Some people think chambers of commerce work magic—and in many ways, they do. But to see real results and get the most from your membership, you need to be involved. Joining is a smart move, but the true value comes when you actively engage.
If you’ve been wondering whether you’re making the most of your membership—or if you’re just starting out and you’re not sure how to get the most out of it—here are ten practical ways to tap into the value your chamber offers.
1. Show Up and Be Seen
The simplest way to maximize your membership is to attend events. Networking events like Morning Mingle, ribbon cuttings, educational workshops, and larger events like Chamber Banquet and Awards put you face-to-face with other members, community leaders, and potential customers.
Visibility builds trust, and trust builds business.
2. Introduce Yourself Online
We offer a member directory but don’t know changes unless you let us know – or edit your page yourself. The directory gets a LOT of hits – take advantage of it! Ensure your business profile is up to date, includes a compelling description, and links to your website and social media.
If we tag you on Facebook or Instagram in a post, engage with that post to boost visibility. Need us to share something or post about it? Let us know.
3. Use Member-Only Marketing Perks
We have some exclusive opportunities to advertise in our newsletters (and on our website), sponsor events, or be featured in business spotlights. These are often far more affordable than traditional advertising and directly reach a targeted local audience. Ask about low-cost or free ways to get featured.
4. Host or Sponsor Events
Sponsorships aren’t just about logos on banners—they’re about association and visibility. (And some don’t even incur a charge from the Chamber.) Whether you sponsor a lunch and learn, co-host a Morning Mingle or business after hours, or provide space for a meeting, you position your organization as a local leader and supporter of the community.
Not into event sponsorships? There may be other opportunities such as sponsoring giveaways, or in-kind donations. We’re even open to you suggesting your own way to get recognition.
5. Participate in Advocacy Efforts
The Chamber is your voice at city hall and beyond. Stay informed about local legislation, zoning issues, and economic development initiatives that affect your business. Additionally, voice your concerns and opinions so we know best how to advocate for you and your industry. We have a great working relationship with all of our representatives at the state and federal level and are more than happy to help.
6. Leverage Learning Opportunities
From business planning to digital marketing to AI, we’ve been hosting workshops, webinars, and panel discussions to keep you abreast of trends and best practices. Use them. Attend them.
These sessions can save you hours of research—and sometimes thousands of dollars. Plus, you know the products, services, and companies presented in these learning ops are vetted and (usually) chamber members.
7. Connect with Other Members
Chambers are a goldmine of potential partnerships. Need a CPA? Looking for a nonprofit to support? Want a trusted supplier? Look to your fellow members first – they’re all online in the business directory. When you do business with others in the chamber, you contribute to a stronger, more connected local economy. These new partners may also send business your way.
8. Tell Your Story
People want to do business with people they know, like, and trust. Share your milestones, success stories, or community impact with the chamber staff. We are happy to highlight member achievements in newsletters or on social media—it’s great exposure and helps build your reputation.
Get personal. If we ask you for a member writeup for your business. Give it some thought. What do you want people to know most about you? How can you make them more curious about you so they’ll sample your offerings? Don’t just copy and paste your website’s about page. You want to give people moments where they feel connected to you. Ask yourself what is it about you and your business that people will identify with or find interesting.
9. Get Your Team Involved
Your membership isn’t just for you—it’s for your whole team. Encourage staff to attend networking events, professional development events and leadership programs, or industry roundtables. It can boost morale, expand your reach, and help with talent retention.
10. Ask Questions and Offer Ideas
Finally, please know chambers are member-driven organizations. If you’re unsure how to plug in or have an idea for a new program or service, speak up. We’re eager to help and love hearing member feedback. Your input could lead to new initiatives that benefit the whole community.
Your Chamber is a Partner, Not Just a Provider
Chamber membership benefits your business even if you don’t partake in all its offerings, but you’ll get a lot more if you’re an active member. Whether you’re a solopreneur, a nonprofit director, or the CEO of a growing company, your chamber is there to support your success. Get involved, build relationships, and use the tools available. You’ll not only grow your business—you’ll strengthen your community in the process.
