by Linda Rink, RINK Consulting

In January we conducted our annual CCPA membership survey, and the results were very positive.  Almost 100 members took our survey (thank you!). We contact our members each year to make sure we maximize your CCPA experience. It’s your chance to let us know which programs you liked the most and what ideas you have for other events and benefits. Here are some highlights from the survey:

• We have a lot of entrepreneurs in our midst — about 25 percent of respondents have been in business five years or less.

• Most of you have joined CCPA for networking and business development and also to learn how to grow your business: marketing, social media and sales tips are your most-requested event topics.

• The Center City Soiree received rave reviews for its big turnout and high “buzz” factor.  Other favorites were the City Leaders lunches and the Apple store tour.

• Linked-In is used by most respondents (80 percent) for business.  Did you know that CCPA has its own Linked-In Group? 62 percent of respondents did.  But less than half (43 percent) were aware of this blog.

Many of you are not taking full advantage of free business development opportunities through CCPA. Here are some good ones:

• Become an ambassador. What better way to increase your visibility at CCPA events than to wear a special badge and officially “meet and greet” attendee?

• If you are 36 years old or younger, become involved with CCPA Young Proprietors. Make CCPA the organization you want it to be.

• Contribute to this blog. It’s a free way to increase your name awareness.

• Become active in the CCPA LinkedIn group.