Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce Networking Seminars 2009-2010

How to Use Web 2.0 for Your Business

October 29, 2009 – Creating Your Website on a Budget

8am-9:30am at Howard Johnson Inn & Suites, Hartwick Seminary

$14 member/$18 non-member

When potential customers search the web for your business what do they find? (Try it.) Without a website, you are entirely at the mercy of what others say about your business or, worse, your business may simply not exist. A website is an important part of letting customers know who you are, what you do, and how to find you. In this breakfast seminar we will look at the importance of being on the web and provide step-by-step instructions to get you started. We will look at the basics of domain names, web hosting, and design options, from DIY to professional design firms. We will talk about selecting content, such as text, images, and links. Finally, we will look at easy-to-add bells and whistles like blogs, video, downloads, and e-commerce. Food and networking opportunities included.

December 17, 2009 – Building Your Business Network Online

11:30am-1pm at Otesaga Resort Hotel, Cooperstown, NY

$20 member/$24 non-member

Businesses need other businesses to survive and thrive. The Web provides excellent opportunities to find suppliers, business partners, business advice, and other resources. We will look at online directories, communities of practice, and business networks as resources for your business. Specific examples will include the Chamber website, LinkedIn, and PartnerUp. We will also talk about how to find and participate in niche online communities that fit your needs. Food and networking opportunities included.

January 21, 2010 – Does Your Business Need Facebook Fans or Twitter Followers?

8am-9:30am at Templeton Hall, Cooperstown, NY

$14 member/$18 non-member

There is a lot of buzz around Facebook and Twitter. Some business owners, family members, and friends may already be using one or both services to socialize, share pictures, and play games. But are they more than a diversion? Can they really help you brand your business, attract new customers, and turn them into repeat buyers and advocates for your products or services? We will explore the basics of what these social media platforms are and how businesses are using them. We will also provide a step-by-step guide for getting started and guidelines for use. Food and networking opportunities included.

March 18, 2010 – Using the Internet for Meetings, Calls, and Chat

11:30am-1pm at Tunicliff Inn, Cooperstown, NY

$18 member/$22 non-member

Did you know that you can talk to almost anyone on the planet that has a computer for free? Have you ever needed to share a presentation and collaborate on documents without expensive or time-consuming travel? Do you understand how “chat” is different from e-mail and why chat is a considered a great customer service tool? We will look at web-based communication tools, like Skype, DimDim, and various chat platforms. We will discuss how to use them, what’s free and what’s not, and how they can support customer, employee, and partner communication. Food and networking opportunities included.

April 8, 2010 – Web-based Tools for Your Business

(tentative) at Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown, NY

$14 member/$18 non-member

All businesses have processes that are best managed using software, such as accounting, contact management, and document management. But do you need to buy the software, manage installation and upgrades, and worry that the failure of your computer means loss of critical business information? An increasing number of valuable software applications are now available via the Web. The best part is that many of these applications are free, can enable multiple users (and access from anywhere), and have backup and data recovery built in. We will look at examples including project management from Zoho, office applications from Google, and online storage from Mozy. Food and networking opportunities included.

September 16, 2010 – Web 2.0 Series Finale, Best Practices on the Web

8am-9:30am at Otesaga Resort Hotel, Cooperstown, NY

$20 member/$25 non-member

Wrap up event for the Web 2.0 seminar series. The event will focus on sharing best practices and success stories of member businesses. Food and networking opportunities included.

Members Only: Pre-register today for all six sessions for $90!

Funding to support the Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce 2009/10 Business Seminar Series is provided in part by Otsego County Office of Economic Development.