Off the Cuff, but on the Record:
Some perspective on Maine’s changing business landscape and what opportunities it holds for consultants. Presented by Carol Coultas, editor of Mainebiz.
Carol will give us her look forward on the state of Maine's business, based on her unique viewpoint.
Carol and ACE President Geoff Lamdin had a most interesting discussion over coffee. Apart from sharing stories of arrival in Maine, Geoff asked her if she could take a look at the business landscape in Maine as if she were standing atop Mt. Katahdin. Could she survey and look into the coming year? Would she share with us HER observations and prognostications? Yes!
They agreed that looking at the past was just that, looking backward. They agreed it would be far more interesting and valuable to look at and talk about Maine's business landscape going forward. What are the opportunities that we have in Maine? Where have we established beachheads for some of these opportunities? What are the hidden gems that are already here? And , how can we all participate in building a more solid, long-term economy?
Carol Coultas assumed the editor’s chair at Mainebiz in October 2008, just in time to have a front-row seat to the greatest recession in 70 years. As editor, she is responsible for the publication of the bi-weekly business journal, Mainebiz; the weekly electronic Portland business community newsletter, Portlandbiz; and the noontime email digest of statewide business briefs, The Daily.
Carol comes to Mainebiz after 22 years with the Sun Journal in Lewiston, where she held positions ranging from investigative reporter to managing editor. Her favorite assignment involved a 10-day trip through Brazil, where she reported on that country’s emerging paper industry and what Maine’s declining industry could learn from it. The ensuing stories won a national writing award from the Society of American Business Editors and Writers in 2007.
Prior to moving to Maine, she and her husband were reporters with newspapers in Massachusetts. They have two children, one of whom is a practicing journalist in Manhattan and the other a semi-practicing student at Northeastern University. When she’s not working, Carol enjoys reading, Project Runway and baking pies.
January Round Table discussion follows immediately after the main meeting. Presenter: Denise Martin, Good For You Coaching, supporting professionals in taking their business to the next level.
DEVELOPING YOUR NICHE
Shotgun approach - take everyone who's breathing? - or develop an niche? - what is the best marketing strategy? Niche marketing has been proven over and over again to be the best way to go, for the easiest and fastest route to success.
So how do you define, develop, and reach your niche? This discussion will focus on the best way to do that using online vehicles, language, and other tools to help you determine your niche (if you are unsure or juggling several choices) and then the all-important connecting with your niche, so you and your services can be found by your ideal clients!
The A.C.E. regular meeting has networking, a buffet breakfast and a speaker. Guests are welcome.
Registrations are required by January 18, 2012. If you want to be included on the registration list at the meeting then you need to register by the due date.
You can pay online by credit card (Visa, MasterCard or Discover NOT AMERICAN EXPRESS!) or mail a check to:
A.C.E.
110 Marginal Way #142
Portland ME 04101
If you are mailing a check, please register here so the system can track the registrants for us. Thanks!
Members: the $22 fee only works if you pay in advance. At the door, it is $28.
