Network of Champions - First Quarter Results and More

By Kyle Morey

Courtesy of Morris Images

3.13.08  One Southern Indiana’s Network of Champions completes its third program rotation for the first quarter of the year at the Calumet Club in downtown New Albany.  Over one hundred significant business leaders and owners were assisted by trained “champion connectors” in making solid connections during this mixer-like format. 

Holding up 6 business cards in her hands, Regions Bank’s Lori Ann Snavely says, “This is one big reason why I participate!  Whether I am giving a 30 second commercial during the first of the series, presenting for two minutes at the second, or networking the way I want to at the third, I always walk away with solid leads!’ 

“What an event!” exclaims Richard Thompson with Semonin REALTORS, a first time guest to the Network of Champions. “I asked for a membership application and signed up right on the spot.”

By the Numbers

As of the first quarter of 2008, the Network of Champions has connected over 400 business professionals through its unique 3-program structure.  Over 150 thirty-second commercials were given, 240 two-minute presentations were delivered, and unlimited connections and handshakes were made. Each event averages 30 guests with a 95% member acquisition rate (guests who attend then sign up for 1SI membership).  Attendees average 10 solid connections per event. 

“But it goes beyond the event”, according to the Network of Champions Chairperson – Lin Schussler-Williams with Warren Technology. “Connections, referrals, and leads are happening for those not even present.  While discussing business with Jerry Faith of Payment Alliance, I referred him to one of my clients to which he followed up and gained a new customer within 3 days.”

Raise Revenue. Lower Costs.

Networking is more than client hunting, it’s about finding business partners that can help lower business costs.  The Network of Champions 3-program format lends business leaders the opportunity to both raise revenue and lower costs.  Through these lead generating programs, companies are encouraged and assisted in finding leads as clients but also cost-effective vendors. 

Which of the Three Programs Do Businesses Prefer? 

“I love the 30 Second Briefing,” states Diane Fischer, Champion Sponsor and CEO of L&D Mail Masters.  “As a business owner I get value by sending my sales staff to give a 30 second commercial to over a hundred potential customers.  It helps train them through hands-on experience and they always come back with leads.” 

“The RoundTable works best for me,” reports Michelle Sollberger with BeechTree IT Solutions. “The ability to give a 2 minute presentation to 18 potential customers is hard to beat!” 

“I can’t choose,” ponders Kate Caufield with Audiacom. “Each program offers a variety of tools for me to connect to my target market and find potential partners.  I like them all!” 

Whether you are looking for leads, partners, vendors, or simply to “talk shop” with your peers, the Network of Champions and its variety of programs will connect you and your business to success, knowledge and growth…one champion at a time.  

About the Network of Champions 

A monthly series of lead generating and relationship building programs geared to help business executives, owners, and professionals connect to decision makers, build a referral base, and brand their product/service. The Network of Champions – sponsored by L&D Mail Masters, Payment Alliance, and Regions Bank/Morgan Keegan – presents three differing networking formats rotating every second Thursday of the month. Programs include the 30-Second Briefing, the RoundTable, and the Morning Mix. Download Flyer