Dallas / Fort Worth AMA Newsletter 2-Feb-09 

1. Calendar Events
2. Articles

The Cost of False Assumptions and Lost Opportunities

Haven’t you ever reacted to a bit of information with, “Hmmm? That’s just the opposite of what I thought would happen!” It makes you challenge your assumptions, doesn’t it?

I experienced that when three of your Board members and I attended the AMA Regional Mid-Year Retreat in Austin. It’s a day when chapter leaders from the region get together to, “ReConnect, ReFocus, ReEnergize” in order to finish our Board term with a bang. Due to all the sharing, we come home with great ideas that are working for other chapters, but it also reinforces how outstanding our own DFW chapter is when we’re continually asked how we do things so successfully!

My ‘challenge’ moment came when I heard that, in spite of this economic downturn, the Austin chapter actually has had a substantial increase in its membership numbers! Of course I wondered why their number of members was up while ours had not gone down, but only remained steady. And their explanation was so simple – it’s because of the economy, stupid!

It goes back to the basic premise of pricing – is the value received worth the cost? I often hear from non-members that they would love to join, but just can’t afford it now because they’re out of work, their company won’t pay for it, etc. – and I’ve understandingly accepted their premise because I’ve been in their painful shoes (pay dues vs. buy groceries?). But now my question is, “Are you sure you can afford NOT to be a member?”

Can you really measure the cost of a lost opportunity? An opportunity to learn a new technique that will help you do your job better (and keep it!)…a strategy that will win you that new client who makes the difference in keeping your business open…a new connection who will prove to be a valuable friend and ally?

This “Duh!” moment forced me to realize that we haven’t done a very good job of marketing the benefits, and therefore value, of a membership. Members receive benefits at two levels – from the national AMA and locally. The AMA is an ever-increasing treasure trove of resources, and we even have members from out of the area who join just to receive the publications and have access to these resources:

·         Bi-weekly Marketing News – filled with the latest trends and best practices

·         Quarterly in-depth publications

·         Annual member directory

·         Frequent webcasts and radio programs

·         White papers, research studies, and much more on marketingpower.com

·         Internet Special Interest Groups

·         Professional development events around the country each month

Locally, in addition to the discounted event pricing for chapter members (usually 40%), we offer events almost every week for professional development and networking. At the local level you have the opportunity to develop new skills and connections through volunteering.

But we want to offer even more value for your dollar, so we’re ‘upping the ante’ and bringing more members-only benefits:

·         Watch for special offers from Getty Images and the Dallas Business Journal.

·         If you’re out of work, talk with Phillip Crum about his Job Assistance Package at Sir Speedy Printing (pcrum@SirSpeedyWalnutHill.com).

·         Take advantage of the Members Helping Members Table at the monthly Executive Luncheons – bring your resume, company brochure, or job openings to put on the table for others to take.

·         Attendees with job openings are identified at the monthly luncheons.

We’re working on developing more local member benefits, so if your company would like to participate in exchange for recognition, please contact me! And stay tuned for further developments…

As the button reads that D’ Forman wears, “I Refuse to Participate in the Recession!” You may have been struck a hard blow, but that doesn’t mean you have to be down for the count. By participating with our chapter, you’re taking control and doing something positive for yourself and your company. The time and money you spend with DFW AMA is an investment in your future, so don’t miss this opportunity!

Paige

With the economy fresh on everyone's mind, we know that businesses are looking for powerful ways to spend those precious marketing dollars. The Dallas/Fort Worth Chapter of the American Marketing Association offers unique opportunities to put your brand in front of a targeted audience including decision makers, influencers and other marketers that are shopping for goods and services. We are a trusted organization that connects you to resources from all major marketing disciplines. Your sponsorship of our Chapter can increase your ROI within our membership; while our events and web advertising can help you gain exposure to the entire Dallas/Fort Worth marketing community.

Get your printing business noticed! We are looking for printers who want to gain exposure to our membership by helping out with printed brochures, announcements, signs and banners. Your goods in-kind donation of these items will create a higher visibility for your company at our events and programs, and introduce your business to attendees. 

Beyond Borders, Global Marketing Summit 2009 Sponsorship Packages

• Platinum $10,000
• Gold $5,000
• Silver $2,500
• Bronze $1,500
• Exhibitor $500

If you are interested in brand awareness, lead generation, or client retention, we can offer you a sponsorship package that is tailored to fit your goals. For ideas on how the D/FW AMA can help your business expand, contact Kim Garlitz, VP Sponsorships, at 469-449-4273 or e-mail kim.garlitz@gmail.com.