Business Intelligence
January 25, 2011
Business First Volunteer Spotlight - Maribeth Bland
Each month we highlight one of our more than 80 dedicated Busines First volunteers. This month we shine the spotlight on Maribeth Bland who also shares her best tips for making the most of business interview meetings.
Besides being the Director of Membership for the Chesterfield Area Chamber of Commerce, Maribeth is also the Chesterfield volunteer being recognized for gathering the most information during her BusinessFirst interviews for the 1st program quarter. 
It's the quality of the information gathered during face-to-face meeting with Greater Richmond businesses that is so important. Maribeth's conversational style meant she got on average 86% of all the questions answered. This makes a big difference in our ability to do quality follow up and review aggregate program information.
THANK YOU Maribeth!
I had the opportunity to talk with Maribeth about what makes a great quality interview. Here are her "Volunteer Pro Tips".
BE PREPARED - Maribeth always does research on her selected firms before she goes to the interview. That way she has a good understanding of the firm and can get right to the meat of the conversation. Recent news from a company website or industry publication can be the perfect ice breaker.
INTRODUCE YOURSELF - Include your business card in your letter, along with a note sharing that you're the assigned volunteer. Be timely when working to set your appointment. Strike while the iron is hot!
DON'T BE AFRAID TO GO OFF SCRIPT - Nothing turns a business owner off more that thinking they are being "surveyed". Keep it conversational and know your form well enough to avoid irrelevant questions. That will allow you to focus more time on the issues that really matter to the business person.
LISTEN - This is the company's opportunity to share and we're really interested in their comments and opinions. When the company contact senses that you're genuine, they open up and share even more.
Our focus is always QUALITY over QUANTITY. The quality of the interview and the information gathered goes a long way to make sure the company gets connected to the right resources.
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