In most communities around the country, the chamber of commerce is the center of community affairs and a hub for the local economy. These organizations, found at the local, state, and national levels, advocate for businesses, making their interests heard in the social and political arenas. These organizations also galvanize the community through the different events they host throughout the year for diversion and charity.
Business associates benefit from networking opportunities when they join the chamber of commerce. Once businesses pay registration fees, they immediately see a return on this investment by getting the word out about their venture or gaining learning opportunities.
One of the advantages that a business owner gets from these memberships is that the chamber of commerce often offers discounts on insurance, accounting software, marketing, payroll services, and shipping. They can also gain access to discounts on products and services offered by other businesses that belong to the chamber. For example, a member might be hosting a lunch at a chamber member’s restaurant, presenting opportunities to have the event discounted. If a person needs fliers printed, a member who owns a print shop might offer a discounted rate for printing.
Membership to the chamber of commerce also makes business loans accessible. In addition, the chamber of commerce connects with area banks to provide member businesses with information on financial institutions and can vouch for a business’s credibility in paying back the loan.
Joining the chamber of commerce offers a host of marketing opportunities as well. Members can take advantage of advertising their businesses on the chamber of commerce website, in the newsletter, on social media pages, and in other publications. Other marketing opportunities present themselves through sponsorships and fundraisers the chamber of commerce holds for its members or through members' events, bringing awareness to community needs. Businesses also get referrals and can obtain insights on new business opportunities.
Outside of marketing, members receive human resources guidance on regulatory compliance, benefits, and training offered through the chamber of commerce. Some organizations go as far as to offer payroll services for large and small companies. Businesses can also receive cyber threat training to protect their data, employees, and products.
The chamber of commerce also offers its members professional development. Lunch and learns, business seminars, and workshops are just a few ways these organizations benefit business owners who join.
At the chamber of commerce, business members might get information on political action committees that support area business interests. The chamber also advocates for common issues, including taxes, new regulations, assessments, and additional costs.
The chamber of commerce adds credibility to a business. A survey the Schapiro Group conducted found that 49 percent of consumers are more likely to support a business if it belongs to a chamber of commerce. Membership communicates the use of good business practices, care for customers, and involvement in the community.
In order to reap the benefits of chamber membership, it is important that consumers are aware that the business is a member. Displaying membership at the establishment and at community events and in publications are some ways to accomplish this.
