Often times when salespeople hear the word “workshop” the same images come to mind….lots of people sitting at tables and taking notes while a speaker goes on and on through a powerpoint presentation. Many times events that are billed as “workshops” are anything but…with no work required of participants they should be called “listening and absorption opportunities” instead.
On February 15th (that’s right, the day after Valentine’s Day) the Chamber’s Strategic Sales Development Committee invites Chamber members to a different kind of workshop…one in which everyone is expected to work together for the benefit of all that attend. By far, one of the greatest benefits of Chamber membership is the opportunity to meet and work alongside fellow businesspeople. The commaradery shared between small business owners, business development representatives and even technicians has a value that cannot be quantified. To be able to share ideas and best practices, stories of past experiences and even pitfalls can make a huge difference in whether or not a business can weather a tough economy and stay diligent in tough times. At the SSD’s first ever Idea Exchange Workshop, Chamber members will have an opportunity to do just that.
Upon registration, all attendees will be asked to bring with them their best practices, tips and advice for tackling some of the toughest stages of the sales process, including: prospecting, qualifying leads, closing the sale and follow-up. At the event, each participant will be assigned to a group to share these ideas where they can take notes, ask questions and engage in purposeful discussion with fellow attendees. At the end of the discussion time, each group will be asked to have a representative share the “best of the best” with all attendees so that everyone can come away with great tangible ideas and action steps to improving their sales efforts.
“Many sales professionals have certain techniques that work for them, says Meric Gambel, Director of Business Development for the Spartanburg Area Chamber. “The idea exchange workshop is an interactive and fun way to learn these techniques in various aspects of the sales process.”
The greatest part about this first-time event is that is it ABSOLUTELY FREE and open to any Chamber members. Boxed lunches will be available (as always) on site for $7.50 per person on a first-come, first-served basis and lunch and networking will begin prior to the event in order to avoid any food flying around when the discussion gets underway. Seating is limited so all registrations must be received no later than Friday, February 10th.
For details and to register online, click here.
