The Relationship Revolution

Giving Program Approaches $30,000

Pretty exciting! As we near the end of July, the total donations to the American Cancer Society are approaching the $30,000 mark. And we still have a few months to run. This phase of our Giving Program, now in its ninth month, has triggered great response from our member agents and their customers.

If you're not familiar with it, read a quick explanation of how it works here. The agents do the grass-roots work in the customized campaign we created, and we donate a portion of their membership fee in honor of their most valuable clients. The money goes directly to the American Cancer Society (this campaign's chosen charity) and/or any local 501(c)(3) foundation. The customers so selected are very moved by the gesture. One Florida agent reported that one of her clients literally ran out to thank her when they saw her passing in her morning jog. Almost all of us have been touched either directly or indirectly by cancer, and it's great to have a chance to support research for a cure.

We initiated the Reach Out program after the events of 9/11, and have reinstituted many times since for different worthy causes. The enthusiasm is contagious! I've heard more than one agent say this campaign was the tipping point in their decision to join us. It's an amazing way to give back, and reinforce the bonds of loyalty with their most important clients.

Jumpstart - You're Good to Go!

Many of our most successful Masters attend the Jumpstart series of Webinars every time it fits into their schedules. Like Connie Williams from New York says, "I always hear something I can use!" (And she's been with us since January of '05.)

Connie was in our initial session this week, along with other members who are just beginning - and other long-time Masters like herself. We host a series of these online meetings almost every month, and it's an hour jam-packed with tips on how to use the various elements in our system most effectively and profitably.

In Jumpstart I, we take a detailed look at the contact management features. As I was illustrating the way to send emails to several different groups simultaneously, our Systems Coaches also fielded live questions about whether you can include the same individual in numerous groups (yes) and how the Sweepstakes sign-ups result in updates of participating contacts (automatically). One of the best things about the Jumpstart series is not only the live Q&A, but the additional questions or ideas triggered during the session that can be reviewed later with your Systems Coach.

All our members agree that you can't beat the convenience or the motivation value of these online sessions. Beats having to travel to Dallas for a seminar. We host not only Jumpstarts on the different features, but also Referral Challenge Rallys, Master Q&A Sessions, and Guest Expert interviews among other topics. While I don't get the same charge as I do at live events, it's great to touch base simultaneously with our members across the country and talk nuts and bolts about growing business. And a special thanks to you, Connie; you provide a terrific example!