1. What size credit union should attend?
The classes address issues that apply to all credit unions, regardless of size. The curriculum will focus on marketing strategies and the financial impact of marketing on the credit union as a whole. Students will study methods to create marketing plans and promotions that support the strategic goals of the organization and use spreadsheet tools (from the Virtual Marketing Professor CD students receive as part of the class) to calculate return on investment (ROI) and determine break-even for marketing promotions. Additionally, class size is limited so that one-on-one assistance from faculty will be available daily. Return to Top

2. What topics are covered?
• Managing Change
• Strategic Planning, the Process and Impact on Marketing
• Current Trends
• Analyzing Competitiveness
• Uncovering Marketing Opportunities
• Creating Strategies to Support your Goals
• Branding & Multi-Media
• Emerging On-Line Issues and Opportunities
• Roundtable Discussion & Critique of Image Audits
• Budgeting, Benchmarking & Tracking Costs
• Measuring Marketing Effectiveness
• The Bottom Line
• Gathering Support for Marketing Initiatives
• CEO Panel – Pitching the President
• How to Market Your Ideas
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3. What if I don’t have a degree?
There are no specific educational requirements for the program. Classes are small enough that students from all educational backgrounds can be accommodated. Return to Top

4. Should I attend even though I am not in management?
Anyone responsible for marketing at the credit union will benefit from the information received, regardless of the level of authority. Return to Top

5. I just started at the credit union; do I need more experience to benefit from the program?
No, in fact not as much experience may allow you to be more open minded and willing to accept new ideas. You will also gain a financial understanding of credit unions that will help you to be successful very quickly. Return to Top

6. Are there any special deals for travel or accommodations?
We have made arrangements for a discounted rate for our students with the Hilton Garden Inn Scottsdale, located in Old Town Scottsdale at 7324 E. Indian School Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251. To make reservations, please contact the hotel directly at (480) 481-0400 and let them know you are with LemmonTree Marketing Group. Guest rooms have full amenities, complimentary High Speed Internet, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, sitting area, and oversized desk. The hotel is located on the free trolley line that runs in the Old Town Scottsdale area. The hotel is within walking distance to Scottsdale Stadium, Scottsdale Center for the Arts and Civic Center, and over 70 restaurants, nightclubs, and art galleries in Old Town. Return to Top

7. What is the weather like in the Phoenix area in February and September?
Normal daytime highs in February are in the 70’s and nighttime lows in the 40’s and 50’s. Temperatures in September are generally in the high 90's/low 100's during the day and mid 80's at night (but it’s a dry heat). Return to Top

8. Do I need to rent a car?
The hotel is on the free trolley route and all classes are held within the hotel. Also, there are movie theatres, restaurants, galleries, shops etc. within walking distance, so a vehicle is not a necessity. Return to Top

9. How much after hours time will the project take?
To some extent, this will depend on your teammates and the scope of your project. There is time scheduled on the agenda at the end of every day for work on the project. Faculty will also be available after classes to assist wherever needed. Return to Top

10. What is the dress code?
Business Casual. You will need a jacket or sweater at night in February. Return to Top

11. What is included in the registration fee?
Registration Fee Includes:
• Continental breakfast
• Class dinner one night
• Class materials including the Virtual Marketing Professor CD and the Successful Marketing Strategy from Research to Results textbook. Return to Top

12. Where can I get information on local activities and sites to see?
Brochures are available and you can also find information on line at www.arizonaguide.com; www.scottsdale.gov, www.scottsdaledowntown.com.

13. What materials or supplies should I bring for classes?
Complete and bring the Image Audit you receive in your registration packet. If possible, a copy of your credit union strategic plan, marketing plan and a laptop will also be helpful. Return to Top

14. What business services are available?
The recommended hotel, Hilton Garden Inn Scottsdale Old Town offers FREE high-speed internet access and complimentary 24-hour business center. Return to Top