Does it pay off to join a local Chamber Of Commerce?
As you already know, the main purpose of any local chamber of commerce, is to protect and promote the local business community, with its primary goal of helping business owners expand their network.
So, before you consider spending that discretionary income on buying 100 lottery tickets, or tossing them on a club party, consider using that money to join a local chamber of commerce near you.
I/we’ve joined the Sandy Springs Perimeter Chamber (SSPC) and, IT WAS A GREAT DECISION. However, I would like to have your take, in terms of what was your personal experience in joining a local chamber …
Why I am asking/suggesting this (especially if you’re a small business)? Well, there are quite a few reasons, some of which I will mention below:
- You’re provided with multiple networking opportunities, which could generate new connections,
- While exchanging ideas, referrals, and recommendations, you’ll foster & boost your credentials,
- It will increase your exposure and relevancy, especially if you’re looking for a B2B environment,
- As a member, you will get discounts on everything from office supplies, to continuing education,
- You may get certain email lists, as well as first dibs on booths at trade shows and other events.
*Certainly, there are many other benefits than the ones mentioned above, but I just mentioned a few …
** If you are willing to invest some of your money into the stock of ”Opportunity,” rather than that of “Security” then, … joining a Chamber of Commerce is definitely worth your money and time invested …
*** According to a study conducted by the Schapiro Group, 49% of consumers were more likely to think favorably of a local business, if it was a member of the local Chamber, and 80% were more likely to purchase a product or service from a Chamber member.
Source: The Schapiro Group
Answers (21-30)
Transimpex, my Kansas City translation business, has been a member of both the metropolitan Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and 2 or 3 local chambers. The cost of the Greater KC chamber membership is $680/year. That's a lot of money for a small company, and the investment was a complete loss. We went to some meetings; attendance is huge, it's easy to talk to people but it is almost impossible to find companies involved in international business, attorneys or other companies that could use translations. We tried twice and gave up, although I knew a few people in chamber management because at that time, I was still quite involved in the management and newsletter editing for the KC International Trade Council (ITC) and it had the manager of the chamber international dept. as an ex officio member. We then tried local chamber memberships, incl. the suburb where I live. Everyone was small-town friendly, curious, and interested in what Transimpex does and full of admiration but they were not in any business that would ever need translations or interpreting services. So the membership, though fairly inexpensive in comparison to the metro chamber, was still a waste of money and time (also = money.) I found trade association membership (such as the ITC) more focused, and at least somewhat more advantageous. [sorry, previously posted in wrong category]
Being a Chamber member does pay off, specifically if you are an active member, contributing to the community and events within the community. Supporting other businesses through collaboration (common causes/interests) also helps.
If you get involved with joining Chamber activities and work in a Chamber group, then it makes sense to join.
I guess it can’t hurt. But it was probably more beneficial in 1995
If you can become a chamber ambassador you will get a great opportunity to meet businesses that are new to the chamber. Beyond that, follow up is key to how much benefit you will give and receive from any networking group.