All new members are given an Ambassador to the Chamber when they first join. Our Ambassador Committee looks to reach out to new members in their first year, serving as an additional resource as long time Chamber members. Ambassadors serve as a trusted voice to new members on how to maximize the Chamber membership, based on the objectives of the new member, and also look to greet new members at upcoming Chamber events.
To get to know your Ambassadors better, we present Carol Singer, owner of Arlington Promotional Products, LLC.
I have been the owner of Arlington Promotional Products, LLC since July 2002.
What are some of the previous jobs or positions that you’ve held?
Before starting my company, I was a consultant with Oracle and Price Waterhouse, and before that I was a special education teacher. So, I guess I’m on my third career.
How long have you been a member of the Chamber?
I joined the Arlington Chamber of Commerce in 2002. I also joined six other networking groups. That’s right, I joined every networking group I could identify!
After 16 years, I am still active in the Arlington Chamber, but the other networking groups have come and gone. Why? The Chamber members get it. They understand the importance of networking, developing strong relationships, and the fact that people prefer to work with people they know, trust, and like.
What do you hope to accomplish as a Chamber Ambassador?
As an Ambassador, in addition to wearing a nifty badge, I get to help new members become acclimated to the Chamber and facilitate their involvement.
What do you think makes someone a good Ambassador?
Someone who likes making connections. That’s what networking is all about.
What events do you participate in as a Chamber Ambassador?
I especially enjoy attending the Business After Business events and make every effort not to miss one. Since the BABs are hosted by a different business each month, they have given me the opportunity to learn about the range of Arlington-based organizations, from banks to hotels to law offices to ice rinks. Without fail, I am either keeping my relationships strong, meeting new people, and/or connecting people to each other.
How has being a Chamber Ambassador impacted you?
Because of my Chamber membership, I have been involved in political campaigns, learned more about the homeless situation during Volunteer Arlington Day, attended swearing in ceremonies for elected Arlington leaders, honored public safety personnel and first responders during the Public Safety Awards, stayed abreast of the issues facing Arlington through the State of the County event, found my dentist, and made many friends.
Why did you decide to become a Chamber Ambassador?
I wanted to make it easier for new members to become acclimated. It’s what some members did for me when I first joined.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my spare time, I attend exercise classes and personal training sessions at the Arlington YMCA, enjoy reading mystery novels, solving crossword puzzles, binge watching with my husband Frank, and taking long walks with Jack, our Jack Russel/Corgi mix.