Posts Tagged ‘Longview Chamber

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22
Sep
11

Maximizing LinkedIn for Your Biz! Register Today…

By Longview Chamber of Commerce 1 Comment
Categories: Business Development and Chamber of Commerce
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Benefits:

In this is live training session for beginner and intermediate users, you will learn what the LinkedIn social network is and how it can benefit you and your business.

Summary:

LinkedIn is the largest and fastest growing social network for business people. There are currently over  101 million users and it is growing every day.  It is a great platform to: find new employees, find a job, build your professional reputation and find business partners.

Join us to see a live demonstration of:

  1. Creating an account on LinkedIn
  2. Finding business connections
  3. Join groups
  4. Participating in Question and Answer forums

How do I make LinkedIn work for me?

  1. Give and Ask for Recommendations
  2. Join or Create Groups
  3. Participate in Question and Answer forums
  4. Applications – add interaction to your profile
  5. Add your profile to Facebook

Instructor:

Chamber member Rod Arnold is the Programs Director and Social Media Manager for Complete Business Systems, and he’s also the ‘go to’ social media expert in East Texas. Rod boasts a connection to well over 15 million people on LinkedIn, has been featured in Ricoh’s “Convergence” magazine, and is the author of “The Social Biz Buzz.” Search for any one of several different positions on LinkedIn and you will find him at the top of the pack. Let him show you how to leverage the power of social media to grow your business connections on LinkedIn as well.

 

How to Register:        Online (www.longviewchamber.com ) or via phone (903.237.4000)

Cost:                                   $15.00 per person – MC/VISA/AM EX/Discover accepted

Cancellations:            Reservations require payment unless cancelled by September 27, 2011.

20
Sep
11

5 seats left for customer service training workshop

By Longview Chamber of Commerce 2 Comments
Categories: Business Development and Chamber of Commerce
Tags: , , , , ,

Customer Service Training …Are You Delivering the WOW Factor?

Benefits:

In this workshop you will learn 20 concrete ways for your employees to make emotional connections with your customers. From the memorable “Be Gumby” technique to the “Man in the desert” analogy to ideas from Disney, Starbucks, Zappos and Apple, your employees will walk away from this module with realistic ideas for improving the customer experience and the inspiration to truly commit to WOWing your customers at every touch point.

Course Outline:

The powers of connection…make emotional connections with your customers through empathy, acknowledgement, and being fully present in the moment.

Needs are met!…Proactively work to meet your customers’ expressed and unexpressed needs…Myra introduces two powerful analogies that will ensure your employees retain this strategy and that they have the inspiration to truly meet unexpressed customer needs.

You’re empowered for a reason…why doing what is right by the customer is doing right by the company.

How to make customers feel smart and good…even when they ask “silly” questions.

Exactly how to make every caller feel taken care of…6 ideas from the Apple Genius Bar.

Stop battling with customers over small stuff…why sometime you just need to “Give’em the pickle” and move on in order to retain the customer.

Speaker:

Myra Golden is a highly sought-after speaker and one of America’s most recognized experts on customer service. She has become internationally renowned for her energizing delivery of hard-hitting advice that leads to dramatic and immediate changes in attitudes and behavior.

How to Register:          Online (www.longviewchamber.com ) or via phone (903.237.4000)

Cost:                       $25.00 Members (includes lunch and handouts)

                                    $50.00 Non Members

                                    MC/VISA/AM EX/Discover accepted

Cancellations:              Reservations require payment unless cancelled by September 22, 2011

 FOR EXPEDITED REGISTRATION  register online (www.longviewchamber.com) 

19
Aug
11

Chamber Products that can Benefit Your Bottom Line!

By Longview Chamber of Commerce 5 Comments
Categories: Advocacy, Business Development and Chamber of Commerce
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On February 1, 2009 the Longview Chamber in conjunction with Jackson-Lloyd Insurance Management launched “Sensible Solution”.   “Sensible Solution” was designed to protect the business interests of the membership by providing real occupational health insurance protection in an affordable way to any size business.  “Sensible Solution” has become one of two GREAT benefits offered to members. 

The second insurance plan launched on July 1, 2010, “ChamberChoice Health Savings Plan”.  Chamber members with 1-99 employees now has access to several differentUnitedHealthcare health plan options – at prices that fit most budgets.  In addition, businesses that enroll withUnitedHealthcare through this partnership will receive a 7 percent discount on select medical plans and have an option for saving 5 percent on their bundled dental and vision plans.  Plus, businesses and employees who enroll in the ChamberChoice Health Savings Plan will also have access toUnitedHealthcare’s nationwide health care provider network of more than 600,000 physicians and care professionals, and 5,000 hospitals.

With both insurance plans, businesses have the ability to choose their desired level of coverage.  The goal of The Longview Chamber is to provide members with insurance choices that helps their bottom line with lower premium payments as well as a vehicle for controlling claims costs.  Most especially, the members have asked for and will now receive a product that will reduce their operating costs while protecting the Longview economic base.   

“Sensible Solutions” and “ChamberChoice” are products which provide members with a superior options to protect and retain employees.  Plus, these tools keeps our healthcare treatment at home while providing quality care and convenience and keeping our dollars local!

For more information about these programs you can visit http://www.longviewchamber.com or contact Kelly Hall at  the Chamber, 903-237-4004 or president@longviewtx.com.

 

 

 

17
Jun
11

Economic Indicators remain strong for Longview TX

By Longview Chamber of Commerce Leave a Comment
Categories: Advocacy, Business Development, Chamber of Commerce, Leadership and Promoting Longview
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Cautious optimism remains in place for the Longview economy as unemployment numbers continue to be below state and national averages coupled with another strong monthly sales tax report from the State Comptroller’s office.   Yesterday, the Texas Labor Market Information services released their latest report for the Longview MSA.  Unemployment is at 6.7% compared to the State ’s 7.9% and US’s 8.7%.  Mining, Logging and Construction experienced a 9.4% growth rate compared to the same time last year.  Manufacturing reflected a 3.8% increase with Professional and Business Services at 3.7%.

The Longview Chamber builds hundreds of relocation packet for member companies to aid in their recruitment process stated Kelly Hall, President/CEO.   Over the past 60  days we have seen the volume of relocation packets  increase immensely compared to the same time last year.  HR teams from several sectors have requested high volumes of relo packets for their recruitment efforts.

Additional good news comes from WIRED Magazine.  Adam Davidson did an article recently on “The Emerging Epicenters of High Tech Industry”.   He created a map utilizing the Cluster Mapping Project at  Harvard Business School. The  provides the top 20 job-creating areas for the following fields: Plastics, Chemicals, Automotive, Aerospace vehicles, Information technology, Biopharma, Metal manufacturing, Communication technology, Medical technology, Analytical instruments, and Electrical equipment.  Eastman Chemical of Longview Texas is spotlighted at http://www.wired.com/magazine/2011/05/ff_jobsclustermap/.  Davidson reports Eastman dominates the chemical industry in Longview, an area spread over 3 counties in East Texas.  The company produces more than 40 products but ethyl acetate NF – solvent also used in pharmaceutical production and cosmetics – is as Longview specialty (even comes in kosher variety).

Longview Texas economic recovery continues to outpace the state and country.  If you would like to share more good news about your companies growth patterns in Longview  please contact Kelly Hall at president@longviewtx.com.

09
Jun
11

Longview chamber given a five-star accreditation – KLTV 7 News Tyler, Longview, Jacksonville |

By Longview Chamber of Commerce 1 Comment
Categories: Advocacy, Chamber of Commerce and Uncategorized
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The United States Chamber of Commerce today awarded the Longview Chamber of Commerce with 5-Star Accreditation for its sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community.

 

 

 

“Accreditation validates a chamber as having programs that benefit their local economy and for positively influencing action in their community,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, U.S. Chamber Executive Director of Political Affairs and Federation Relations.  “We applaud these organizations for advancing the principles of free enterprise.”

 

 

 

Accreditation is the only national program that recognizes chambers for their effective organizational procedures and community involvement. In order to receive Accreditation, a chamber must meet minimum standards in their operations and programs, including areas of governance, government affairs, and technology. This extensive self-review can take 6-9 months to complete.

 

 

 

See KLTV’s Interview on the importance of being an accredited Chamber.  

 

http://www.kltv.com/story/14870228/longview-chamber-given-a-five-star-accreditation

 

Local chambers are rated Accredited, 3-Stars, 4-Stars, or 5-Stars. State chambers are recognized as either Accredited State Chamber or Accredited State Chamber with Distinction. The final determination is made by the Accrediting Board, a committee of U.S. Chamber board members.

 

 

 

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.

 

 

 

Vision Statement: To be recognized as an effective resource, providing relevant, innovative, and impactful programming that ensures a healthy business climate and an enhanced quality of life for Longview and Gregg County.

Mission Statement: To enhance economic growth of the Longview trade area by focusing on education, promotion, and development of the business community, and those areas of the community affecting business.

 

CORE VALUES

 

Strengthening our Local Economy
Promoting the Community
Providing Networking Opportunities
Representing the Interest of Business with Government
Developing Community Leaders

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

08
Jun
11

HHS Issues Final Rule to Control Premium Increases

By Longview Chamber of Commerce Leave a Comment
Categories: Advocacy and Chamber of Commerce
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The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has issued a final regulation aimed at controlling large health insurance premium increases. The rule, which was issued on May 19, 2011, provides that:

  • Rate increases of 10 percent or more by insurers in the small group and individual markets must be reviewed by state or federal officials.
  • Insurance companies will be required to justify significant rate increases and provide information to consumers about the reasons for the increases.
  • Grandfathered plans and excepted benefits (such as separate dental-only and vision-only plans) do not have to meet these requirements.

This The Ward Agency Legislative Brief provides a summary of the HHS final rule, which is effective Sept. 1, 2011. For a copy of the rule, see www.ofr.gov/OFRUpload/OFRData/2011-12631_PI.pdf.

BACKGROUND

Under health care reform, HHS was required to establish a process for the annual review of “unreasonable increases in premiums for health insurance coverage.” The reform statute provides that the process must require health insurance issuers to submit justifications for unreasonable premium increases to HHS and the applicable state prior to the implementation of the increases.

The final rule implements section 2794 of the Public Health Service Act (PHSA), which was added by section 1003 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA).

It establishes the requirements for health insurance issuers offering health insurance coverage in the small group or individual markets to report information concerning unreasonable rate increases to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). It also sets the process for determining whether the rate increases are unreasonable.

FINAL RULE

Applicability

The final rule regarding rate increases applies to insurers in the small group and individual markets. However, it does not apply to grandfathered health plan coverage or to excepted benefits. Excepted benefits include things like liability insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, limited scope dental or vision benefits, long-term care or nursing home benefits and hospital indemnity insurance.

Source: The Ward Agency

06
Jun
11

Man Talk June 14th! Topic: obtaining success in business?

By Longview Chamber of Commerce 1 Comment
Categories: Business Development and Chamber of Commerce
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The Longview Chamber is proud to announce they are working with “Longview Community Men” and hosting Man Talk on June 14th at 7:00pm.  The topic is: Obtaining Success in Business.  Discussion items will include:

  • Have you discovered what does it take to have a successful business?
  • Do you know what a business must do to gain support from the community it is attempting to serve? 
  • Do you understand what are successful practices a business must have to survive in the world today? 
  • Did you realize how important  networking is to grow your business?

On Tuesday, June 14th, the Longview Community Men will host its monthly MAN TALK.  The panel participating in Man Talk will reflect the community of Longview and will discuss why it is important to work together and what are ssome of the barriers and how the community should rise to the occassion for the sake of the children and the future of the city as a whole.

The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. at the Longview Chamber of Commerce.  The Chamber is located at 410 N. Center., Longview, Texas. A small meal will be served at 6:30 p.m.

We are challenging the men of Longview to show up and represent their home, family and community at this Man Talk. If you know of men that have a business or want to start a business,this would be a great session for them to attend.  Encourage the young men to attend as well because there is a need for young entrepreneurs in the area.  DO NOT miss this opportunity to network and bring your business cards as well!!!!!!!!!!!

For more information contact Branden Johnson at brandendjohnson@live.com.

03
Jun
11

5 Keys to Creating a Magnificent Customer Experience

By Longview Chamber of Commerce Leave a Comment
Categories: Business Development and Chamber of Commerce
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Join us on June 10th  and learn how Zappos turned a shoe website into the world’s largest online shoe store in just 10 years, with $1 billion in gross revenue and a reputation for world-class customer service.

  • Key 1: Live and Deliver WOW
  • Key 2: Focus on the Customer Experience as the #1 Priority
  • Key 3: Make Emotional Connections with Customers
  • Key 4: Treat Employees Very Well
  • Key 5: Surprise and Delight      

 In addition to the 5 keys you will learn:

  1. How Zappos is able to WOW customers AND maximize operational efficiency with no call scripts and no call time targets
  2. Why Zappos decided to invest in surprise and delight and is getting a big ROI…and how you can too   
  3. How to use emotion to connect with your customers like the Zappos customer leadership team does with every customer
  4. Why Zappos pays new employees $2,000 to quit
  5. The Keys to empower contact center employees to deliver beyond wow service. 
  6. How Zappos management takes very good care of it’s contact center employees…ideas you might want to try
  7. All hands on deck! How Zappos handles peak call volumes  
  8. A step-by-step plan for making the customer experience the #1 priority

Speaker:

Myra Golden is a highly sought-after speaker and one of America’s most recognized experts on customer service. She has become internationally renowned for her energizing delivery of hard-hitting advice that leads to dramatic and immediate changes in attitudes and behavior.

 How to Register:    Online (www.longviewchamber.com) or via phone (903.237.4000)

Cost:  $25.00 per person (chamber members)

            $50.00 per person (non-members)

            MC/VISA/AM EX/Discover accepted

Cancellations:          Reservations require payment unless cancelled by June 7, 2011

31
May
11

Deadline Approaching to Amend Plan Documents for New OTC Rules

By Longview Chamber of Commerce Leave a Comment
Categories: Advocacy, Business Development and Chamber of Commerce
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One of the provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act changes the rules regarding over-the-counter drugs and health spending accounts.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2011, over-the-counter drugs are no longer eligible medical expenses under an FSA, HSA or HRA, unless accompanied by a prescription (with the exception of insulin). This effective date applies regardless of when the employer’s plan year begins and regardless of any grace period for health FSAs.

This rule does not include medical equipment and supplies, such as crutches, bandages and blood sugar test kits, which may still be reimbursed without a prescription.

Employers are required to amend their cafeteria plan documents to conform to this new requirement. Generally, such cafeteria plan amendments may be effective only prospectively.

However, guidance released by the IRS allows employers to amend their plan documents to conform to the new OTC drug requirements, effective retroactively for expenses incurred after Dec. 31, 2010, as long as the amendments are adopted no later than June 30, 2011.

If you have not already amended your cafeteria plan document to comply with the new OTC regulations, you should make necessary changes by June 30, 2011.

The official IRS notice regarding this guidance may be found at: www.ecfc.org/files/legislative-news/n-10-59.pdf

Source: The Ward Agency

 

 

 

 

02
May
11

launch of virtual marketpace simplifies search for area service providers

By Longview Chamber of Commerce Leave a Comment
Categories: Business Development, Chamber of Commerce, Networking Events and Promoting Longview
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
WhoCanHelp.com

WhoCanHelp.com provides Chamber members a virtual marketplace

The days of searching aimlessly for a plumber, repairman or other service provider only to wait in vain for a return phone call have been numbered, and now with the launch of WhoCanHelp.com to the Longview area, locals can say goodbye to thumbing through directories or scrolling through online lists for good.

Longview Chamber of Commerce officially announces today the launch of its partnership with WhoCanHelp.com. This new service that is now available will allow local companies and service providers to be linked to potential customers when establishing a free account on WhoCanHelp.com. 

“By partnering with the Longview Chamber of Commerce the WhoCanHelp.com online service marketplace has a resource of local service providers, so users can start posting and receiving offers from area businesses right away,” explains Carl Hicks, Jr., CEO of WhoCanHelp.com. “And businesses love getting immediate access to local consumers in need, free real-time sales leads and targeted online advertising opportunities. It’s definitely a win-win.” 

In the Longview trade area, the ZIP code-based service will give businesses a real-time connection with consumers who are looking for their products or services. For consumers, WhoCanHelp.com helps answer these universal questions:

When can they do it?

  1. What’s the cost?
  2. Are they reputable?

Whether looking for a landscaper, wedding photographer, accountant or carpenter, posting to WhoCanHelp.com is free and easy. The user simply lists the title and description of the service needed and identifies a category, subcategory, date needed by and ZIP code. Businesses learn instantaneously that someone is in need of their services via SMS text or e-mail and can immediately post an offer. The consumer then selects the service provider of his or her choice and has the opportunity to write a review following the completion of the work.

 Kelly R Hall , President/CEO of the Longview Chamber said “To better connect local business in our community this new tool has the power to not only generate leads within our own member businesses but it will also create new opportunities to get business in our local community utilizing the latest technology.   

WhoCanHelp.com combines the best features of other Web-based services — directory services, reviews, ratings and social networks — to create a comprehensive patent-pending approach to connect users and services providers. The website also works in business-to-business transactions, with requests for proposals and generation of business for larger firms, general contractors and government agencies that require widespread bidding.

 “Even though our service may soon be nationwide,” said Hicks, “our company embodies true community entrepreneurship, building commerce at the local level.”

 For more information, sample posts, categories, tutorials and locations coming soon, visit http://www.whocanhelp.com.

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