Opening Doors

It’s the end of the dreaded Monday workday. There’s the view of Lake Michigan on a fall afternoon. A room full of friendly faces is staring at you. Not a bad way to do a little networking. Recently, more than 60 people met at the Water’s Edge in historic Algoma for a monthly Business Connection event. The bed and breakfast was cozy; attendees packed in. Casual conversations were struck with those standing near. Some made their way to the impressive spread of food waiting along the wall while others waited patiently to get a peek at the rooms.

This meeting kicked off the third season of Business Connection. The Algoma Chamber of Commerce initiated the program in 2008. Business leaders and those in the community have found it to be a valuable networking tool.

Each month, the Business Connection is held at a business in Algoma. The intent of the events is to open the doors and open the communication between businesses and the community.

“For business professionals, it is a good opportunity to get in and see what other business people are doing and how they are doing it. Here, you have an open door,” says Jim Rabas, Algoma Chamber president and co-owner of Algoma Motors.

Algoma Chamber board member Kristine Ruehl selects a different company each month. She chooses businesses that don’t typically have a lot of exposure to the public – people don’t know what the business does or usually can’t see their operations.

“The idea is to give these businesses the word-of-mouth benefit that comes with being in a small town,” adds Ruehl, owner of Hotel Stebbins.

Each meeting sponsor promises a one-of-a-kind experience. Every location has a different setup, but the goal of the evening remains the same: sharing information.

“Education is a big part of what we try to stress with each sponsor,” says Ruehl. “It is their chance to educate the people walking through their door.”

Tours give attendees an intimate look into their business. The remainder of the evening is reserved for socializing. No formal presentations are given. Business Connection has become more about learning what the city has to offer than getting business leads.

“But, you never know when you’ll make the right connection,” adds Rabas.

While business professionals attend, Business Connection also draws curious members of the community. Ruehl explains businesses shouldn’t underestimate the power of small town chatter. “It is always good to have someone talking about you.” Sponsors consistently report a positive experience when participating in the events,” she says.

Business Connection is held the second Monday of the month, fall through spring, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Marketing postcards sent out by the Algoma Chamber to Chamber members, businesses and individuals in the community reveal the location. Those who aren’t on the mailing list can find the information on the Algoma Chamber website, www.algoma.org.

The events are open to the public. Individuals are asked to RSVP online so the sponsor can plan for the amount of food and refreshments needed.

Attendance ranges from 60 to 125, depending on the venue. Many attendees know each other, although some new faces are in the crowd.

“All types of businesses show up – some are in real estate, many are in industry. More and more community members and area volunteers are coming by,” says Rabas.

A nominal fee gets you into the Business Connection. The donation covers the two drink tickets given at the door. The evening’s sponsor provides light hors d’oeuvres.

Rabas feels the events allow Algoma to be a stronger community – one that people want to learn more about. “If these other businesses do better, I’ll do better in the secondary market,” he adds.
Ruehl appreciates the networking event to help her hear about what is happening in town and to discuss ways to help the local economy thrive.

“I think it is important for citizens to know more about who they can support locally,” says Ruehl