Making Connections
Join an organizationThey say it's not what you know, but who you know that matters. The best way to expand your business contacts is by joining a few organizations. "There are literally thousands of business organizations in the GTA," says Jennifer Reardon, president of JCI Toronto. ROGER PIERCE |
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 [ 2005-11-16 ] |
Do your homework before signing on with any business organization, cautions Jennifer Reardon, JCI Toronto president.
So many choices makes it difficult for a new entrepreneur to figure out which organization to join. One option is the Toronto Chapter of Junior Chamber International (www.jcitoronto.ca), a non-profit international organization consisting of young professionals and entrepreneurs under the age of 40. With a mandate to build young leaders, JCI is active in 100 countries, 6,000 communities and has more than six million alumni members.
Reardon cautions new entrepreneurs to "look before you leap" into an organization. "Find out as much as you can before you sign on," she recommends. "A good club or organization will invite you to sample some of their events and meet with members before you're asked to commit."
Finding the right fit is critical. "Your time is precious, so join an organization that will help you to build business skills, advance your career, meet prospects, find suppliers or connect with colleagues," Reardon says.
For example, JCI Toronto members get involved by attending monthly learning and networking events such as "Entrepreneurs, Action & Training (EAT)"; chair committees for programs such as its "Breakfast with a CEO" series; or run for positions on the chapter's board of directors.
How much time you've got is also a consideration. "You can attend some great JCI functions in only three hours per month," Reardon says. "Committee or board positions may require up to 20 hours per month, so be sure to define how much time you've got."
Anyone interested in sampling JCI Toronto is invited to attend its 10th Anniversary Celebration, to be held Saturday, Nov. 19 at the Delta Chelsea Hotel. At this dinner and dance, guests can learn about the history of JCI, connect with other young entrepreneurs and explore member opportunities. Tickets are available through the organization's website.
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