Region's chambers assist young pros with networking

For those newly graduated from college or starting as entrepreneurs, the business world can be an intimidating place. Between building the right image, finding the best location and networking within the community, it often seems like a daunting task.

That's why local chambers of commerce have created groups to help.

The Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce started the oldest such program in the area, the Chamber Young Professionals, in 2004.

"What we do is a variety of events to help young professionals in the area," said Shad Burner, business development specialist for the chamber. "The three goals [within the young professionals group] are expanding networking opportunities, community development and gaining professional involvement among the members."

Those in the Chamber of Young Professionals don't have to be chamber members but are welcome to join. They receive invitations to Cape Girardeau chamber events, but are not expected to attend regular chamber meetings.

One event specific to the younger professionals is speed networking, which Burner explained as similar to speed dating. People introduce themselves for a minute and, at the end of the session, exchange business cards.

Two years ago, the Jackson Chamber of Commerce began its version of the young professionals group, called JOLT: Jackson Outstanding Leaders of Tomorrow.

This group of about 25 members also operates on a volunteer basis. Anyone younger than 40 who wishes to participate doesn't have to join the chamber, just attend JOLT functions.

Members of JOLT also are invited to attend regular chamber functions, such as business after-hours events, business breakfasts or annual banquets. The most recent event the Jackson Chamber hosted was its banquet at the Bavarian Halle, which it does in conjunction with the Jackson Industrial Development Co. This year was the largest turnout for the event, with more than 500 people attending.

Kyle Thompson, chairman of JOLT, said the events the organization hosts are usually leadership-themed.

"[JOLT events are] usually networking events to learn more about what professionals are doing in our area," Thompson said.

In the past, JOLT has invited retired military leaders as well as local business leaders to speak to their organization and provide guidance on how they have succeeded in their fields, along with what is important to remember when first getting started.

The newest opportunity for young professionals in the Perryville, Missouri, area is the Young Professional Ambassadors group available through the Perryville Chamber of Commerce.

The group met for the first time Jan. 9, and plans to hold meetings every other month. In addition to meetings on the second Thursday of the month, the group will meet for happy hour at 5 p.m. in the Vintage Room at Mary Jane Burgers & Brew. This first event is scheduled for Feb. 12.

"Our group has decided to form two different goals," Perryville Chamber of Commerce director Amanda Winschel said. "We hope to act as the primary liaison to connect new members with other chamber members in addition to getting younger professionals involved."

Winschel said the Perryville chamber has a strong older chamber base, but by getting new members involved early in their careers, she is hoping they will continue to grow with the chamber and become viable members of the community. Also, Winschel said the Young Professional Ambassadors group is a great way for new members to get more comfortable interacting in a room of professionals.

For more information on how to get involved with these groups, visit their websites at jacksonmochamber.org, capechamber.com or perryvillemo.com.

smaue@semissourian.com

388-3644