Business and Relocation Guide 2009 - (Page 33) Connecting the Business Community “Connecting the Community” is CTC – Consolidated Telephone Company’s slogan. And, when they were looking to expand their support to the business community CTC turned to the resources of the Brainerd Lakes Chamber to launch its Business I.T. program. The return on this investment was better than expected, declared Andy Isackson, Marketing Communications Specialist with CTC, “We surpassed our growth goals by three times and have already considered adding additional staff, after only 10 months of the program.” CTC has always been an active member of the Chamber with staff attending networking events, serving on committees, and participating in promotional opportunities. So the value of their Chamber membership was experienced on a nearly daily basis. However, the launch of their Business I.T. program allowed for a hard dollars and cents evaluation. CTC marketed this service through the Chamber’s e-mail newsletter, monthly mailing and as a major sponsor for the annual golf tournament that attracts more than 300 business leaders. “We couldn’t be happier with the return on this investment,” said Isackson. “We will continue to invest our marketing dollars in these mediums, that have proven successful.” The Brainerd Lakes Chamber hosted community forums with Mn/DOT when the planning for Highway 371 in the community of Pequot Lakes was taking place. This includes everything from a universal gift certificate program in the Brainerd Lakes Area to publications and events targeted at specific audiences. Another audience that is very important to business in the Lakes Area is the tourists that come to our area each year, no matter what season. Their economic impact is substantial and, for that reason, the Chamber dedicates three visitor service offices, budget dollars, and resources to fostering tourism. Success of our tourism programs is accomplished by coordination of group tours, public relations with travel media throughout the country, online marketing, community events, and advocacy for key tourism issues affecting our communities. If you are a business in the Lakes Area, the Chamber is working for you. We can provide exposure to multiple audiences and partner in building your bottom line. AT YOUR FINGERTIPS To learn more about how the Brainerd Lakes Chamber serves not only businesses, but the entire community, at explorebrainerdlakes.com. This online resource is a comprehensive source of information about the Lakes Area as well as Chamber programs and events. Bean Hole Days brings more than 2,500 visitors to Pequot Lakes for this annual July celebration. The website is frequently updated with timely, interesting information—and provides easy access to Lakes Area weather, jobs, and more. Join the thousands of visitors who use this site each year. explorebrainerdlakes.com Visit explorebrainerdlakes.com for information about the Brainerd Lakes Chamber. explorebrainerdlakes.com 33 http://www.explorebrainerdlakes.com http://www.explorebrainerdlakes.com/ http://www.explorebrainerdlakes.com/
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