WMMA News Blog

2010 State Career Development Conference

2010-03-07T21:23:00.001-08:00

WMMA Members--

I just wanted to congratulate you all for attending the Conference--I think it was a great experience for everyone, and one which I will personally remember forever. It is your hard work and driven spirit that has kept me going throughout this past year, and I enjoyed meeting and getting to know many of you during the year, and at the State Conference. Please continue to attend WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi events--they will not only benefit your professional growth, but your personal growth as well.

Again, congratulations to everyone--hope to see you in Louisville, KY!

Emily Leonhard

Wisconsin Chapter Handbook

2010-03-02T14:42:00.001-08:00

Here is the Wisconsin Chapter Handbook for everyone to download.LINK

February 25th of the Month Report

2010-02-25T21:56:00.000-08:00

25th of the Month Report
February, 2010

Report submitted by: Emily Leonhard
President & Western Region Vice President
Wisconsin Marketing and Management Association
Delta Epsilon Chi

Hello Chapters and Advisors!
Thank you for submitting your 15th of the Month Report. There is a wealth of great ideas and useful information in these reports—it would greatly benefit your chapter to read through this report. The 15th of the Month Reports are a method to communicate at the state level about what you have been doing at the chapter level. Please take advantage of the information and share ideas with one another. It is a great opportunity to break the boundaries of individual chapters and share success stories throughout the year. You should all be very proud of the information that you submit—it sounds like great things are happening and excitement for WMMA is spreading across the state.

On February 13th, the Western Region Career Development Conference was held at the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire campus. Along with the great competition that took place throughout the day, there was a great judge debriefing session, passport workshop, “The Apprentice” Leadership Workshop, and giveaways from sponsors. I would like to thank all members, advisors, judges, alumni, Michael Siakpere, Gerald Allison, Kevin Ramsell, and Mae Laatsch for attending the conference—we hope you had a great experience!

I’m hoping to see many of you at the State Conference next week. It’s going to be a very beneficial experience for EVERYONE who attends, and will definitely prepare you for the International Career Development Conference in Louisville, KY this year! Visit http://www.concoursehotel.com/ for more information about the hotel and surrounding area.
Last minute State Officer Candidate questions?
If there are any State Officer candidates who have any last minute questions about the events that will occur at State, questions on the State Officer Test, or anything else—please send me an e-mail (leonhaea@uwec.edu) and I would be happy to answer any questions, or direct you to the right person!

After the state conference, make sure to check the WMMA website (Wideltaepsilonchi.org.) new updates and highlights about the conference, as well as the International Career Development Conference!

Here is the list of chapters that submitted the February 15th of the Month Report. If you submitted a report, and it is not listed below, please contact me.

Chapter Name Date Submitted
Chippewa Valley Technical College February 15th
Fox Valley Technical College—Oshkosh February 2nd
Gateway Technical College—Kenosha February 12th
Moraine Park Technical College- Fond du Lac February 4th
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College February 15th
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire February 15th
Western Technical College-LaCrosse February 14th

If you have any questions, please feel free to e-mail/call me at any time. I wish you all the best in all of your endeavors this spring. Please take the time to read through all of the 15th of the Month reports—it will greatly benefit you and your chapter. Feel free to forward this e-mail on to Chapter Officers, Members, or anyone else who may benefit from it. See you at the State Conference next week!

Sincerely,

Emily Leonhard
WMMA President &
Western Region VP

Our organization follows a set of principles in which we abide by, and stride to accomplish at the local, state, and national levels. WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi abides by the DECA diamond and its four points: Leadership Development, Civic Consciousness, Social Intelligence, and Vocational Understanding. These are the DECA Diamond Highlights from WMMA Chapters for the month of February:

Leadership Development

This month WMMA Chapters worked hard to recruit new members for the Regional Conferences, as well as for the upcoming State Conference!

•Western Technical College-Lacrosse is preparing to hand out personal invitations to students during second semester, and had a recruitment blitz to recruit new members for upcoming conferences.
•Gateway Technical College-Kenosha has had several meetings this semester to inform the students of our organization. A past chapter president came back to speak at one of their meetings as well.

•University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire set up a booth at the Blugold Organization Bash to talk about our organization, and hand out free t-shirts. They also held an open house to talk about upcoming events for the semester.
•Fox Valley Technical College-Oshkosh recruited new members by using bulletin boards, screen savers on computers, and word of mouth.
•Moraine Park Technical College held their first meeting of the semester, and had pizza for everyone who attended.

Civic Consciousness
Here are some updates on Civic Consciousness activities this year:

•Western Technical College-Lacrosse raised money for a student who had a fire in her home.
•Chippewa Valley Technical College set up a fundraiser “Hot Chocolate for Haiti” to raise money for the relief efforts.
•Gateway Technical College-Kenosha is still working to send 5 disabled children to summer camp. They recently held a benefit concert to raise money for this cause.
•University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is planning civic consciousness activities for the upcoming semester
•Fox Valley Technical College-Oshkosh has been raising money for Haiti relief, and volunteering at the Humane Society.
•Northeast Wisconsin Technical College has been working on the Bid for the Cure cancer event which raises money for the Bellin Cancer Center.
•Moraine Park Technical College has also been working with another campus to help raise money for disaster relief in Haiti.

Social Intelligence

These are a couple events that chapters participated in throughout the state:

•Gateway Technical College-Kenosha went bowling with members who participated in the Regional Conference.
•University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire went to Coldstone with members after a chapter meeting.

Vocational Understanding
With the Regional Conferences in the months of January and February—chapters have been busy preparing their members for the upcoming conferences.

•University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire held the Western Region Career Development Conference in early February. They also held a “Competition Workshop” for their members the week before so they could practice their skills.
•Western Technical College-LaCrosse has agreed to help with a Business Showcase they will be having on campus. They also scheduled a prep night where Alumni help students study for the upcoming conferences. Finally, 14 of their members attended the Western Region Career Development Conference!
•Northeast Wisconsin Technical College held the Northeast Region Conference this year, and had Alumni and CTSO Leadership Specialist Nick Bretl speak at one of their meetings.

Final Thoughts: Western Region Career Development Conference

2010-02-14T09:57:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all who were able to attend the Western Region Career Development Conference this past weekend. I believe this conference was a great success, and I hope everyone was able to practice competition, get feedback from judges, and learn leadership through team building at the Leadership Workshop. I would love to hear your feedback (good or bad) about what you thought of the conference. Again, thanks for joining us!

I would also like to thank all volunteers, advisors, and judges, as well as Nicole Vinson, Gerald Allison, and Mae J. Laatsch for attending the conference.

Hope to see you in a few weeks at the State Conference!

Emily Leonhard
WMMA President &
Western Region VP

Wisconsin State Career Leadership Conference!!!

2010-02-13T06:30:00.000-08:00

March 4-6, 2010

It is that time of the year getting ready for the State Career Leadership Conference, honing your business, marketing and creative skills for the possible journey to the great city of Louisville, KY this year.

If you have taken a marketing or business development class this conference is for YOU!!! There is no other venue that lets you gain the experience to handle the real world of business like Wisconsin Marketing and Management Association and Delta Epsilon Chi.

Delta Epsilon Chi programs and competitions are clustered around six (6) academic areas:
Business, Management & Administration
Marketing & Sales
Finance & Accounting
Hospitality & Tourism
Arts, Communications & Technology
Entrepreneurship

For more information download this PDF or contact one of the State Officers here on the website, or your local school advisor.

I hope you will join us!!

WMMA Viral Marketing Challenge

2010-01-27T20:09:00.001-08:00

Hey everyone--looking for a little fun this winter? Participate in our new event for the State Competition--the WMMA Viral Marketing Challenge. This year's State Officer Team has established a new challenge for our members to show off their skills and create an AWESOME video to promote our organization! The rules are posted below, please e-mail me or the VP of Communications-Eli Gonzalez with any questions.

Good luck, can't wait to see those videos!

Emily

WMMA YouTube Video Challenge

Your challenge is to create a 30 second video incorporating the following elements:
-Live, Learn, Lead
-Why you should join Delta Epsilon Chi
-Louisville, KY
-An object that defines success

The video must be positive, creative, exciting and may not include any references to alcohol, drugs, pornography, or vulgar language. Any music must be original and not copyrighted material.

Teams will include
-1-4 Members
-No more than three(3) videos can be posted per team or individual.

Video must include a Title
Video should be uploaded to the WMMA YouTube Group Link Here!
*Inappropriate content will not be allowed*

Timeline

January 25, 2010-March 1, 2010--Create, produce, and upload your videos.

Competition

The TOP 20 Videos are to be previewed at the opening session at the State Conference in Madison, WI. Members will choose the winner via ballot at the session. With prizes awarded at the Grand Awards Session.

Please visit our website for exact details at this link: http://wideltaepsilonchi.org/viral_marketing/viral_marketing.html

January 25th of the Month Report

2010-01-25T14:31:00.001-08:00

25th of the Month Report

Report submitted by: Emily Leonhard

President & Western Region Vice President

Wisconsin Marketing and Management Association

Delta Epsilon Chi

Hello Chapters and Advisors!

Thank you for submitting your 15^th of the Month Report. There is a wealth of great ideas and useful information in these reports—it would greatly benefit your chapter to read through this report. The 15^th of the Month Reports are a method to communicate at the state level about what you have been doing at the chapter level. Please take advantage of the information and share ideas with one another. It is a great opportunity to break the boundaries of individual chapters and share success stories throughout the year. You should all be very proud of the information that you submit—it sounds like great things are happening and excitement for WMMA is spreading across the state.

On January 23^rd, the Northeast Regional Career Development Conference was held at the Northeast Wisconsin Technical College. Along with the great competition that took place throughout the day, there was a great “Ask an Alumni” session to provide members with helpful information about competing at State & Nationals, as well as what WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi can do for you. I would like to thank all members, advisors, judges, alumni, and Mae Laatsch for attending the conference—we hope you had a fun, beneficial day!

Save the date for the 2010 State Leadership Conference! This year’s conference will be held March 4-6, 2010 at the Madison Concourse hotel. Visit http://www.concoursehotel.com/ for more information about the hotel and surrounding area.

Is someone from your chapter interested in running for a State Officer position this year?

Now is the time to start thinking about running for a State Officer position. Being a State Officer is a wonderful experience for any student going into Business, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, and more! If you have any questions about the state officer positions, and the duties involved—please check out our state website www.wideltaepsilonchi.org for the current State Officer Packet, or send me an e-mail.

Make sure to check out the WMMA website weekly for new updates (Wideltaepsilonchi.org). Here are a few recent highlights of the website:

- Check out the “Resources” section for power points and handouts from the 2009 Fall Leadership Conference in Green Bay, WI

- Overview of the Northeast Region Conference

- State Packet Coming Soon!

The regional conferences are being planned and coordinated by your respective Regional Vice President. The Northeast region still needs to set a specific date for their conference. Conference packets should be available soon for each conference. Please contact your Regional Vice Presidents with specific questions regarding your conference.

Regional Conference Dates:

Southern Region: Saturday February 6^th, 2010

Southern Region Vice President—Alexandra VanAckeren-- WCTC

avanackeren@my.wctc.edu

Western Region: Saturday, February 13, 2010

Western Region Vice President—Emily Leonhard—UW-Eau Claire

leonhaea@uwec.edu

Here is the list of chapters that submitted the December 15^th of the Month Report. If you submitted a report, and it is not listed below, please contact me.

Chapter Name	Date Report was Submitted
Gateway Technical College-Kenosha	January 14th
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire	January 15th
Waukesha County Technical College	January 15th
Western Technical College	January 15th

Sincerely,

Emily Leonhard

WMMA President &

Western Region VP

Our organization follows a set of principles in which we abide by, and stride to accomplish at the local, state, and national levels. WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi abides by the DECA diamond and its four points: Leadership Development, Civic Consciousness, Social Intelligence, and Vocational Understanding. These are the DECA Diamond Highlights from WMMA Chapters for the month of December:

Leadership Development

Although for many, the month of December was cut short for the Holiday Break, chapters still continued to recruit members, and keep current members active and involved. Here are the highlights from the chapters in December:

· Western Technical College-Lacrosse is preparing to hand out personal invitations to students during second semester

· Gateway Technical College-Kenosha hung up flyers promoting their first meeting at the end of January, and plans to have Chapter Officers speak in different business courses.

· University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire planned a Winter Membership Drive, but unfortunately was cancelled due to the weather.

· Waukesha County Technical College posted monthly activities on their blackboard to catch the attention of business students. They also plan to put up posters, and talk to possible members.

Civic Consciousness

Here are some updates on Civic Consciousness activities this year:

· Western Technical College-Lacrosse is planning upcoming bake sales to benefit the ACS Run/Walk.

· Gateway Technical College-Kenosha is planning a raffle in February, as well as food sales in order to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association. They are also working on sending disabled children to summer camp.

· University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is planning civic consciousness activities for the upcoming semester

· Waukesha County Technical College was able to donate many items to the Giving Tree, and they were very proud of their accomplishments.

Social Intelligence

Although December is always busy, a couple chapters held events in order for members to network, and have fun! Here are a few things chapters participated in:

· Gateway Technical College-Kenosha took a trip to the Retired Veterans Association to serve food on Christmas Day, and also went bowling with chapter members.

· Waukesha County Technical College held a holiday party for chapter members. They also plan to continue to hold Monday winter event nights for members.

Vocational Understanding

Many of our members reached out to WI DECA in December and January to help judge their competitions. Here are a few highlights from December:

· Gateway Technical College-Kenosha had 8 members judge the Wisconsin DECA high school division competition.

· Western Technical College sent members to the DECA competition at UW-Stout

· A University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire member judged at the District II Wisconsin DECA competition at Mid-state Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids.

Northeast Region Development Conference

2010-01-24T17:12:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, January 23rd I attended the Northeast Region Development Conference in Green Bay. First of all, I would like to thank all of the participants for attending--I hope you got a lot of insight out of the "Ask an Alumni" Session, as well as the competition itself. I look forward to continue to work with all of you throughout the year, and hope to see many of you at the State Conference. Although I wasn't able to attend the entire conference, it was great to see so many enthusiastic and passionate students. A special thanks to Mae J Laatsch, Nick Bretl, Alumni, Judges, WMMA Advisors, State Officers, and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College for all of their support during the conference. I hope to see many of you at the Western Region Conference on February 13th at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire!

Please feel free to e-mail me with comments/critiques about the NE Conference, as well as any questions about upcoming conferences.

Emily

WMMA YouTube Challenge

2010-01-22T08:11:00.000-08:00

WMMA YouTube Video Challenge

Your challenge is to create a 30 second video incorporating the following elements:
-Live, Learn, Lead
-Why you should join Delta Epsilon Chi
-Louisville, KY
-An object that defines success

The video must be positive, creative, exciting and may not include any references to alcohol, drugs, pornography, or vulgar language. Any music must be original and not copyrighted material.

Teams will include
-1-4 Members
-No more than three(3) videos can be posted per team or individual.

Video must include a Title
Video should be uploaded to the WMMA YouTube Group Link Here!
*Inappropriate content will not be allowed*

Timeline

January 25, 2010-March 1, 2010--Create, produce, and upload your videos.

Competition

The TOP 20 Videos are to be previewed at the opening session at the State Conference in Madison, WI. Members will choose the winner via ballot at the session. With prizes awarded at the Grand Awards Session.

Western Region Career Development Conference

2010-01-13T22:33:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone--

Hope you all had a great winter break! Just a quick reminder for those in the Western Region, the Western Region Career Development Conference is only about a month away On Saturday, February 13th, UW-Eau Claire will be hosting this year's conference where there will be many competitive events, networking opportunities, as well as a visit from National Delta Epsilon Chi Vice President Michael Siakpere!

I am very excited for this year's conference--and those in the Western Region are greatly encouraged to attend. Whether it is your first year or fifth year competing, this year's conference is a great way to polish up your professional skills, or to learn what WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi is all about. Advisors have receieved the conference packet several months ago-but if any members or advisors would like another copy of this packet, I would be happy to e-mail it out before the conference. Please contact me with questions--I hope to see you all there on Feburary 13th for an awesome conference!

Emily Leonhard
leonhaea@uwec.edu

WACTE's Essay Contest

2009-11-18T10:25:00.001-08:00

Hey everyone,

Here's a great opportunity for you to win some cash for the holidays, school tuition, or to fund your trip to Louisville, KY in the spring!

The details are below:

Emily Leonhard

WMMA President &

Western Region VP

WACTE's Essay Contest

WANTED: Passionate secondary and post-secondary staff who LOVE working in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) field! Here's an opportunity to share your story!

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Wisconsin Association for Career and Technical Education (WACTE), we are proud to present the "Why I LOVE CTE" essay contest. All secondary and post-secondary CTE staff employed in Wisconsin are eligible to win $100 cash for writing a short, 500 word essay sharing their story or passion about why they love working in the career and technical education field. Essay deadline is January 15, 2010. For staff essay details and an application, please refer to the WACTE website (right hand side of the front page) at: http://www.wacteonline.org /.

Thank You,

Steve Schneider

WACTE President

Wisconsin Association for Career and Technical Education presents...

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Wisconsin Association for Career and Technical Education (WACTE), we are proud to present the "How has CTE or Tech Ed Influenced My Life?" essay contest. Both secondary and post-secondary students could win up to a $150 scholarship for writing a short, 500 word essay sharing their story about how CTE has made a difference in their lives. Essay deadline is January 15, 2010. For student essay details and an application, please refer to the WACTE website (right hand side of the front page) at: http://www.wacteonline.org/.

Please pass along this important essay contest announcement to instructors, counselors, enrollment management staff, program coordinators, etc. and encourage them to share this announcement with secondary and post-secondary students across Wisconsin!

Thank You,

Steve Schneider

WACTE President

Resources

2009-11-15T22:12:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone,

Make sure to check under the heading "resources" at the top of the page for State Officer workshops from this year's CTSO Fall Leadership Conference. You can share these documents with advisors, chapter officers, and fellow members who missed FLC, or for just a quick reminder about the workshop that was presented.

Good luck this year!

Emily Leonhard

WMMA President &

Western Region VP

Judging WI DECA Districts 2010

2009-11-15T13:04:00.000-08:00

Wisconsin DECA Districts

Hey WMMA members,

If you're interested in judging high school Wisconsin DECA students at their district competitions, feel free to contact the advisors below to receive more information about judging.

District 1, Debbie Stanislawski
January 16, 2010
UW-Stout
stanislawskid@uwstout.edu
715-232-3195

District 2, Eric Siler
January 8, 2010
Midstate Technical College
eric.siler@wrps.org
715-422-7178

District 3, Sandra Meinholz and Sarah Hart Olson
January 16, 2010
Oregon High School
smeinholz@waunakee.k12.wi.us or sholson@spasd.k12.wi.us
(608) 849-2133 or (608) 834-6792

District 4, Mike Rietveld
January 9, 2010
Kimberly High School
mrietveld@kimberly.k12.wi.us
920-687-3024 x6006

District 5, Steve Melzer
January 9, 2010
Kettle Moraine High School
melzer@ahs.k12.wi.us
262-369-3612

District 6, Steve Melzer
January 9, 2010
Kettle Moraine High School
melzer@ahs.k12.wi.us
262-369-3612

District 7, Ray Yankus
Janaury 8, 2010
Milwaukee Schools
yankusrj@mail.milwaukee.k12.wi.us
414-475-8391

It would be GREAT if WMMA members could help judge for Wisconsin DECA this year!

Please let me know if you have any questions!

Emily Leonhard

WMMA President &

Western Region VP

DECA/Delta Epsilon Chi Theme and Logo Challenge 2010-2011

2009-11-13T10:40:00.000-08:00

DECA and Delta Epsilon Chi
Theme and Logo Challenge for 2010-2011

Purpose

Participants in the DECA Theme and Logo Challenge will create and present a theme and logo for DECA Inc. to use during the 2010-2011 school year. The annual theme and logo is used throughout the year for shirts, scripting for sessions, pins, print material, and content for programming.

Awards

DECA will recognize the creators of the best theme and logo with custom apparel from DECA Images.
Eligibility
All DECA and Delta Epsilon Chi chapters are eligible to participate in the Challenge. Teams of one (1) to three (3) members may submit one (1) theme, logo, and supporting written explanation of no more than 100 words. An official challenge registration form must be submitted, along with the theme, logo, and written explanation no later than December 7, 2009 to be eligible for awards.

Procedure

In the DECA Theme and Logo Challenge, participants will:

Create a theme for DECA and Delta Epsilon Chi.

Create a logo for DECA and Delta Epsilon Chi.

Present the theme and logo to DECA staff members in a written explanation. (Tell the story of how your theme and logo relate to our stakeholders.)

All submissions must be printed documents on 8½” x 11” paper. No electronic submissions will be accepted.

Timeline

Theme, logo, written explanation, and registration form due December 7, 2009
Submissions evaluated by February 2010
Winners notified by March 2010
Evaluation Criteria
All entries will be evaluated by a panel of DECA staff members. Entries will be evaluated based on creativity, design elements, functionality of theme and logo, and artistic elements.

Tips

The theme and logo must be appropriate for use in both the high school and college divisions

The name of DECA’s college division is being reviewed this year. It will only change if the voting delegates vote to change it during the International Career Development Conference in April 2010. Therefore, for the purpose of this contest, the name “Delta Epsilon Chi” must be used.

The theme and logo should help promote the organization

The theme should have a clear and concise message

The 2011 International Career Development Conferences will be in Orlando, Florida. The theme and logo does not have to relate to the conference site, although it could.

Disclaimer

If DECA chooses to use the theme and/or logo, DECA Inc. retains the copyright on any submitted material and reserves the right to use the material in any way or format it sees fit. DECA may make artistic adjustments to the winning entry if necessary for ease of use. DECA reserves the right to select multiple winners. All winners will be contacted by DECA no later than March 2010. DECA Inc. is not responsible for lost, damaged, mislabeled or misdirected entries. Entries will not be returned and will become the property of DECA Inc.

Check out this website to print off the registration form. Let's have next year's winning logo come from Wisconsin!!!
http://www.deltaepsilonchi.org/pdf/ThemeLogoChallenge.pdf

Emily Leonhard
WMMA President
& Western Region VP

Professional Dress Tips

2009-11-12T21:40:00.000-08:00

Professional Dress Tips

Whether you’re attending a job interview, professional workshop, or even a WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi event or conference, you ALWAYS need to look your best. Here are a few tips for men and women in order to dress for success!

Women

· Hair

- Clips to hold hair back out of face, or down and neatly combed

- Color compliments skin tone

· Makeup

- Little eyeliner, natural looking make-up, soft colored lipstick

· Top

- Ironed blazer and blouse, not revealing

· Bottom

- Skirt to knees, ironed pants, and nude nylons

· Shoes

- Small closed toed heel (no more than 2’’) Also, make sure your shoes are polished.

· Suit Color

- Darker blue/black. Skirted suit is the more conservative choice.

· NO GUM!

· No more than 5 items of jewelry, no more than 1 ring per hand, avoid dangle earrings

· Clean and cut nails, no bright polish

· Light perfume

· Cover any visible tattoos

Men

· Get a haircut before attending any interview or WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi event

· Face

- Cleanly shaven or neatly groomed facial hair

· Top

- Collared shirt, solid white or French blue. Always wear long sleeves—cuff extends ¼’’ below suit sleeve

· Suit

- Blue or black, solid or pinstripe, tailor fit

· Tie

- Matches shirt, not wrinkled, tied properly

· Pants

- NO CARGO PANTS, ironed dress pants, belt and shoes must match or complement each other

· Shoes

- Brown or black professional shoes, polished

· Socks

- Should compliment suit, should cover skin when legs are crossed

· Light cologne

· Fingers: Clipped and Clean

· Jewelry: Watch is acceptable, take out any piercings

For more information visit these helpful websites:

http://www.neckties.com/content/howtotieatie.html --> For help on how to tie a tie

http://www.stcloudstate.edu/careerservices/studentalum/documents/Handout06.pdf --> Detailed tips for women’s professional dress

http://www.stcloudstate.edu/CareerServices/studentalum/documents/Handout07.pdf --> Detailed tips for men’s professional dress

Emily Leonhard

WMMA President

& Western Region VP

Wideltaepsilonchi.org

12 Interview Tips

2009-10-08T10:25:00.000-07:00

1. Suit Up! Dress to impress as you can never overdress. Polish your shoes, be well groomed, and make use of a lint roller.
2. Print out driving directions and be on time.
3. Research the company and position your being interviewed for. Know the company history, their product/service and what the position
entails.
4. Don't be caught chewing gum, sucking on a mint, playing with your pen or papers.
5. Do a little research on typical interview questions and prepare yourself with a response to each.
6. Elaborate on your responses to their questions. Avoid giving short or one word responses.
Try to ask appropriate questions like: How would my performance be evaluated in this position?, Will there be any formal training provided?, etc.
7. Pack a pen and extra copies of your resume in a professional binder or portfolio.
8. Tell the interviewer why you are a great candidate for the position.
9. Provide quick, genuine responses. Don't be afraid to ask the interviewer to repeat a question if need be. Also, don't be shy if they ask you to recall something from memory and you need to ask for a moment to think back but still make sure to be quick.
10. Shake the interviewers hand on the way in and out and be appreciative of their time.
11. Follow up. Write a hand written letter: thanking the interviewer for their time and if possible try to remind them of your interview. Stand out by hand delivering the sealed letter to their office.
12. At the end of a typical interview you will be asked: "Do you have any further questions?" Respond with a question like: "What is the next step in the interview process" Their response will give you a good idea of what is to come and how long you will have to wait for a response. You might even get a feel for what your chances are.

Patrick Gavinski
Executive Vice President
WMMA

How to Build Unity within Your Chapter?

2009-10-01T13:31:00.001-07:00

There are many ways to create unity within your chapter whether going to sporting events together, making chapter t-shirts, or having movie nights. Creating unity within your chapter makes every member feel like they are wanted at all of the events. Creating unity within your chapter also helps increase membership and retention. Invite your chapter members to help with the preparation of these chapter events and get everyone included. Remember DEX is not only about vocational understanding and civic consciousness but social intelligence and leadership development. Creating unity will also get new members involved and what to possibly become a chapter or state officer. Help your chapter members grow and get them involved with as much as possible because they will then recruit their friends to become members.

Delta Epsilon Chi Week

2009-09-29T12:18:00.001-07:00

First, I would like to welcome all new members, returning members, advisors, and alumni to another fantastic year of WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi! This year will be filled with opportunities to develop professionally, network, compete, travel, and meet students all across Wisconsin who share the same interests and career goals as you. Students in WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi really are today's students that are tomorrow's leaders. This organization not only enhances what you learn in the classroom, but also what business professionals want you to know for the 'real world.'

I'm very privileged to be working with an incredible State Officer team this year. We have all been working hard to ensure that this year is great for all of our members. The website is up and running, and there will be new information streaming in on a weekly basis.

Mark your calendars everyone, because the 2009 Fall Leadership Conference is quickly approaching! This year's conference will be October 27th-28th at Hotel Sierra, in beautiful Green Bay WI! As the kickoff to our WMMA year, you have the opportunity to attend workshops presented by Leadership Specialists, Keynote Speakers, and WMMA State Officers, network with WMMA chapters and other Career Technical Student Organizations, and have a blast during our latest and greatest entertainment night—the "Olympiad 2." Also, at Fall Leadership Conference, we will be unveiling a brand new event that will be taking place at the State Career Development Conference in March. Be sure to register before October 5th—you won't want to miss this!

If you haven't already, I'm sure your chapter will be having its first meeting of the year within the upcoming weeks. Now is the time to recruit new students to attend your meetings and events. Although recruiting new members can sometimes be a challenge, our newest post on the WMMA website "Top 32 Ways to Recruit Members," jumpstarts your recruiting process with some great ideas for your chapter to try. If you would like to share ideas that worked for your chapter in the past, or have already worked this year, please feel free to e-mail me, and we'll get those ideas up on the website as well.

After your chapter has found its potential members, share with them all of the great opportunities you've had while being a part of WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi, and inform them of the great events they can be a part of this year (Fall Leadership, Collegiate Leadership Academy, ICDC, etc.). All in all, continue to accomplish the four points of the DECA diamond during chapter activities and you will be off to a great start this year.

Finally, I'm hoping all of you will continue to Live, Learn, and Lead to our fullest potential with WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi this year!

15 Tips on Making Business Cards

2009-09-29T12:16:00.001-07:00

Greetings fellow Delta Epsilon Chi members,
I have found another wonderful topic to discuss that I think will benefit you greatly. I believe networking is a huge part of future success. While attending the Fall Leadership Conference in Green Bay next month you will be introduced to many business professionals. I think it is a great idea to have business cards prepared and ready to hand out. So…. here are 15 tips on making business cards. Check it out!

15 Tips on making business cards

Make sure the information on your card is correct.
Put your most important information in the focal point (the focal point is usually in the center of the card or where there is bigger print or a design).
Consider the psychology of colors listed below:
Include your picture. It is easier for the business professional to match a face with the name.
Vertical cards are different and will catch the eye.
Color backgrounds catch the eye more than white backgrounds.
Designs and pictures can often draw attention.
If your business/organization name does not clearly state what it is, you may want to list a few services that it provides.
Use both sides of the card (possibly tutorials, services, your bio, etc on the back).
Make sure your card says something about you and what you bring to the business/organization.
Make sure the important information (contact) is easy to find.
ALWAYS include your email and website address.
Include your logo.
Don’t use too many fonts or try to cram too much information.
ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS make sure to spell check.

Spend the extra money for a professional printed card.
For examples visit:
http://tutorialblog.org/creative-business-cards/
http://www.lifeclever.com/584-ways-to-design-a-business-card/

For more tips on making and presenting visit:
http://visualaccentsdesign.com/designtips/50surefire.htm

I hope this helps when making your business cards. See you at Fall Leadership next month!
Nicole Vinson
WMMA State Secretary

Spin Selling

2009-09-23T07:21:00.000-07:00

I was introduced to the SPIN selling model in my Advanced Sales class last year and I used it for the Sales Representative competitive event at the state and national levels. It is new in the business world, but it will set you apart from the competition when you compete. Check it Out!

What is SPIN selling?
After much research, studies show that in successful sales calls, the buyer does most of the talking, so SPIN selling gets the buyer to talk by asking questions. It asks four kinds of questions: Situation, Problem, Implication, and Need-Payoff. These four questions create a problem, so you can solve it (just read on, you’ll understand).

A Few Facts about SPIN Selling
• It is a set of ideas about how to sell successfully in large or complex sales.
• It is based on the most extensive research ever carried out about effective selling.
• More than half the Fortune 100 companies use it to train their sales forces.

Situation Questions
Definition: Finding out facts about the buyer’s existing situation.
Examples: “How many people do you employ at this location?” “Can you tell me how the system is configured?”
Impact: These are the least powerful question, but they are needed for SPIN selling. Don’t ask too many. A good amount to ask would be two to three questions.
Advice: Eliminate unnecessary Situation Questions by doing your homework in advance.

Problem Questions
Definition: Asking about problems, difficulties, or dissatisfactions that the buyer is experiencing with the existing situation.
Examples: “What makes this operation difficult?” “Which parts of the system creates errors?”
Impact: These are more powerful than Situation Questions. People ask more Problem Questions as they become more experienced at selling. A good amount to ask would be three to four questions.
Advice: Think of your products or services in terms of the problems they solve or the buyers- not in terms of details or characteristics that your products possess.

Implication Questions
Definition: Asking about the consequences or effects of a buyer’s problems, difficulties, or dissatisfactions.
Examples: “What effect does that problem have on output?” “Could that lead to added costs?”
Impact: These are the most powerful of all SPIN questions. Top salespeople ask a lot of Implication Questions. A good amount would be five to six questions.
Advice: Think of Implication Questions as cause and effect questions.

Need-Payoff Questions
Definition: Asking about the value or usefulness of a proposed solution.
Examples: “How would a quieter printer help?” “If we did that, how much could you save?”
Impact: Versatile questions are used a great deal by top salespeople. There is a positive impact on customers who rate calls high in Need-Payoff Questions as helpful and constructive. A good amount would be two to four questions.
Advice: Use these questions to get buyers to tell you the benefits that your solution can offer.
Note from Nicole
The SPIN selling model is a new and fun way to sell, but it must be done correctly. If you are going to use this model, make sure you do your research thoroughly. For more information on SPIN selling, here are a few websites to check out:
http://www.articlealley.com/article_30714_15.html
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art19745.asp

Good Luck,
Nicole Vinson
WMMA Secretary
Wisconsin Delta Epsilon Chi

President's Message

2009-09-22T11:35:00.000-07:00

First, I would like to welcome all new members, returning members, advisors, and alumni to another fantastic year of WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi! This year will be filled with opportunities to develop professionally, network, compete, travel, and meet students all across Wisconsin who share the same interests and career goals as you. Students in WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi really are today’s students that are tomorrow’s leaders. This organization not only enhances what you learn in the classroom, but also what business professionals want you to know for the ‘real world.’

I’m very privileged to be working with an incredible State Officer team this year. We have all been working hard to ensure that this year is great for all of our members. The website is up and running, and there will be new information streaming in on a weekly basis.

Mark your calendars everyone, because the 2009 Fall Leadership Conference is quickly approaching! This year’s conference will be October 27th-28th at Hotel Sierra, in beautiful Green Bay WI! As the kickoff to our WMMA year, you have the opportunity to attend workshops presented by Leadership Specialists, Keynote Speakers, and WMMA State Officers, network with WMMA chapters and other Career Technical Student Organizations, and have a blast during our latest and greatest entertainment night—the “Olympiad 2.” Also, at Fall Leadership Conference, we will be unveiling a brand new event that will be taking place at the State Career Development Conference in March. Be sure to register before October 5th—you won’t want to miss this!

If you haven’t already, I’m sure your chapter will be having its first meeting of the year within the upcoming weeks. Now is the time to recruit new students to attend your meetings and events. Although recruiting new members can sometimes be a challenge, our newest post on the WMMA website “Top 32 Ways to Recruit Members,” jumpstarts your recruiting process with some great ideas for your chapter to try. If you would like to share ideas that worked for your chapter in the past, or have already worked this year, please feel free to e-mail me, and we’ll get those ideas up on the website as well.

After your chapter has found its potential members, share with them all of the great opportunities you’ve had while being a part of WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi, and inform them of the great events they can be a part of this year (Fall Leadership, Collegiate Leadership Academy, ICDC, etc.). All in all, continue to accomplish the four points of the DECA diamond during chapter activities and you will be off to a great start this year.

Finally, I’m hoping all of you will continue to Live, Learn, and Lead to our fullest potential with WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi this year!

Emily Leonhard
WMMA President

TOP 32 Ways to Recruit Members

2009-09-11T11:30:00.000-07:00

Here are a few ideas you, and other students can plan to recruit potential members:

For every (# of members) paid members you personally recruit, you get some amount of money off of your membership fee
Insert DEX bookmarks in textbooks at campus bookstore/library
Visit this website for sample brochures http://deltaepsilonchi.org/pdf/bookmarksrecruit.pdf
Create a chapter webpage link off of WMMA site
Create chapter webpage off of student organizations website
E-mail business students via .edu e-mail
Conduct open house/socials before actual DEX meetings
Write on boards in classrooms—When and where open house and meetings are
Use DECA College Connection to contact more interested students on campus
Put up flyers/leaflets in classrooms and bulletin boards
Speak about kickoff meeting in business classes
Advertise “free food” at your meetings (College students LOVE that!)
Go to first year/freshman orientation and recruit new interested students
Set up a booth at club day/student organization fair
Set up a display in a trophy case at school, or on bulletin boards in the hallways
Send out a press release to school newspaper/local newspaper about start of chapter and what it will bring to the area
Contact student services to put up announcements on the TV system in school
Provide student counselors a set of promotional materials to students who express interest in marketing, management, business, etc.
Have a kick-off cookout in the middle of your campus
Talk to local high school marketing classes in order to recruit new students for next year
Put up signs in dorms, and on campus apartments, put flyers in student mailboxes
Get an article in the student newspaper/school website/local newspaper about your new organization
Advertise on campus news station/radio station
Bring a friend to a meeting
Secure a display window/trophy case/bulletin board for your chapter to display upcoming events and past pictures/awards
Conduct a visible community service event on campus
Sell Homecoming shirts sponsored by DEX
Sponsor a raffle where the proceeds will go to charity
Visit the DECA Images section of the national website. Order banners, pens, recruitment brochures, and other promotional materials
Plan events during DECA/Delta Epsilon Chi week—October 11-17, 2009
Talk to roommates, classmates, and former DECA members about joining
Use websites like Facebook, Myspace, and Twitter to search for people with DECA/Delta Epsilon Chi as an interest

Hopefully this list will get you thinking about all of the ways you can get students to think about joining WMMA/Delta Epsilon Chi!

Emily Leonhard
WMMA President

From Mae J. Laatsch

2009-09-10T11:24:00.000-07:00

Congratulations on the start of a new year in which you will have the opportunity to LIVE,LEARN, and LEAD in The WI Marketing & Management Association affiliated with Delta Epsilon Chi, the college division of DECA. The above is the theme for the 2009-2010 year. Below are the dates for the year's activities -- mark them on your calendar. Learn to look to the website: wideltaepsilonchi.org.

It is with deep regret that I announce the resignation of the President of WMMA. It was for personal reasons that he felt it necessary to resign his position. We wish him well in all his future endeavors.

According to our constitution, the ranking vice president is then asked to step into a new and additional leadership role. It is my pleasure to announce that Emily Leonhard had accepted that challenge and is the new President of WMMA. She will also continue to serve as the Western Region Vice President.

Now the next news. I learned that I am in the hospital and dying - sorry to disappoint you - but I am alive, well, and healthy -- well almost. I have had a few challenges but nothing that will prevent from outliving any you even if I have a heart murmur. You may not recognize me at the next conference but I will be the one with the "Big Mouth."

Just some information for the future - all the Delta State Advisors agreed that whatever the name change will be for this division at the International level - all the States will adopt the name. We agreed on College DECA but this will not happen until the DECA Inc. Board meets in the spring. There will come an amendment to be voted upon at the State Conference and we can also vote to do a name change for us with a proviso that it will begin when it is passed at the National level. There may be members from China and Germany as well as Canada in Louisville next spring.

"Thunder Over Louisville" will be at the international conference in April. We need to be in by Friday if you do not wish to carry your luggage 6 blocks to reach the hotel. We are at the Galt House again and it has been completely remodeled and is now beautiful.

The deadline dates for the CTSO Fall Leadership Conference are:
October 5, 2009 - $10.00 penalty for registration 10/6/09 until October 27; 50% refund until October 15, and no refunds after October 15 but substitutions will be allowed. You will register the same as you did for State - I will give you another website and use the same password as before. You can make your own changes until Midnight on October 19 - then you will have to email me the changes.

You should have the Fall Packet over the weekend.
Hotel will be $115 for singles, $110 1-6 in the room.
Registration is $95.00 per person.

Mae J. Laatsch
Executive Director-WI Marketing & Management Association

Welcome Members

2009-09-06T06:13:00.001-07:00

This is an update for all members, advisors, and alumni. Here are the current dates for this year

Fall Leadership Conference
October 27-28, 2009
Green Bay, WI

Southern Region Career Development Conference
February 5, 2009
Waukesha County Technical College
Waukesha, WI

Southern Regional Recruitment Event
December 4, 2009
Waukesha County Technical College
Waukesha, WI

Wisconsin State Career Leadership Conference
March 4-6, 2010
Madison Concourse Hotel
Madison, WI

Delta Epsilon Chi International Career Development Conference
April 16-21, 2010

I would like to encourage the chapter officer teams, members, alumni and advisors to please comment. Let us know what kinds of things you would like more info on.

We will be updating this news blog every two to three days with information concerning WMMA and Delta Epsilon Chi so you can subscribe to the RSS Feed on the right hand side.

I appreciate all of your patience and understanding has we attempt to become a better Officer Team for the good of you the members.

Thank You,
Eli Gonzalez
Vice President of Communications