What is a Chamber of Commerce?
The best way to spread the word about your business is by making connections. Whether you're new to the community or a veteran company that has been around for decades, your reputation grows as you engage in other influential entities within the community.
That's why so many businesses choose to join the chamber of commerce. We are a resourceful organization that is made to help local businesses thrive. Our mission is to promote the growth and success of our area businesses.
So, what is a Chamber of Commerce?
The earliest chamber of commerce in the United States came about on April 22, 1912. They named it the US Chamber of Commerce, and it still exists today. Yet it's not the oldest. The first chamber of commerce ever created came about in 1599 in Marseille, France. Its purpose was to gather merchants, industrialists, traders, and craftsmen in order to discuss and tackle community challenges. The chamber of commerce was a place of unity, even among competitors. Their voice soon became a persuasive power amidst public authorities and the community. So much so that more would pop up throughout the centuries, and even throughout the world.
Local chambers, like ours, tackle both issues and trends taking place in their community as well as offer resources and services to help local businesses succeed. It isn't just a goodwill effort, but an effective strategy.
· 44% of consumers are more likely to think favorably of businesses who are members of their local chamber
· 63% of consumers are more likely to buy products or services from businesses who are members of their local chamber
· Consumers view chamber of commerce members as trustworthy and are 12% more likely to believe their products or services are better than competitors
So, what Does a Chamber of Commerce Do?
Chamber of Commerce organizations are not out-of-the-box, cookie-cutter setups. Every chamber is unique, with different benefits, resources, and opportunities. However, the end goal is the same: to serve as an influential voice and power that stands for the wellbeing of the local business environment. This includes helping to promote local businesses and improve their growth. From regular networking and volunteer events to promotion and marketing packages, your membership will gain you access to opportunities to make connections, meet potential new clients, and gain exposure for your brand.
Here are 8 reasons to become involved and join.
1. Being a Chamber of Commerce Member Gives You Credibility
As a local chamber of commerce organization, we have a reputation for standing up for the local community and its economy. As a result of your membership, consumers trust you more. This leads to more positive impressions of your business. Those seeking products or services related to your own will lean more toward your brand when faced with various options.
2. Chamber of Commerce Memberships Provide Exposure
Gaining exposure is hard, especially if you're a new business. You have to find ways to permeate your brand into the community, so consumers know who you are and what you offer. With a Chamber of Commerce membership, you gain resources that make this much easier. If you browse various chamber websites, you'll note they all house a digital directory. Members are featured on these directories, which are used frequently by individuals and businesses within the area. New members are also given various forms of exposure when they sign on for the first time. This may include exposure through physical newsletters, e-newsletters, social media posts, and other forms of publication.
3. Chambers Provide Numerous Networking Opportunities
There is no lack of networking opportunities through the chamber. From committees to Chamber Chat to ribbon cuttings and more, you'll find various opportunities to connect with other businesses every single month. Most of these events are free or heavily discounted to members, making them an affordable way to network. The connections you make can lead to new customers or partnerships.
4. Chamber Members Receive an Influential Voice on Large-Scale Issues
A Chamber of Commerce does more than serve as a marketing vehicle for local businesses. It has an important role in local government affairs as well. We serve as a voice for the local business owners and industries. This includes addressing issues that may arise with new ordinances, resolutions, fees, taxes, costs, or assessments applicable to the businesses they serve. When you join the chamber, you become a part of that voice. Your role is relevant, and your opinion becomes part of the many contributed voices that form the chamber's views.
5. It's Like a Massive Rolodex of Untapped Contacts
Take a moment to consider just how large your chamber's directory is. We currently have 343 members, that includes business, industries, non-profits, individuals, and organizations. Now imagine having those contacts for your business. How advantageous would it be? The chamber is a community within itself. It brings its members together to not only benefit the community but also to benefit each other. Through various events, you will meet, network, and connect with a wide array of influential professionals. It's up to you to make the connection, of course, but the opportunities are aplenty. Many businesses grow their customer base and their network through chamber sponsored or hosted events.
6. Chamber of Commerce Memberships Open Doors to Referrals
Chambers are businesses just like you. Part of their job is linking companies and individuals to the resources they are seeking. This includes a slew of calls and emails, some of which may be looking for a solution that your product or service can offer. When you're a chamber member, you become one of the organization's resources. When a need arises that your business can help fill, your chamber is likely to refer you. Why? Because that's part of our core mission. We support our members just as our membership supports our daily operation.
7. There are Numerous Opportunities to Engage the Community
Chambers actively arrange and execute events, many of which are covered by the press. By becoming an active member who attends, sponsors, or hosts these events, you can get your moment in the spotlight as well. They are great opportunities for positive exposure. Engage your community and make a difference while promoting your business at the same time. It's a win-win advantage.
8. You Have Affordable Access to Promotional Tools
Most chambers offer promotion and publicity packages to help you grow your business. This may include ribbon cuttings, sponsorships, or advertising. Members are offered these packages at a price that is often much lower than what it would typically cost to execute. It's a perk for being part of the chamber's organization.
Get Involved with Your Local Chamber of Commerce
While there are many events chamber of commerce organizations put on that are free to the public, you reap the best benefits when you sign up and participate as a member. From directory listings to spotlight features, exposure, and sponsored events, you can gain access to valuable promotional opportunities at a fraction of the cost it would take to do them yourself. Plus, a chamber having numerous connections within the community, you will find that your ability to make a local impact grows exponentially. Learn more about our membership benefits and make your plans to get involved.
