6 Reasons to Join Your Local Chamber of Commerce

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There are many advantages for a small business to join local Chambers of Commerce. Take a look at why you should join.

In order for small businesses to grow, they need to network. They need to form relationships outside of their company and take part in their community. There are many advantages for a small business to join local Chambers of Commerce. Take a look at why you should join a Chamber of Commerce.

Networking

People do business with people they “know, like, and trust”. The Chamber offers members many ways to network including breakfasts, lunch seminars, business after-hours, Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting ceremonies, and other special events. Every person you meet has the ability to connect you to (potentially) hundreds more people. That means your professional network grows exponentially with each person you add. A strong professional network can introduce you to potential clients and trusted service providers and more. The chamber initiates more business-to-business commerce and more opportunities for networking and connecting local professionals than is available through most other local organizations.

Visibility

As a new member of the Chamber, you will be listed in the Chamber e-newsletter, and on social media and have the opportunity to be highlighted in other chamber publications. You can grow your business by advertising with the chamber and sponsoring events. Chamber events are innovative and fun ways to help members meet potential customers, clients, and vendors— and generate new business leads. The more events you attend, the more visible your company will be to the community.

Credibility

Membership brings credibility to your business. Many members of the community consider a Chamber membership to be a sign of a reputable and solid business. Consumers are more likely to do business with a company if it’s a member of their local Chamber. According to a research study by The Schapiro Group, Inc. and Market Street Services, when consumers know that a small business is a member of their local Chamber, they are 44 percent more likely to think favorably of it and 63 percent more likely to purchase goods or services from the company in the future.

Discounts

As a Chamber member, you have access to the member database. This is a great way to reach out to other members, network, and make referrals. You will also gain access to members-only discounts and services. You can list any news, promotions, or events through the website and database system and offer other members discounts on your services.

Have a Voice

The Chamber represents the local business community, giving a voice to the membership’s ideas and needs. Chambers take on the tough issues and may oppose new regulations, taxes, assessments, and costs that will negatively impact small businesses.

Learning

The Chamber has opportunities for members to attend training sessions, workshops, and seminars that will help your business succeed, such as sales, marketing, social media, networking, and more.