Greater Valley Chamber Events Newswire

Valley Business Network - REMOTE 4/1/2020 7:45 AM - 4/1/2020 9:15 AM

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 14:24:25 GMT

PLEASE NOTE: Until further notice the VBN will be meeting remotely. We will provide additional updates as soon as possible. Please contact Laura for details.

Valley Business Network is a category-exclusive networking group that meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month. VBN members represent a variety of industries and professions. The group's objective is to be a forum for relationship building with the goal of helping members to grow their networks. Additionally, VBN helps members become more informed business people, by sharing their expertise and learning from educational presentations provided by members and guest speakers.

Visitors are welcome. For more information on this Business Referral Group contact the Chamber today.

Please note: Greater Valley Chamber membership is required. VBN membership is by application and acceptance of the Advisory Board. There is a separate yearly membership fee due upon acceptance.

(Meeting times/days may change due to special presentations, holidays, weather, etc. Snow Policy: If Shelton schools are cancelled, the meeting will be cancelled. If Shelton Schools are delayed, the meeting will be on; however, please use your discretion based on the conditions in your area.)

TIED Council - REMOTE 4/2/2020 8:00 AM - 4/2/2020 9:00 AM

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 14:43:35 GMT

PLEASE NOTE: Until further notice the TIED will be meeting remotely. We will provide additional updates as soon as possible. Please contact Nancie for details.

Registration is required to access the remote link for this program

"Maximising Your Social Media Content"

Duck Unitas, Unitas Photography, will be presenting an excerpt from his presentation on social media marketing.

Using tools that you may have or are readily available for free or at a reasonable cost, Duck will walk you through a simple workflow to start generating content for your business to share on social media. This marketing tool has proven to be an effective method of connecting with and building a loyal customer base while helping to improve your overall SEO. Tune in to this keynote presentation for some useful tips on social media marketing.

The TIED Council (TIED is an acronym for Technology, Innovation, Education and Development) was developed to serve as resource of trusted advisors to increase all chamber members technology knowledge, helping them to understand how technology can enhance their business and to give Valley technology leaders a forum for collaboration and innovation and to bring awareness to local technology resource s providing support, answers, education, development, and information in the technology field(s) to our chamber members.

Compromised of individuals and companies within and without the technology industry including but not limited to; Cyber Security, Computer networking, Computer productivity, data usage, internet presence, social media, software training, and data analytics. The TIED Council coordinates ongoing informative seminars on technology issues affecting area businesses. The council meets on the first Thursday of each month at 8:00 AM (with exception of holidays when the meeting will be scheduled to a later date in the month). Membership in the Greater Valley Chamber is required for membership in the group; however, anyone is welcome to come to any meeting to learn more.

Chamber Coffee Break on Zoom 4/2/2020 10:30 AM - 4/2/2020 11:30 AM

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 15:10:22 GMT

You are invited to join us for this weekly program that will feature an brief opportunity to learn followed by time to connect virtually with other Valley area businesses. Can't join us for the whole hour, that's ok. Register today and sign-in when you can. (Limited registrations available.)

This week's topic: Emergency Business Planning for Local Business Leaders

Tom Maier has over 25 years of executive experience in marketing, sales, operations and administration. He knows where to modify essential practices for your business success. He uses proven strategies to coach your business in 5 areas including: sales, marketing, team building, systems and business development, and customer service.

Virtual Q+A with Congressman Jim Himes 4/7/2020 1:00 PM - 4/7/2020 2:00 PM

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 12:51:46 GMT

Please note: Limited dial-ins available. Please contact us for more information if you are unable to register due to maximum attendance.

Join Congressman Jim Himes and Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce President Bill Purcell and BRBC President Dan Onofrio as they answer questions related to the CARES Act and COVID-19 response, via Zoom on Tuesday, April 7th from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.

Once you register you will receive information via confirmation email on how to join the live Q+A.

You can submit your questions beforehand by clicking here.

In partnership with the Bridgeport Regional Business Council, Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce, Fairfield Chamber of Commerce, and Monroe Chamber of Commerce.

Seeds to Leads Networking Group - REMOTE 4/8/2020 7:45 AM - 4/8/2020 9:15 AM

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 14:34:40 GMT

PLEASE NOTE: Until further notice Seeds to Leads will be meeting remotely. We will provide additional updates as soon as possible. Please contact Laura for details.

Seeds to Leads is a category exclusive networking group. Their group goals are to build trusting personal and professional relationships that lead to professional referrals and business success. S2L members hold one another accountable for the services they offer and the professional handling of their cross referrals so they all may continue to grow and prosper. Guest speakers visit to educate them on issues relevant to the times. They meet the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month.

Greater Valley Chamber Membership is required. Guests may attend a meeting prior to joining. There is a separate application and fee for the networking group. For more information on this Business Referral Group contact the Chamber today.

Chamber Coffee Break on Zoom 4/9/2020 10:30 AM - 4/9/2020 11:30 AM

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 06:45:11 GMT

This week's topic: How to pivot from a face to face model to selling in a more virtual environment

Bob Carbonella is a Partner at Sandler Training which provides award winning Sales, Leadership, Customer service and Patient care training globally for over 45 years. He has worked closely with hundreds of Connecticut business owners during the past 30+ years. He loves solving complex problems and has a natural passion for helping others succeed, which he strongly believes are the 2 key elements for his business success. Combining his experience leading Fortune 10 organizations in Sales, Marketing, Training and Operations with Sandler’s award winning curriculum has enabled him to be a strategic asset for clients he supports.

Tuesdays at Two 4/14/2020 2:00 PM - 4/14/2020 3:00 PM

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 15:56:20 GMT

You are invited to join us for this new weekly afternoon program that will feature an opportunity to learn followed by time to connect virtually with other Valley area businesses.

Can't join us for the whole hour, that's ok. Register today and sign-in when you can. (Limited registrations available.)

This week's topic: Beyond the Business Card Exchange - Networking in a Virtual World

Join Rob Thomas, Founder and President of RobThomasUSA, as he presents "Beyond the Business Card Exchange: Networking in a Virtual World." Rob will break down the simple and strategic rules for going beyond the business card exchange in order to find and foster profitable business relationships. This 30-minute lively presentation will share the backbone principles of his method including his secrets and success stories, with time for Q+A after the presentation.

Presenter Biography:
Rob Thomas is the Founder and President of RobThomasUSA, and he is the creator of the Rob Thomas Method (RTM) of Networking and Networking in Diners. Rob is an entrepreneur, the author of Who Do You NEED to Meet? and is a dynamic public speaker.

Rob works with business professionals to help them develop their networking skills to help them achieve business and personal success. Through his unique brand of networking, built on the adage “It’s not what you know, but who you know”, Rob teaches and coaches business owners, senior executive and sales professionals how to identify, maximize, refine and nurture your network of contacts. A few interesting facts about Rob. First, he can’t sing or play the guitar, but he did work at Disney World and is an Eagle Scout.

Women In Networking (WIN) Council - REMOTE 4/14/2020 3:30 PM - 4/14/2020 4:30 PM

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 14:17:42 GMT

PLEASE NOTE: Until further notice WIN will be meeting remotely. Please contact Nancie for details.

Please join us for the Virtual WIN After Hours Before After Hours! We realize that mornings are jam packed with meetings, school, and more so we thought we should change up this month's meeting with a networking check-in meeting. The WIN Advisory team will be online from 3:30 - 4:30 to visit and share over your choice of BYOB - tea, wine, coffee, scotch, chocolate milk.... Attire is casual, make-up optional, we are just looking forward to seeing everyone! Can't come the whole time? That's ok, register and pop in when you can. Oh and kids, pets, and others safe at home with you - all are welcome to videobomb the event.

The Women In Networking (WIN) Council was formed as a way to share hurdles unique to women in business by providing a warm, friendly atmosphere that is supportive, educational & dynamic. Members are a mix of female entrepreneurs, business owners, and key players in B2B services.

In addition, WIN developed an Entrepreneurial Grant Program for Women In Business in the six Valley communities served by the Greater Valley Chamber. The WIN members host "Headshots at SchmoozaPalooza" and "WINGO" as fundraisers to support this grant and their fund with the Valley Community Foundation. Since the Grant was created $49,950 has been distributed to 54 women-owned businesses in the #ValleyCT. They also have a named fund through the Valley Community Foundation.

They meet the 2^nd Tuesday of each month -- Coffee & Networking 8:00 am - 8:15 am; Meeting starts at 8:15 am. Those looking succeed, achieve & prosper through sharing individual knowledge, skills and resources are welcome.

Greater Valley Chamber Membership is required to belong to the group. Area women in business are welcome to attend one meeting as a guest prior to joining. For more information contact the Chamber today.

(Meeting times/days may change due to special presentations, holidays, weather, etc. Snow Policy: Should Shelton schools be delayed or cancelled due inclement weather, the meeting will be postponed to the 3rd Tuesday - January/February/March only.)

Click here to join or renew your WIN membership. As a reminder Greater Valley Chamber membership is required to be a member of the group.

Valley Business Network - REMOTE 4/15/2020 7:45 AM - 4/15/2020 9:15 AM

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 14:24:53 GMT

PLEASE NOTE: Until further notice the VBN will be meeting remotely. We will provide additional updates as soon as possible. Please contact Laura for details.

Visitors are welcome. For more information on this Business Referral Group contact the Chamber today.

Please note: Greater Valley Chamber membership is required. VBN membership is by application and acceptance of the Advisory Board. There is a separate yearly membership fee due upon acceptance.

Chamber Coffee Break on Zoom 4/16/2020 10:30 AM - 4/16/2020 11:30 AM

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 15:45:49 GMT

This week's topic: Navigating in Times of Change and Uncertainty

Steve Gardiner brings us this very upbeat interactive session addressing the following six areas:

Focusing on things that you can control in the current environment
Actions which drive your performance and derailers which throw you off course
Being resilient
Staying calm, cool and collected during a crisis
Displaying courage
Staying physically/emotionally healthy

Healthcare Council Monthly Meeting Remote 4/17/2020 8:15 AM - 4/17/2020 9:30 AM

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 14:40:14 GMT

Please note: our Healthcare Council meetings now going virtual.

This month our meeting features Dr. Fred Browne of Griffin Hospital. Dr. Browne has 22 years experience and specializes in Infectious Diseases. He will be discussing the latest updates on the COVID-19 impact in our Valley.

If you are planning to attend as a guest, please contact the Chamber to confirm the location and to help us with our planning.

Comprised of individuals and companies in the Healthcare Industry including medical, insurance and care services, the Healthcare Council is a committee of the Greater Valley Chamber with a purpose to educate members, the business community, consumers, and government representatives on ways to reduce employee absenteeism costs, increase worker productivity and reduce overall healthcare costs.

Anyone interested in learning more about the monthly topic is welcome to attend our meetings held the third Friday each month starting at 8:15 am.

Membership in the Greater Valley Chamber is required to become a member of the group. Additional fee applies.

For more information on the Healthcare Council contact the Chamber today.

(Meeting times/days may change due to special presentations, holidays, weather, etc. Snow Policy: If school in the town/city where the meeting is being held is cancelled, the meeting will be cancelled. If schools are delayed, the meeting will be on; however, please use your discretion based on the conditions in your area.

Please note -- The location for this event is currently listed as the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce. If the registration exceeds room capacity we will be moving to another location.That information will be posted here on this event listing and on the Chamber's Facebook event listing.)

Tuesdays at Two 4/21/2020 2:00 PM - 4/21/2020 3:00 PM

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 14:08:12 GMT

You are invited to join us for this new weekly afternoon program that will feature an opportunity to learn followed by time to connect virtually with other Valley area businesses.

Can't join us for the whole hour, that's ok. Register today and sign-in when you can. (Limited registrations available.)

This week's topic: Does your customer’s experience payoff on your brand promise?

We’ll discuss customer experience (CX) and its relationship with customer service and marketing. There are three types of metrics that can help a business get a better understanding of their customers’ experiences. Some of these metrics you may already have even if you’re not currently using them to measure customer experience. The pandemic has changed how we can collect customer feedback. We’ll take a look at one or two tools that have become much more important while we are engaged in social distancing.

About your presenter: Dan Long, Long View CX & Marketing, is a Forrester Research Certified CX Pro with over 30 years’ experience in marketing and customer experience. In addition to his banking career, this is Dan’s third experience running a small business. Dan had a consulting business prior to working at Newtown Savings Bank. Dan with his wife Lisa, ran Cheshire Dance Studio and Cheshire Karate for 15 years.

Seeds to Leads Networking Group - REMOTE 4/22/2020 7:45 AM - 4/22/2020 9:15 AM

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 14:34:58 GMT

PLEASE NOTE: Until further notice Seeds to Leads will be meeting remotely. We will provide additional updates as soon as possible. Please contact Laura for details.

Postponed SchmoozaPalooza: 19th Annual Valley Business Expo & After Hours 4/22/2020 3:00 PM - 4/22/2020 6:00 PM

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 15:34:25 GMT

Please stay tuned for the new date!

Sponsorship Opportunities and Exhibit tables still available. Contact Laura for details.

Bring your friends, co-workers and clients to preview the latest products and services from exhibitors in a fun and casual networking environment. The evening will also include music, networking, food tastings, and more!

From promoting your company, making new contacts, and generating sales leads to winding down after work with a drink and tasty treats from some of the Valley's best restaurants and caterers, the SchmoozaPalooza experience is all about business in action and making connections.

Free to attend - walk-ins are welcome!

3:00 pm - 6:00 pm -- Exhibits Open

Free Health Screenings
Provided by the members of the Healthcare Council
Hearing Assessment, Balance Test, Massage & more

Exhibitor List (Tasting Booths in Italics): (coming soon!)

Chamber Coffee Break on Zoom 4/23/2020 10:30 AM - 4/23/2020 11:30 AM

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 09:53:00 GMT

This week's topic: The Art of Mindfulness and Self-care for Business and Life

What if you lived every day in the moment? Paying attention to what you are thinking, feeling, and sensing at any given instant throughout your day. Is it possible to be that aware and be productive? It’s possible and necessary. If we live each day thinking about the past or future, we miss what’s right in front of us…today. Our state of mind today controls our future, and by becoming aware of who we are today and how we are living our lives, we can create the future we want. When we become present and aware and understand ourselves and what we need, we can provide ourselves with the mental, emotional, and spiritual nourishment necessary to live healthy, happy, and productive lives.

Your presenter: Dr. Lori Monaco, Align Yourself, Inc., Lori is a Transformational Speaker and Coach, loving Mom and a bad-ass, fun loving, be silly as often as possible Gen Xer who teaches people to get beyond themselves to unleash their greatness at any age.

FUEL Virtual Lunch & Learn 4/23/2020 12:00 Noon - 4/23/2020 1:00 PM

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 15:09:58 GMT

Please join us for the special Virtual Lunch and Learn featuring Elizabeth Hiza, Chief of Staff, Barnum Financial Group.

Any successful person is always looking for an “edge”, something that will set them apart from the competition or propel them forward in their business. Often, they look for something from the outside like a new marketing program or client relationship system. However, the answer may lie within. My presentation will educate attendees on growth versus fixed mindset and how they impact our success and failure in both professional and personal contexts. It will detail ways to rewire our cognitive habits to adopt the much more rewarding and nourishing growth mindset.

Audience Takeaways

The differences between a growth and fixed mindset
How to recognize which mindset dominates your thinking
How to create a passion for learning vs. a hunger for approval
Tips to move your mindset from growth to fixed
- How to practice mindfulness
- How to remove the fear of failure
- Understanding your learning zone vs. performance zone
???????Industry examples of growth mindset at work

Tuesdays at Two 4/28/2020 2:00 PM - 4/28/2020 3:00 PM

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 14:28:18 GMT

You are invited to join us for this new weekly afternoon program that will feature an opportunity to learn followed by time to connect virtually with other Valley area businesses.

Can't join us for the whole hour, that's ok. Register today and sign-in when you can. (Limited registrations available.)

This week's topic: Interpersonal Style and Stress

We all have moments when we experience stress and today stress is being felt around the world at every age, at every level in the organization. Although we may have that in common, our stress responses are quite different. What is depleting and exhausting for you may cause someone else to be energized. Increasing self-awareness and understanding of what causes you stress will give you more control over it. Learn how different interpersonal styles respond to stress and gain tips for managing and reducing stress levels in your virtual work world and with housemates.

About your presenter: Celeste Barros, CWB Resource Group

Celeste Barros is an instructional designer and workshop facilitator focusing on customized curriculum design and development of interactive learning programs designed to enhance and build skills in the areas of communication, management and leadership, interpersonal selling and customer service. Her work has supported the training and development initiatives of organizations throughout every major business sector as well as agencies within the public sector.

Celeste has worked closely with organizations to build development programs integrating learning assessments such as the DiSC® Classic Profile and the new Everything DiSC® Sales Profile.

Celeste has provided customized training solutions for clients such as The University of Connecticut, Massachusetts Water Resource Authority, The General Electric Company, The Gillette Company, Pfizer, Staples, Inc., CIGNA, Aetna U.S. Healthcare, ING, and Lincoln Financial Group.

Postponed - FUEL: Charity on Tap 4/28/2020 5:30 PM - 4/28/2020 8:00 PM

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 16:01:23 GMT

Stay tuned for updates on this annual program.

Join us for our 3rd Annual Charity on Tap Event! Connecting young professionals with the Greater New Haven County non-profits!

Enjoy an evening of networking with over 20 organizations who are looking for you! Volunteering is a great way to develop relationships in the community, build your professional network, and give back to a great cause! Volunteer opportunities from supporting programs & services to providing strategic guidance as part of the board of directors; there are opportunities to fit all schedules, and interest! It's time to give back!

Light Refreshments included.

Chamber Coffee Break on Zoom 4/30/2020 10:30 AM - 4/30/2020 11:30 AM

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 16:12:17 GMT

You are invited to join us for this weekly webinar that will feature an opportunity to learn and include time to connect virtually with other Valley area businesses. Can't join us for the whole hour, that's ok. Register today and sign-in when you can. (Limited registrations available.)

This week's topic: Building a High Performing Virtual Team

In today’s world, home-working and teleworking have become much more common for many businesses. But how do you build a cooperative and productive team if you can’t meet face-to-face? This course will turn you into an adaptable and innovative leader who can easily keep pace with the changing workplace. It will help you navigating the digital frontier with confidence. As you face the challenges of leading a virtual team, you’ll see the entire team will respond with surprising engagement and productivity!

Your Presenter: Bob Dickson, Dale Carnegie of Western CT