MEET YOUR AMBASSADOR: Michelle Ellis, FORUM Credit Union
Meet Aspire Ambassador Michelle Ellie with FORUM Credit Union! Michelle has been an ambassador for 2 years. Here are some things to know about Michelle:
1. As an Ambassador of 2 years, how has it been beneficial to you and your business?
I have met the most amazing people, within Aspire and the Johnson County community. I’ve had the unique opportunity to make contacts with so many local businesses and services, which in turn has helped me better serve my members in countless ways.
2. What excites you about being an ambassador?
Did I mention all the amazing people? Whether it’s within the Aspire organization, fellow ambassadors, business owners, charitable org operators, educators, or a presenter at one of the many Aspire events… I think it’s the breadth of people that I’ve had the honor to meet, and hear their stories, that I find most inspiring. As an ambassador I have the exciting opportunity to help connect new members to all this greatness.
3. Can you remember a favorite moment during your time as an Ambassador that sticks with you?
I’d have to say the honor of being chosen to spotlight this month … there are so many other deserving Ambassadors. I have so much I can learn from those that have come before me. I’m humbled by the nomination.
4. What advice do you have for professionals trying to connect with other professionals.
I’d have to say don’t be afraid to get outside of your comfort zone! I say this as I needed to hear it myself. Walking into an event with a room full of unfamiliar faces, with the sole intention of meeting others and telling them about you, could be intimidating for some – put on your best smile and practice that quick introduction and remember that the majority of us feel exactly the same way.
5. Do you have any good networking tricks or habits you have that have worked for you when you are networking?
Well, I’d have to lean on to getting outside of your comfort zone as you can, and I’ve found as a best practice that following up with new contacts just after a networking event as helpful in keeping in touch with that new contact in the future. Whether via email or even social media (i.e. LinkedIn) in some cases, it gives the prospective business contact 3 points of reference: in person/face to face; business card; and email/online. It builds a foundation for future contact.
6. What is your favorite color?
I find choosing ONE color difficult; it often changes with my mood – but TODAY I CHOOSE GREEN!
7. Tell us something you love to do as a hobby or a favorite vacation spot.
Art is therapy for me… drawing, painting, coloring or creating – that is my happy place. A favorite vacation spot is New York City – a stroll through Central Park or Broadway show is good for the soul.
8. What is your favorite thing about Aspire?
I cannot be grateful enough for the thoughtful detail, hard work and time that goes into the countless events put on by the Aspire team. I think one of my personal favorites is the Aspire Women Leader’s Workshop. It is the discovery and inspiration I take with me from that event that is unmatched. A friend and colleague went with me to my first one, and we’ve had the opportunity to grow in our involvement and we look forward to that event each year!
Thank you so much, Michelle, for caring for your fellow members and their development with Aspire.