Is there an information session where I can ask more questions about
the program?
Yes. We will be having an information session about the
program ( several short presentations followed by Q&A ) on Thursday,
October 13th, at 11:15 am., 12:15 p.m. and 1:15 p.m. at the Shelburne CBDC
Conference Center. Please join us for one of the information sessions.
If I complete the application form am I guaranteed a place in the program?
Completing the application form is only the first step. To ensure that participating businesses get the most out of the program, we also arrange an initial discussion between you and an ACSBE business counsellor. If your business turns out to be a good fit for GetConnected, you will be accepted into the program.
What is the cost?
The program costs $200 plus HST per business, plus your time and commitment, payable upon full acceptance into the program.
What do I get for $200?
- An action plan for growth.
- Experienced business counsellors, trainers and experts in their field.
- An understanding of the potential of the Internet for growing your business.
- Participation in a learning community and peer network of like-minded business leaders.
- Support during the period of the program help you connect what you learn in the program to what will work in your business.
When does it start?
The program starts with a meeting of participants in Shelburne on November 14th and 15th, 2011. The remainder of the program will be delivered online, except some face-to-face meetings with a business counsellor and a wrap-up one-day meeting.
How will the program be delivered?
The program will combine business counselling sessions with online learning modules using the following tools:
- An Online Learning System
- Web conferences
- Face-to-face business growth coaching sessions between you and your assigned business coach.
I have a previous commitment during part of the program. Do I still qualify?
Yes. We understand that the program requires a major time commitment and that some participants may already have prior commitments. Let us know if you think this will be an issue.
What will a business counsellor do? How often will we meet and why?
A business counsellor will work with you at various stages throughout the program. Together you will continue to develop the growth strategy that you started at the initial workshop. The business counsellor will provide guidance and advice based on your business needs to help you determine where and how you want your business to grow. During the online learning stage of the program business counsellors will be available to help you determine how the technologies you’ve learned in each module relate to the growth strategy you’ve developed.
I’m not comfortable
with technology. How will I benefit from the program?
The intent of GetConnected is to increase your awareness of eMarketing and how it can fit into your business strategy. Although you don't have to be an expert, it will help if you have a basic understanding of computers and the Internet and some comfort using them. Since GetConnected uses technology to deliver the program and for some of its activities, your comfort and confidence with technology will likely grow as you progress.
Do I need experience
in the use of the latest web technologies?
No - all you need is a willingness to learn.
Why does the program cover so many diverse topics?
The complexity
of a business’s online presence has grown dramatically over the past
several years. This program is designed to show how all the components
fit together and help you decide what eMarketing strategy will work
best for your business.
What will I be expected to do each week during the program?
The program consists of online modules that include readings, projects related to your business, and growth strategy development. Some or all of these activities will be done each week and, based on your level of interest in a particular topic area, you may spend from as few as four hours up to eight or more hours on the project each week.
Does the program provide technical support?
We will provide support for questions and issues related to the online learning system. However, other technical support will not be provided.
Do I need high-speed Internet Access?
No. You will be able to download materials faster and complete online activities more quickly if you have high-speed, however you should still be able to particpate in most activities.
Whom do I call if I need more information?
Call Dixie Redmond at 875.1133 or email Dixie.Redmond@cbdc.ca
