Success in
networking must
be measured
with realistic
expectations.
Shaina Poland
gets that.
Software
customization and
efficiency, after
all, generally doesn’t just happen over
finger food and light conversation. It takes
time to develop client relationships and
build trust. Poland is willing to put in that
time and make friends along the way –
characteristics that have led to recognition
as the 2013 Ambassador of the Year.
“The opportunity to meet someone
face to face – that’s valuable,” says Poland,
account manager for Critical Data
Solutions. “One experience may not result
in business, but it gives business people a
chance to meet me and understand what
our company can do. It also allows me to
have follow-up opportunities.”
Poland joined the Ambassadors a little
more than a year ago, but within just a
few months, others were approaching her
for advice on networking. She frequently
attends Biz-Ness events, ribbon cuttings
and luncheons, but also puts in time
contacting members to describe Chamber
services and receive feedback.
Casual introductions give Poland
an opportunity to discuss Critical Data’s
services. Conversations may trend
immediately toward the prospective
client’s efficiency issues or desire to launch
a mobile app, or they can simply serve as
the groundwork for later discussions.
“The environment (of networking
opportunities) helps me with the
fostering of business connections and
relationships,” Poland says. “I find the
Ambassadors Council to be a huge help
in developing sales and business-tobusiness opportunities – perhaps not
always directly, but the