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 (41-50)
It can't hurt in my opinion. If you have an active COC, then there are many opportunities to get your business recognized.
Depends on the nature of your business and your client base.. I think its another way to fork out money. :)
yes, I believe it does pay off. The Florence Chamber of Commerce is a great networking organization that can help introduce you and your business to the Florence Community. They offer good services as well to help promote your business as well. I joined and I am so glad I did.
I truly believe it does. The meeting with others in business always helps to make your business a better one and to grow. Networking through your local chamber helps to make this happen.
To the best of my knowledge, ...
There are many other organizations like the Chamber that serve very similar purpose for small business owners - primarily networking and exchanging referrals.
The questions posted would require concrete survey among organizations like the Chamber to obtain quantified data to make a comparison.
What is sure to say is that "experience varies."
I hope this throw light to the topic.
Yes it certainly pays off! BUT it takes work on your part. You or your business development team needs to show up to the events. Be involved and not just expect because your a member that people will automatically use you. The people that say the chamber doesn't work never used the chamber they way they should. Commerce starts at the chamber, you have to take it across the finish line.
My local chamber of commerce was one of the first networking I ever tried as an entrepreneur. It was a good experience and a good introduction to networking (I’m an introvert so it was a nice way for me to meet people without having to talk too much). But as I just mentioned, there wasn’t too many chances to network and absolutely none after they went virtual. If you want your business to grow, you need to put yourself in front of as many people as possible. This is why I found other networking events such as BNI or those on Meetup worked better.