Have you ever attended an Alameda Chamber & Economic Alliance event? If you’re not a member, you’re missing out. Before you say you don’t have the time to attend events, it’s important you know chamber life is not just mixers and ribbon cuttings. Chamber membership is one of the best-kept secrets for free or nearly free business resources like webinars, lunch & learns, and written collateral. Plus, a whole lot more. In fact, chamber membership is one of the best business investments you can make for the money and return.
Is Chamber Membership Worth It?
Not if you don’t know why you’re joining. In this article, you’ll learn all the benefits chamber membership can give you professionally and how it is a worthwhile investment in your business. But before you sign up, for maximum benefit, you should be very clear about what you want out of membership.
Why?
Because you want to communicate that to our staff when joining. When we know what you want, we can help get you on the right track. The Chamber offers many benefits. To get what you’re looking for, you need to ensure we know what that is.
Perhaps you’re not clear about what you want out of chamber membership. That’s okay. After reading this list you’ll have a better understanding of what’s important to you.
What Will I Get with Chamber Membership?
It’s always best to begin at the beginning. If you’re not sure what you need from the Chamber, look at this list of member benefits. Make a mental note of which of these things are the most important to you/your business:
1. Networking Opportunities: Let’s start with the obvious. We offer networking events, such as mixers, business expos, speed networking, and industry-focused lunches. At these events, businesspeople can connect with other professionals, potential clients, partners, and mentors. Building relationships is one of the best ways to help your business grow.
2. Visibility and Exposure: Membership comes with a listing in our online directory accessible from our website. This can increase your business’s visibility and credibility in the local community. The Chamber has additional opportunities for your business. You can be featured in our Destination Alameda Guide, which is printed every two years.
3. Credibility and Trust: Being a chamber member can enhance your business’s reputation as the chamber is generally seen as a credible organization that supports businesses. Membership shows your community you care about the area and have made an investment in it. Becoming a chamber member can also help people get to know your business (and show you’re connected) if you’re new in town.
4. Advocacy and Representation: We represent the interests of local businesses to government bodies and policymakers. The Chamber gives you a voice in local economic and regulatory matters. Being a member makes you part of something larger and thus amplifies your voice and business needs.
5. Business Education: We organize seminars, workshops, and training sessions. They focus on helping members stay updated on industry trends, business strategies, and best practices. Members can learn from top-notch thought leaders for free (in most cases) or a token expense to cover the meal. It’s one of the most affordable (and best-kept secrets) in business education.
6. Marketing Opportunities: We offer an array of advertising and sponsorship opportunities, allowing businesses to market themselves to the wider community. We have a large audience/good traffic, name recognition, and a strong reputation—all helpful when looking where to spend your marketing budget. Our newsletter alone has a 50% open rate!
7. Discounts and Exclusive Offers: Some of our members offer exclusive member-to-member discounts. We also have opportunities throughout the year to attend events in exclusive venues where members can enjoy discounts or specials. In the past, we hosted an evening with the Oakland Roots soccer team.
8. Community Involvement: Being part of a chamber provides you with business-directed volunteer opportunities. You can also contribute to community development and philanthropic activities, which can foster a positive public image for your business.
9. Referral Network: Chambers often refer their members to others who are looking for specific products or services, increasing your business’s chances of gaining new clients.
10. Partnerships and Collaborations: Connecting with other businesses through the Chamber can lead to partnership opportunities, joint ventures, and collaborations on projects.
11. Business Support: We can provide referral advice and assistance to businesses, especially startups and small enterprises.
12. Government Relations: We help businesses navigate government regulations, procedures, and other challenges. Through our Economic & Government Affairs Committee, we provide insights into legislative changes that might affect your operations or the business climate, in general.
13. Access to Influential Contacts: We attract a diverse group of professionals, including local leaders, executives, and entrepreneurs, which can open doors to valuable contacts.
14. Brand Building: Active involvement in Chamber events and initiatives can help build your brand within the local Alameda business community.
15. Professional Development: We host training sessions, workshops, and leadership development to enhance your professional skills. There are plenty of opportunities to help you step into a new skill or business. For instance, if you wanted to add the title of “professional speaker” to your resume and launch a speaking business, you may be able to start here. By speaking in front of members at a special event, you could build clientele and experience. We also host an annual leadership program for those interested in leadership and our community.
16. Local Support Network: Joining the Alameda Chamber can provide emotional support because you’re part of a community of business owners who face similar challenges. As well-meaning as friends and family are, if they’re not involved in business or your industry, they may not understand your challenges and triumphs the way your fellow chamber members will.
17. Membership Perks: While we do help all businesses in the community, we provide special perks to members like access to exclusive events and ribbon cuttings/celebrations.
Ultimately, the decision to join a chamber of commerce depends on your business’s specific needs and goals and how they match with our offerings. Knowing what your biggest challenge is in business can help you see just how impactful a chamber membership investment can be to your business.
