Hey there, busy members!
We see you. You’re juggling inventory, payroll, marketing… the list never ends. And we keep sending emails about events you don’t have time to attend, right? While these events can be incredible opportunities to learn and grow professionally, we understand that “getting together” isn’t in everybody’s calendar.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t get solid return on investment when it comes to your chamber membership. Even if you’re busier than an internet troll during election time, there are plenty of ways to squeeze every drop of value out of your chamber member benefits.
Beyond the Handshake
Networking events are great. We have some of the best. But they’re not the only way to make the most of your Alameda chamber membership. Let’s dive into some strategies for the time-crunched.
Become a “Digital Mingler”
If you don’t have time for in-person networking, try making your digital presence known through:
- Online Directory Domination. Make sure your Chamber directory listing is polished to perfection. Add high-quality photos, a compelling description, and links to your website and social media. You can update this as often as you’d like. There may also be opportunities to upgrade your listing.
- Social Media Savvy. Engage with our social media posts. Comment, share, and tag other members. We have a broad and vast reach. Becoming a social media “frequent flyer” will help people get to know you and check out your platform.
- Share Your Savings. If you’re running a discount, share it with chamber members through our weekly newsletter (we also publish one on Fridays with events so if you’re hosting one, let us know that). You can also create a specific deal code just for members; that way you’ll know how many new customers are coming from the chamber.
Share the Membership Love
- Referrals & Reviews. Spread the word about other members you’ve worked with. Write glowing reviews on Google, Yelp, or a social media platform. Speaking well of others means good things are heading your way. If nothing else, you will catch their attention and they’ll check you out. Additionally, it’s another way to get your name out there without talking about yourself. You know how hard it is to be a business owner. Reviews mean everything.
- Member Perks. Keep an eye out for discounts and special offers from fellow members in our newsletter. You might find a new supplier, service provider, or even a great deal on your next vacation.
- Buy a Visit & Shop Alameda Card. When you have time to explore your community, paying with our Visit & Shop Alameda card, makes a solid statement that you are here to support your neighbors.
Turn Your Expertise into Sales
Establish yourself as a subject matter expert with the help of the chamber.
- Write a Guest Blog. Share your industry knowledge with our audience. Ask about newsletter submissions. Our newsletters have an incredible open rate and are viewed by hundreds of people each week.
- Lead a Virtual Workshop or Webinar. Offer a short, online training session on your area of expertise. It’s a win-win – you provide value and gain visibility.
Meet When You Can
You may not be able to make daytime events, but you can still make appearances that fit into your schedule.
- Attend a Ribbon Cutting. Even a brief stop at a fellow member’s ribbon cutting can make a big impression.
- Volunteer (But Be Strategic). Choose a chamber committee or project that aligns with your interests and skills. It’s a great way to network with purpose.
Check out our events calendar. There’s always something going on. We have morning and evening events.
Not sure how to get more involved? Tell us about your time constraints. We’ll help you identify opportunities that fit your schedule and goals. Also, you don’t have to wait for a networking event to meet people. Tell us the kind of connections you’re most interested in and we’ll do our best to assist you.
Remember, a Chamber membership is an investment, and it’s up to you to make it pay off. Even small actions can yield big results. The Alameda Chamber & Economic Alliance is your partner in success, and you don’t have to go to every event to gain exposure and sales.
