Why Should You Join Your Local Chamber of Commerce?

How do we meet members of our community outside of an every-day work environment? How do we let our neighbors know that we have the best food at the best prices and we are conveniently located in the neighborhood? We have to make a plan to meet people outside of our restaurant. This includes getting to know our customers - and having them get to know us - by joining a local Chamber of Commerce. What does a Chamber of Commerce do? A Chamber helps to promote the growth of the community. It is an organization primarily made up of volunteers and exists to help businesspeople do business better, and to improve the community through volunteer efforts. The networking and sponsorship opportunities offered through the Chamber helps members do business better and gain exposure; and the festivals and events aid in the development of volunteers and community leaders, and serves as a focus for generating community pride. It all works together to improve the quality of life. A Chamber's business IS business. ? There are many benefits to participating in Chamber–related activities. Perhaps the greatest benefit of Chamber membership is networking - the chance to meet, socialize, interact, and do business with fellow business and community leaders. Activities such as Business Mixers are hosted by a different member each month and provide members with the opportunity to visit with others in a social setting. Additionally, many other Chamber events, while they have a different primary purpose, still include networking opportunities. These can include breakfasts, Lunch’n Learn, and the Business Expo. Finally, membership on any of the various Chamber committees gives you another opportunity to network. Chamber members can participate in high-impact, economical, shared promotions like a business expo, on-line membership directory, business referral list, city maps, business directories, information packets, sponsorship opportunities, and retail promotions. ?New members usually receive a welcome package that includes a ribbon cutting, promotion in the monthly newsletter, and other public recognition. Chambers also provide an easy way to train for leadership roles, through their leadership programs. You can use this skill set in a number of ways at work, with your family and in the neighborhood. Chamber members receive a large return on a relatively small amount of investment. If you have not already done so, visit your local Chamber of Commerce and find out about the community in which you work and/or live. And, don’t hesitate to join. (With thanks to the Pekin, Illinois Chamber of Commerce.)