Bob Harris, CAE The experience of Board Service is an opportunity for learning an array of leadership and business skills that will have long-term benefits. 6 Essential Steps to Stronger People Skills
Inc. If you are a person who is genuinely empathetic, changes are that you are going to end up being a very good people person - and sustain it forever.
Be sure your small businesses are getting all they can out of their chamber membership. Join with the Georgia Chamber's Federation to strengthen the collective voice of Georgia's business community.
How long have you been in the Chamber profession?
2.5 years
How long have you been in your current position?
2.5 years
What do you love most about your job?
Our Chamber hosts a Regional Visitors Information Center. Each day I get to share my hometown's history and stories with visitors from all over the world. They always leave here excited to explore our three museums and enjoy our boutique shops and varied restaurants.
Tell us about your most embarrassing Chamber moment.
I absolutely despise public speaking in formal settings. So this is an easy one...at our last Chamber Awards Banquet, I completely overlooked several important guests in my welcome. These included several Commissioners from neighboring counties who I had to go back up to the podium and welcome.
Which Chamber Executive has had the biggest impact on your career and how?
Debbie Jones of the Thomson-McDuffie Chamber. Although she is slightly newer in her position than I am, she was most helpful with sharing her ideas for membership growth. She also helped guide me on transitioning to ChamberMaster.
What is your Chamber's signature event?
In addition to the Miss Wilkes County Pageant, we also sponsor Mule Day - Southern Heritage Festival. Now in its 37th year, Mule Day is held the 2nd Saturday in October at Callaway Plantation bringing 3,000+ visitors to Washington. How is it run? One word: VOLUNTEERS - tireless and dedicated.
What is your favorite Georgia destination outside of the one you represent and why?
I would have to say Savannah - with its rich history and fabulous architecture from Colonial to Art Deco. It is a culinary and visual cornucopia.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
An architect or history teacher.
