Why Join your Local Chamber of Commerce

by Sheri Heiney, President & CEO of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce

Recently the Prescott Chamber of Commerce was voted by the Phoenix Business Journal as one of the Top Ten Chambers in the state of Arizona with more than 900 members!

Chambers are supported by membership dues, which are usually based on the size of your business. Your dues are tax deductible as a business expense.

Most businesses benefit from membership, and small businesses often benefit dramatically from the power of joining together with their peers. Here are some of the things that local chambers do for the business community.

NETWORKING

Chambers sponsor social events and networking groups designed for members to meet and do business together. If your business depends on local-business generation, this is an opportunity that you shouldn’t pass up. Even if your customer base is not local, the connections you make can be an invaluable source of local goods and services for your business needs.

Also, check out your Chamber’s Ambassador Committee if you’d like to have a built-in opportunity to welcome and meet new members.

ADVERTISING

As a member, you’re listed in the Chamber directory; your opportunities for promoting your business don’t stop there. Chambers have websites, newsletters, newspapers, brochures and more. They sell advertising in most of these, and the costs are generally modest. If your target market includes other chamber members, the ROI can be fantastic.

EDUCATION

Training yourself and your staff can be expensive. Chambers offer classes, workshops and seminars, taught by member professionals, at a low cost to members.

REFERRALS

Businesses and residents new to a community frequently call the local chamber for referrals for needed goods and services. If you’re not a member, chamber staff can’t refer you. Take the time to get to know the staff of your local chamber, and make sure that they have the information they need to send business your way.

VOLUNTEERING

Volunteering on a chamber committee that fits your interests or expertise creates leadership opportunities, helps you become better known in the community, and can help position you as an expert in your field.