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Text Box: STC LINES—April 2006

Member Benefits Update

By PETER EISENHUT, Member Benefits Committee Chair

 

 

 

      The Member Benefit Committee has been working to provide a continuous streak of new benefits to our members. We have 15 projects in various stages from idea to just implemented. Our mission is not only to bring you new benefits, but also to find ways to communicate these benefits to you more effectively.

Recently, members who attended the Spring VoiceCon 2006 Conference were eligible for a 25% discount, before adding in any discount for Early Bird or Team. We hope to have a similar discount for the next VoiceCon Conference.

      Another benefit is the recently updated practice management manual, soon to be made available to all STC consultant members free of charge. See the article on page 8 for more details on obtaining a copy.

      The most recently added benefit is a 10% discount and a special sharing arrangement for subscriptions to TelecomTactics. The TelecomTactics subscription provides the user with access to a searchable web database of communications systems and components.  The user can create and print side-by-side reports to compare specifications.  Product information is updated monthly. 

      As an easy-to-use web-based source for information, TelecomTactics delivers information on over 500 IP PBX, PBX and Key systems and associated applications, including voice mail, unified messaging, ACD, contact center, CTI, in-building wireless and hospitality.  The subscription also includes a monthly newsletter, vendor profiles, and call in support. Click on www.telecomtactics.com to view a product brochure regarding this unique and useful benefit.  While there, be sure to review the “Terms and Conditions” agreement. 

      Are there benefits that you would like to see?  Let me know.  Contact me directly on 410-740-0296, or at eisenhut@comcast.net.

 

 

 

       The Membership Committee has worked hard to develop the STC Mentoring Program. Mentoring is an extension of the blue dot program we use at our conferences. When we look at the members who have been a part of the STC long-term, we find that a common thread for most is their participation in the organization. Time and again, members will talk about how important the relationships with other members in the development of their practices. The window of opportunity for showing new members the value of this organization is one year or less.

       We recognize that not all STC members want to be or are suited to be mentors, and that not all new members need or want a mentor. With this in mind, we have developed the following guidelines to assist existing STC consultant members in deciding whether they would like to participate.

Mentorship Program Guidelines

       The goal of mentorship is to develop a resource that will help retain the new member long-term by getting them involved in the organization within their first year. The four primary responsibilities of an STC Mentor will be to encourage new members to:

1. Build relationships within the STC. Members will tell you that one of the most valuable benefits of the STC are the network and joint venture projects that have resulted from getting to know members.

2. Feel encouraged to join a committee.  The monthly conference calls not only gives them a better understanding of how the organization works but, helps them establish a relationship with members and increases the desire to attend the next conference.

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The Membership Committee’s New Mentoring Program

By DIANE BROWN,  Membership Committee