Networking breakfast an eye-opener for Vista chamber

By: ROB O'DELL - Staff Writer | Tuesday, March 29, 2005 9:20 PM PST ∞

VISTA ---- Since the Chamber of Commerce is all about supporting business, it wanted to emphasize a more professional ---- rather than social ---- tenor at some of its events.

As a result, the chamber has created a "networking breakfast" designed to put the focus of its functions back on its members and the companies they represent.

"We felt there was a need for a little more focused networking other than just a social event," said chamber Executive Director Jim Baumann. "We think we hit a nerve."

Its first breakfast in March fed 80 people, far more than the "pie in the sky" figure of 50 that the chamber was hoping for, Baumann said.

Its next "Good Morning Vista Networking Breakfast" will be from 7:15 to 8:45 a.m. April 13 at the Shadowridge Country Club. Admission costs $20 for chamber members and $25 for nonmembers if reservations are made by April 6, after which there is a $5 for late registration.

The program for the networking breakfast is different than a traditional chamber function such as a sundowner, Baumann said, because it is more focused on business.

At each breakfast table, business members introduce themselves and their companies, then explain the types of business or "referrals" they're seeking.

For example, he said, the owner of a dog-washing kennel would be looking for dogs, while a financial services firm may be looking for 40-year-olds seeking retirement advice.

The key, he said, is to match up businesses that have like interests and help them to help their businesses.

"Instead of just casual conversation, it gets down to what they do ... and what they are looking for," Baumann said. "It has this focus. Rather than just socialize, they get to know more about their businesses. That's what its all about."

In addition to the 10-minute networking session, Baumann said the breakfast also features a speaker presentation and a time for businesses that pay an extra fee to give a two-minute "spotlight" on the specifics of their business. People also have the opportunity to sponsor the entire breakfast or buy individual table exhibits for more exposure, he said.

He said the chamber is trying a variation of similar programs that have worked for the Carlsbad and Oceanside chambers.

For more information or to register, go to www.vistachamber.org/network.htm or call (760) 726-1122.

Contact staff writer Rob O'Dell at (760) 631-6620 or rodell@nctimes.com.

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