From this discussion came the resolution that a community forum, such as the one here on marklaclair.com would be a terrific way to communicate, not only amongst the committee members, but with the general public as well.  I have offered my community forum as tool for use by the committee to conduct its business.

In addition, I will continue to post articles here relating to the progress of the Joint Regional Chamber Committee (name to be discussed and decided on) and will monitor and facilitate the community forum.  Later today, I will have a copy of the minutes from that meeting here for anyone interested in following the progress.

Go To the Joint Regional Chambers of Commerce forum

View All Articles Relating to the Chambers of Commerce

From 2002 through 2006, I was the General Manager for InnSeason Resorts Pollard Brook, a 5 star resort directly accross from Loon Mountain.  I was also an active board member for the chamber, chair of the marketing committee and its president during my tenure.  Now, after 18 months away from the area, I find myself getting back to the people, the businesses, and the environment that was so good to me for those 4 years.

The LWCC is an integral part of a community that is navigating its way through some stormy waters of change.  At the top of the list is the explosive development taking place on Loon Mountain and its expanded South Peak.  New businesses are cropping up and introducing new and exciting products and services to offer to the local base and the tourists that seek them.  And, the residents and employees of the towns are realizing that their small mill town, is looking more and more like a true destination.

What the community needs now is a chamber of commerce that can bring the cogs together to form a well oiled machine.  Piecing the needs of the individual membership together with the collective needs of the community in a manner that diminishes our weaknesses and exposes our strengths will be the true challenge.  From marketing and public relations to legislative affairs and community planning, the chamber of commerce is being asked to lead the community to the next level.

LWCC Mission: To attract new and promote existing businesses to ensure the economic vitality of Lincoln-Woodstock in cooperation with, and providing a benefit for, the civic, educational, traditional, and environmental needs of the Lincoln-Woodstock community.

My role with the LWCC will be one of a facilitator, marketer, communicator, organizer, and leader.  I am being asked to lead the Lincoln Woodstock community toward prosperity, for businesses and individuals alike.  It is no small task, but one that I greatly accept.  So I say to the people of Lincoln and Woodstock, New Hampshire “Here we go!  You ain’t seen nothin yet.”

I do enjoy speaking, but more importantly, I enjoy the return on my time investment.  The trick is to be convincing to your audience that you have expertise in the subject matter.  Almost inherently, speaking to an audience of business professionals, makes you an authority on the subject and gives you (and your business) an air of credibility.  Understanding the subject matter, then finding a way to pass that knowledge on to your audience in a professional and genuine manner can win you tremendous respect.  Case in point:

I have had the pleasure of speaking at many different ARDA meetings here in New England, and in other cities accross the country.  Without fail, after every panel or speach, I have had participants that approached me with questions…and business cards, thanking me for the information.  Though the sessions are never self-promoting, the credibility that I have earned is well worth the trouble.  I have also met the “right” people after giving such talks and have closed deals as a result.  Just having your name and your company name on the powerpoint projector gives you some recognition.

Taking the time to offer your services as a speaker will give you the added exposure you may be looking for.  If you are not a good public speaker, then practice.  If you are, then you will have no trouble putting together an event.  Remember, the event is not to promote yourself or your company, but to share some valuable knowledge.  Give your audience enough information to earn their respect, but not so much that they don’t need you afterward.  The exposure gained is merely the positive by-product of your willingness to do the work.