsor for all of the new businesses that join the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce. Cookie Advantage will deliver all of the new Chamber members a tin of freshly baked cookies as a welcome gift from the Chamber.

“Everyone smiles when they see us coming with cookies and we are really enjoying getting out there and visiting with these new members,” Rowe said.

The Chamber is really excited about this sponsorship and is thrilled to be working with this company.

Outside of this new sponsorship, you will find the Cookie Advantage staff partaking in our networking events.

“We enjoy attending the Chamber social events, which allows businesses to network within a more casual and informal atmosphere outside of the office,” Rowe said.

Again, congratulations to Cookie Advantage for being selected as the March Business of the Month!

The Chamber is proud to congratulate Cookie Advantage on their March Business of the Month achievement. Cookie Advantage along with all of the other businesses of the month for 2015, will be considered for the Chamber’s Business of the Year award, in December 2015.

TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY

2015 University Career Fair The University Career Center understands the difficulties attracting new talent for your organization. We invite you to attend our University Career Fair. The fair is open to all students and alumni. Registration at www.HireRedRaiders.ttu.edu is quick and easy. Questions? Please call our office at 806-742-2210.

REGISTRATION: $150.00 April 1, 2015 | 1:00–4:00 PM | McKenzie-Merket Alumni Center

Connect w ith you r futu re employees.

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Lubbock Business Network

Chamber 101: Pizza with the President

If you are a new member of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce or a new employee of a long standing member, attending Chamber 101 is a great way to learn more about the Chamber. Not only will you learn what we do, but how you can get involved. This is also a great opportunity to grow your business network and start building relationships with other members, as well as our volunteers and Chamber staff.

The lunch is free to attend for all members and prospective members. To RSVP or for additional information, contact Haily Assiter, Marketing Specialist, at haily.assiter@lubbockbiz.org or by phone at (806) 761-7003.

Chamber University: Customer Service The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce will host a Chamber University seminar on “Customer Service� on Wed., April 1, from 8-11:30 a.m. at The Legacy Event Center.

The seminar will feature speakers from United Supermarkets and Chick-fil-A as they discuss the components of great customer service. This is a continuation of the widely popular seminar presented in 2013 and 2014 with new content for 2015.

Presenters include: Phil Pirkle, Executive Vice President of Talent Management for United Supermarkets and Brandon Mulkey, Owner/Operator of Chick-fil-A. Chamber University will also award certificates for Continuing Education Units for those interested. This seminar will award .3 hours of 1 CEU (3 out of 10 hours). Those wishing to sign up for a CEU credit, please call the Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber University is sponsored by American National Bank, United Supermarkets and Workforce Solutions South Plains.

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Chamber University was designed to address critical business topics and offer tools to navigate and thrive in the everchanging demands of the 21st century workplace.

The cost of the seminar is $70. Chamber members get a discounted price of $60. Group pricing is also available by calling the Chamber. Breakfast will be provided.

Registration is open and reservations can be made by clicking here or by calling (806) 761-7000. Changes to reservations may be made until 5 p.m. on Mon., March 30.

Sponsered by: American National Bank United Supermarkets Workforce Solutions South Plains

Lubbock Business Network

2015 Total Resource Campaign: The Greatest Hits …The Beat Goes On… The Chamber’s 2015 Total Resource Campaign (TRC) “The Beat Goes On…” kicked off with great success. Now, that the first right of refusal portion is over, the official campaign runs until April 30!

The TRC is a way for members to get involved and to help garner sponsors for Chamber events and initiatives. Contact the Chamber for more information on any upcoming opportunities.

Events are filling up quickly, so be sure to get sponsorship contracts in for those soon! All of the following are still accepting reservations and sponsorships.

Cinco de Mayo - May 5 The 2015 luncheon will feature Justice Eva Guzman, who has served at three levels of the Texas judiciary. In 2009 she was appointed to serve on the Supreme Court of Texas by Governor Rick Perry. She was elected to a full term in November 2010, when she became the first Hispanic woman elected to statewide office in Texas. Before her appointment, Justice Guzman served for almost a decade on the Houston-based Fourteenth Court of Appeals. She began her judicial service on the 309th District Court in Harris County, after an appointment by thenGovernor George W. Bush. Now in her 15th year on the bench, Justice Guzman has consistently received high marks in judicial evaluation polls.

Business Expo - May 14 Participation in the Business Expo leverages branding and marketing opportunities while benefitting from business to business networking with more than 200 exhibitors and approximately 7,000 attendees. Marketing for this event includes television, radio, newspaper and area billboards, as well as printed brochures and tickets mailed to more than 2,100 members of the Chamber. Businesses also compete for awards in nine categories including: Most Innovative, Most Fun, Best First Time Exhibitor, Best Giveaway, Best Staff, Best Dressed, Best Interpretation of the Theme, People’s Choice and Best of Show!

New this year is Expo Café, where attendees can sample from local restaurants and FREE seminars offered focused on topics such as social media, websites and small business solutions to common problems – all designed to help members learn something new that will help generate business and solve common problems.

Community Prayer Luncheon - May 7 To celebrate the National Day of Prayer, this lunch event celebrates the power of faith and prayer in our community.

Texas Tech head women’s soccer coach Tom Stone will be this year’s keynote speaker and McKenzie Walker, Christian Recording artist, is the featured entertainment at the annual event. Attendees receive lunch and a time to worship with local religious leaders along with the rest of the nation.

Looking to get your business more exposure in 2015???

We have sponsorship options in the following: Business Network Newsletter Business Directory Monday Memo Website For more information and pricing contact Haily Assiter.

806.761.7003 | haily.assiter@lubbockbiz.org.

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Lubbock Business Network

Board Member Spotlight: Bill Patton How did you get involved with the Chamber and what keeps you involved? Over 20 years ago, I first became involved with the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce as a member of our firm’s audit team. I met the longtime President of the Chamber, Mr. John Logan, and many other outstanding staff members at that time and was very impressed with the overall group efforts to better the Lubbock community. I currently make efforts to stay involved as the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce offers many diverse programs and supports decisions that I agree with for our city and region. Thanks to Mr. Eddie McBride I have the opportunity to, hopefully, go forward with this.

What is your favorite event or program of the Chamber?

I find it hard to narrow to a single event, but I really enjoy the annual Business Expo that the Chamber offers. It provides the opportunity for a huge number of businesses to gather, share their products and goals while having fun. Close to the top of my list is also the recent support of the Imagine Lubbock Together campaign as well as the health insurance program offered to Chamber members.

What are some of your other community leadership roles?

I have been most fortunate to be involved in many areas of our family’s local church life. Also, I have had the opportunity to work with the Ronald McDonald House and Big Brothers/Big

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Sisters. These programs truly reach out to young people with needs and I believe this is a great place to help out. Presently, I’m involved with the effort to revitalize the Legacy Play Village in an effort to offer a much needed face lift of that facility for families in the area.

Finish this sentence... Never again will I attempt to play any type of competitive basketball (even in the old man’s league). It takes too long to recover!

Lubbock Business Network

10 Ways to Increase Sales One of the most obvious ways to boost revenue in your business is to make more sales. Here are ten ways you can start doing that today: 1. Do You Have A Sales Strategy?

Most businesses think they have a strategy, but they don’t.

Now is a good time to develop one. You need to consider who your ideal customer is and what are the products and services that provide the best return for you.

The sales strategy should be a brief onepage roadmap that encapsulates: • What you want to sell • Who you are going to sell to • Where you are going to sell • How you are going to sell • When you are going to sell Keep it simple and keep referring back to it.

2. Are You Missing Opportunities?

You could best sum this approach up as ‘preach to the converted’. Your current customers are likely an excellent source for new business. You may have a product or service that they may not know about that might suit their business. Essentially, the first port of call should be the clients that have already bought from your business.

3. Back to Basics Chambers mentor businesses that have sales issues all of the time. Oftentimes the problem is businesses have veered from their target market and fail to realise it.

Take an honest look at what your market is and where you are at the moment. If sales are not at a level that you would like you might need to ask yourself some tough questions such as ‘Have I focused too much on one sector of my business?’ or ‘Have I deviated from my sales strategy and forgotten about my target market?’.

The second question is quite a common question.

In struggling economies many businesses survive by ‘throwing everything at it.’ But the economy is largely picking up now. It’s time to assess

the business and get back to selling the right products to the right customers.

4. Customer is King Simon & Garfunkel knew this 45 years ago when they sang ‘Keep the Customer Satisfied’. In an age when almost anything can be bought or sold online at any time of the day or night by anyone, the need for excellent customer service has never been greater.

Some businesses have built their reputations on looking after generations of families. Your business can do that too by ensuring that staff are properly trained and that customers get consistent excellent service every time that they deal with your business.

5. The Price is Right Have you considered how your product or service is priced? What research have you carried out to make sure that it is competitively priced and that overheads and margin are factored in? It is very easy to sell too cheaply just as it is very easy to end up broke.

6. Be Ruthless What you are not selling is as important as what you are selling. Take a look at the products or services that are simply glued to the shelves and get rid of them.

Don’t be reluctant to retire certain products or services. One of the secrets to success is being able to detach yourself from the emotion of a business decision.

If something is not selling don’t stock it and don’t waste money marketing it.

your family, but never presume that your target audience does. Think about how you how can market your business. Go back to your sales strategy in point 1 and identify your ideal customers and then target them where they are.

9. Look the Part When was the last time you looked at your branding? Branding isn’t just a logo or a website. It is everything from an auto signature on an email to letterhead to company vehicles. There are more options available now to help you to get your branding right. There are countless examples of how you can carry out a brand audit online.

10. Stay in Shape Just as much as the New Year provokes people to get back in physical shape, the first quarter should also be a time when you identify training needs and areas for professional improvement.

There’s a good chance your local chamber can help you with training through networking and other learning-based events. They are also a great resource on what your community offers.

Every company needs sales to be successful. In order to do so sales and marketing strategies should be reviewed periodically to ensure they are the most effective for your business. Adjusting your tack every so often is the best way to stay on course.

7. Open Your Eyes The first quarter is a very good time to take a look at what your competitors are doing.

It is also an excellent time to look at similar businesses in different geographical areas to see how they are trading and to see if lessons can be learned.

Tip: Use events such as the Chamber networking events to meet new people and to gain market intelligence.

8. Raise Awareness You know all about your business, as does

Brian Cleary is the Chief Executive of Clonmel Chamber of Commerce, one of the largest business services organizations in Ireland. He’s also the past director of Chambers Ireland. He writes for a number of online publications and is a regular copresenter of the ‘Small Business Show’ a syndicated radio program broadcast on a number of stations throughout Ireland and available as a podcast.

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Lubbock Business Network

Chamber Leadership Division Young Professionals of Lubbock Spotlight: Ian Van Reenen Why did you choose to be a member of Young Professionals of Lubbock? I heard about YPL through a colleague and thought it would be a great way to meet other young professionals in Lubbock.

How long have you been a YP member?

For about three years What are some of your favorite YP events to attend? The First Tuesday Networking’s are the best—a relaxed and rewarding get together.

What do you feel is the most rewarding part of being a YP member? Networks that mature into friendships.

Why is being a YP member important to you?

I believe it is important to become invested in the community you serve. We all have a stake in the cultural development of Lubbock.

Where do you work? First United Bank What is your position? I am an attorney working on the Compliance and Audit side.

What all does your position entail? I help the bank navigate the treacherous waters of banking regulations.

How long have you been with your current company? Less than a month!

Leadership Lubbock: Days at the State Capitol Due to inclement weather this year’s Leadership Lubbock’s class days at the State Capitol were canceled. We would like to thank our Day Sponsors for supporting our program and class days.

Leadership Lubbock Days at the State Capitol Day Sponsors:

Leadership Lubbock Diamond Sponsor:

Platinum Sponsors: Presenting Sponsor:

Sondra’s Song Helping youth transition out of Foster Care.

Luncheon with the Presenting First Lady of Texas Mrs. Greg Abbott

March 10, 2015 at Noon Lubbock Memorial Civic Center Exhibit Hall 12

Tickets are now at Select-a-Seat For more information, visit us at www.sondrassong.org

Lubbock Business Network

Leadership Lubbock Spotlight: Greg Stevens Why did you choose to become part of the Leadership Lubbock Steering Committee?

After having participated in the program as a student in the 2013/2014 class, I was excited to be asked to join the committee and help facilitate such a great experience for others. Leadership is a subject that I care a great deal about, and I am committed to developing and coaching ambitious leaders throughout our community.

How long have you been associated with Leadership Lubbock? Since August 2013.

What are some of your favorite Leadership Lubbock events to attend? Agriculture Day, Arts and Education Day and State Government Days What do you feel is the most rewarding part of being the chairman of the Leadership Lubbock Steering Committee?

Leading Leaders! Being a part of such a great group of committed leaders is such a fun and exciting way to expand my own leadership abilities and share my experiences as well.

Why is the Leadership Lubbock program important to you?

People are the engine behind American ingenuity and prosperity, and people must be lead by leaders who understand the paramount value of their human resources over all other resources. How an organization selects, trains, and assesses its human capital will determine its competitive advantage and level of success, whether that organization is a business, nonprofit, government entity, school district, etc. Inspired, authentic leadership spread through programs like Leadership Lubbock is the key to understanding and adopting such a paradigm.

Who do you work for? The Lubbock Police Department What is your position? Assistant Police Chief What all does your position entail?

Executive leader of all support and administrative portions of the police department, including Records, Training Academy, Internal Affairs, Community Intelligence Unit, Dispatch/ Communications, Property and Evidence Storage, Media Relations, etc.

How long have you been with your current company?

22 years Share some info about your family.

Wife: Randi, 4th grade teach at Cooper-North Elementary School Son: Brennan Stevens, 18, senior at Frenship High School Daughter: Madison Phillips, 18, senior at Monterey High School Twin Daughters: Abby & Ally, 11, 6th graders at Laura Bush Middle School and we have a Poo-Tzu Dog, Honey

New Century Leadership: Tax Dollars at Work New Century Leadership class met on Wed., Feb. 11, for Tax Dollars at Work Day. The day started off with a visit to the Lubbock County Court House where Honorable Bill Sowder spoke to the class about trials and drug court. The class then toured the Lubbock County Detention Center and then visited Sky Views for lunch with a quick lesson on Business Etiquette Dining.

After lunch, the class toured Fire Station No. 1 and then met with Police Chief Roger Ellis at the Lubbock Police department.

The students toured the building, met with the SWAT Team

and Bomb Squad before ending the day in the police briefing room with a question and answer session with Assistant Police Chief Greg Stevens. The next New Century Leadership Class is scheduled for Wed., March 11.

NEW CENTURY LEADERSHIP

New Century Leadership Student Spotlight: Bethanie Barrera Get to know New Century Leadership student, Bethanie Barrera.

Barrera is a high school junior, who represents Talkington School for Young Women Leaders in the New Century Leadership Program. She has been playing the violin for five years and enjoys making new friends.

“I include everyone in all activities and I invite people who typically don’t participate,” Barrera said.

Barrera participates in several school activities and community groups. She is the co-captain for her cheer squad and participates in Journalism UIL, Number Sense and Oral Interpretation. Barrera is also very involved in her church, volunteering for retreats, youth groups and Vacation Bible School in the summer.

“I participate in the community because it is a great way to meet new people outside of school and a way to learn new things about different cultures and people,” said Barrera.

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Lubbock Business Network

Chamber Ambassador Program The Ambassador program is comprised of 195 men and women of widely diverse Chamber member businesses and organizations. The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors are a highly visible, prestigious group of volunteers who strive to assist in fulfilling the Chamber’s mission to “strengthen, promote & serve our member businesses.” They play an essential role in helping facilitate Ribbon Cutting and Ground Breaking ceremonies and by giving of their time to help businesses grow and achieve successful results, the Ambassadors contribute to the overall economic health and growth of the Lubbock business community.

These 195 ambassadors are split up into five teams.

Ambassadors compete every month for the most participation in ambassador events. In the month of January, Krista Jenkins was named Ambassador of the Month and Team Soliz won

Ambassador Team of the Month with 405 points.

Sixty percent of all 195 ambassadors participated in at least one event. Team Jenkins achieved 75 percent participation.

Team Soliz achieved 68 percent participation. Team Davis achieved 62 percent participation. Team Hannon achieved 57 percent participation. Team Laughlin achieved 49 percent participation. The Chamber appreciates the efforts put forth by our Ambassadors, and the time they each devote to Chamber events.

If you are interested in sponsoring the Ambassador of the Month award and/or the Ambassador Team of the Month Award, or if you are interested in becoming an ambassador, please contact Haily Assiter, Marketing Specialist, at haily.assiter@lubbockbiz.org or by phone at (806) 761-7003.

Ambassador of the Month: Krista Jenkins Congratulations to Krista Jenkins, January Ambassador of the Month. Jenkins has been a Chamber Ambassador for a little over a year and joined the program because a friend and current Ambassador had highly recommended it.

“There are so many opportunities within the Ambassador Program,” said Jenkins who recently joined the committee as a team captain.

For Jenkins, the most rewarding part of being an Ambassador is learning about the community and showing her support for local businesses.

“My favorite events are the ribbon cuttings because of the support we demonstrate to the new businesses. Being a small business owner can be challenging, and we all need all the support we can get. There are many opportunities to mastermind with other businesses due to this mutual support,” Jenkins said.

Jenkins and her husband opened up their own business, Simply Heath & AC, in January of 2012 and she is also a commercial real estate agent with the Powell Group - Keller Williams Commercial Real Estate.

“My position as a small business owner requires me to wear

many hats, accountant, human resources, marketing, etc. It can be challenging, but I would not have it any other way. I am blessed to be self-employed,” stated Jenkins.

Jenkins is very involved in all aspects of the Chamber. She is on the Agriculture, Government Relations and Transportation committees. She also attends Business After Hours on a regular basis to meet other members outside of the Ambassador Program and committees she is involved in.

“I cannot say enough good things about our Chamber employees and the way that they watch out for us and our interests in Lubbock, Texas, and in the United States. They are all top-notch,” Jenkins said.

Outside of the Chamber, Jenkins is the 2015 Vice President of the South Plains Chapter of the Air Conditioning Contractors of America. She also volunteers at Mosaic with fellow ambassador, Barbara Webster, creating arts & crafts projects with the Mosaic students.

“It is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done,” said Jenkins.

Ambassador Team of the Month: Congratulations, Team Soliz, Ambassador Team of the Month! Team Soliz finished January with 405 points and 68% percent team participation.

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Team Soliz, led by Danny Soliz includes: Barb Addiego, Ty Allison, Becky Bergy, Donna Borden, Meg Anne Brown, Julie Canon, Ashley Cash, Traci Cheek, Debbie Drury, Lisa Ellison, Angie Fikes, Jessica Hall, Trish Haymes, Michal Ibarra, Jane Jackson-Smith, Alicia Jameson, Sharon Judd, Sherry Lusk, Jacoby Madewell, Dionne Merriott, Phyllis Miller, Allison Pace, Julie Paulk, Norma Placencia, Myndee Pool, Chelsea Salazar, Nathan Scarborough, Melenie Segura, Shelley Shields, Frank Silvas, Tori Sypert, Louisa Vaca, Lewis Vega, Carmen Vige, Cindy Williams, Stephanie Williams, Teresa Young

Lubbock Business Network

Ribbon Cuttings & Groundbreakings Sponsored by:

Bahama Buck’s Franchise Corp.

5741 50th St

Churrasca Brazilian Steakhouse 6015 82nd St., Ste. 1

FirstBank & Trust Co. 6501 19th St

Godeke Library 5034 Frankford Ave.

Keller Williams Realty 10210 Quaker Ave.

Tax Gator 1922 34th St.

Interested in becoming a member of

Three Dog Bakery 5214 98th St., Ste. 103

This women only organization is committed to promoting voluntarism, developing potential, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

For more information click here.

Is your business moving locations, expanding or celebrating a company milestone?

If so, we want to celebrate with you!

Contact Haily Assiter to book your groundbreaking or ribbon cutting today!

806.761.7003 | haily.assiter@lubbockbiz.org.

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Lubbock Business Network

Welcome New Chamber Members!

1/16/15 - 2/15/15

Please place this addition in your Chamber Business Directory & Resource Guide Sponsored by:

Advanced Business Solutions 7302 82nd St., Ste. 13 Lubbock, TX 79424 (806) 866-2266 Mailing Equipment

Feed and Thangs 805 Liberty Dr. Idalou, TX 79329 (806) 892-2861 Farm & Ranch Supply

Churrasca Brazilian Steakhouse 6015 82nd St., Ste. 1 Lubbock, TX 79424 (806) 687-7576 Restaurant

Larry Crosby & Associates Lubbock, TX (806) 778-5523 Business Consulting & Services

Destiny Staffing & Training 2402 52nd St., Ste. 12 Lubbock, TX 79412 (806) 748-1666 Employment Agency-Permanent and/or Temporary

McDougal Capital Lubbock, TX (806) 239-5903 Investments Multiplex Motors Swift Lube & Oil Change 4013 N. Frankford Lubbock, TX 79416 (806) 744-0202 Auto Dealers - New, Used and/or Leasing

South Plains Software Solutions Forestburg, TX (214) 213-9479 Computer - Software Development State Farm Insurance - Rodriguez, Jeremy 2602 50th St., Ste. 400 Lubbock, TX 79413 (806) 780-5000 Insurance Tax Gator 1922 34th St. Lubbock, TX 79411 (806) 747-1298 Tax Prep Service

SAVE THE DATE Salute to Ag Luncheon: March 25 Chamber University: April 1 Cinco de May Luncheon: May 5 Community Prayer Luncheon: May 7 Business Expo: May 14

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