Tallahassee Chamber Program Helps Young Professionals
Published in the Tallahassee Democrat on July 22, 2011
By Dana Edwards, Special to the Chronicle
After graduating from college, young professionals can have a rough time transitioning into their decided careers. Through Access Tallahassee, The Tallahassee Chamber assists individuals
between the ages of 21 to 40 build business relationships, network with others in the same position, develop personally and professionally, and become a part of the business community.
“The program helps these younger professionals stay in Tallahassee and be a valuable asset to the community; this really builds a base early on in their careers,” said Dana Noles, director of events and chair of Access Tallahassee. “Each of their careers runs the gamut from nonprofit
businesses to real estate to insurance — you name it!”
Access began in 2006 and has since gained more than 300 members. With no formal entrance and graduation like Leadership Tallahassee, a separate Chamber program, young professionals are
able to use the benefits of their Access membership each year they renew.
Benefits include an online job board, interactive blog, member calendar, professional growth tools. and events each month such as Access To The Issues, Business Etiquette, Speed Networking and Power Lunches.
“Access has been such a great opportunity for me to connect with easily relatable individuals who are all in the same position,” said two and half-year Access member Nick Williams, an account manager at MCCi.
“I’ve been able to help the community through volunteer work with the 211 Big Bend Extreme Agency Makeover and hospice in addition to gaining valuable networking skills with politicians,
businesses and established Tallahasseeans.”
Professional skills such as developing an elevator speech, learning about product research, discovering how to start a business, financial planning and leadership skills in the workforce are provided by guest speakers at quarterly power lunches of 20 to 25 members. Members even
engaged with local legislators over the post-legislative session this year.
“Come to the events and learn new skills, but stay for the open and welcoming comaraderie between all the members and speakers,” said Williams.
Join the next Access event tonight for Cocktails and Connections. For more information visit the Access website at www.accesstallahassee.com. If you are interested in becoming an Access member at any time, complete the application form on the Access website and start attending events.
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