Top 10 Reasons to Join Your Local Chamber of Commerce

Article written by Eric Bank

As a small-business owner, your days are already too full, so joining your local chamber of commerce (CoC) may not foremost in your thoughts. Well, think again -- you really can't afford not to join the CoC. The benefits these valuable organizations provide are well worth the time you invest, and your company should profit through greater networking and timely information concerning your community and your business.

Here are the top 10 reasons for joining your local CoC:

1.      Credibility

The public at large regards the CoC highly, and being associated with one helps polish members' reputations. Membership will also boost your relationships with other CoC members.

2.      Visibility

You can increase you business' visibility by advertising in the CoC social media sites and newsletters, as well as in other CoC publications. You can also advertise at CoC fundraisers and events, which will help create goodwill within your community and provide a big lift to your public relations efforts.

3.      Networking

You can realize a good opportunity by enlisting in one or two CoC committees. You'll form important contacts with other local businesspeople and you may get to meet local political and civic leaders. Join a committee that will aid your business and also help the surrounding community.

4.      Democracy

Speaking of political leaders, joining the CoC helps you promote your business interests with regard to the vexing social and political issues in the news. Instead of just complaining about unfair taxes, red tape and useless regulation, you can fight for change by helping the CoC educate ill-advised representatives with the facts. CoC works to ensure equal treatment for all businesses, big or small.

5.      B2B

Membership in the CoC helps promote business-to-business relationships. Other business owners may soon seem like your extended family, and you'll probably boost your commerce with other CoC members. Joining CoC is a great way to enhance local networking opportunities.

6.      Information

A local CoC is a primary resource for all manner of local and national information vital to the success of your company. CoC distributes newsletters reporting community developments and information that can help you grow your business. The CoC community calendar lets you schedule your time so that you can go to significant events -- don't shortchange the promotional value of these occasions.

7.      Recommendations

One extra advantage of joining a CoC is all the recommendations you will get from other CoC members for vendors and consumers who need new business relationships.

8.      Special Events

Yearlong, you'll discover that the CoC sponsors many special programs that can educate you and provide additional networking possibilities. It's a great way to develop new leads for your companies.

9.      Advertising

Advertising in a CoC publication adds zip to your promotional and marketing efforts. Other CoC members acknowledge money you spend on ads in CoC media, because it helps the organization grow.

10.   Discounts

CoC members receive a variety of special discounts and services provided by other CoC members. You might save money on, for example, phone equipment or office supplies.

For small businesses, the CoC serves as powerful ally as you grow your company. Membership is a savvy way to improve your business prospects.