Be a Twitter Eagle at May 28 Seminar

Tempe Chamber member Jack Smith of the Social Latte teaches you how to be a Twitter eagle during this May 28 Social Media Seminar class.

Vote in the “I am Free Enterprise” Video Contest

Check out some incredible video and cast your vote for the “I am Free Enterprise” contest. http://bit.ly/aDAN0k

Common Names & Credit Reports

Common Names & Credit Reports

I’ve had it with credit reporting agencies.
When your name is Mary Miller (Ann is my middle name), you get used to regularly checking your credit report for errors – some of which defy logic.
I remember the first time I found an error. I was 20 years old and wondering why I was denied a credit card. Turns out there was an item on my report indicating I had defaulted on a home loan – four years earlier. Even in the rush to loan of the last few years, no one would approve a mortgage to someone under the age of 16.
So I got my Equifax report last week only to discover they changed my first name! Suddenly, all my accounts are attributed to Marilyn Miller, and the only way to fix it is to send them all sorts of documents proving my first name is Mary. Of course, they didn’t need to notify me of the change to begin with, and they didn’t need to justify the change after a 30-year credit history under the name Mary.
Now I know that in the great scheme of things this is a minor irritation, but I’m tired of an industry that’s allowed to assume you’re guilty until you prove your innocence. More and more, everything from insurance rates to employment is based on your credit report. Reporting agencies need to develop higher standards.

Steven MacDonald to Teach May 14 Seminar at Tempe Chamber

As part of our ongoing social media training, we’ve enlisted Steve MacDonald, founder of Practical Social Media to discuss the simple tools used to build a trustworthy, expert online presence so that you top the Google charts and clearly show your expertise.

2010 Business Woman of the Year Finalists Named

The Tempe Chamber of Commerce has announced the three finalists for the 2010 Business Woman of the Year award.
The winner will be announced at the Women In Business Conference & Trade Show on Tuesday, May 218 at The Arizona Grand Resort, 8000 S. Arizona Grand Pkwy.