Businesses join the chamber of commerce for several reasons. Years ago, it may have been expected; just something you did when you opened a business and wanted to be in good standing in the community.
But these days it’s more likely a business joins because there is a direct advantage to them. Maybe they wanted a ribbon cutting or need the advocacy or wanted a marketing opportunity that membership allowed them.
Yes, there are many reasons to join the chamber as a business and tons of benefits your business can receive from membership. But aside from simply writing a check and receiving a set of benefits, there are reasons why you should become personally involved with the Alameda Chamber of Commerce.
When we say “you” we mean you as an individual. There are many ways you can gain personally outside of what the Chamber can do for your business.
Plus, the Chamber extends its benefits to all of your employees so you can use Chamber membership benefits as employee benefits. Share this with them as well.
4 Reasons to Get Involved with the Alameda Chamber
Let’s place the advocacy, marketing, advertising, and public relations benefits of chamber membership on the back burner. This article is about what the chamber can do for you and your employees specifically, not the business.
Yes, the chamber can bring more attention to your business, which can create more sales opportunities, but these benefits below and this personal involvement are things that can help you personally and professionally outside of what Chamber membership is doing for your business.
Education Opportunities
The Chamber has a number of education opportunities where you and your employees can learn about important matters for free. Right now, they’re in the form of webinars and referred to as Chamber Academy sessions.
We have covered the important topics of our day including diversity, how to excel in social media, and information on economic interests. The Chamber Academy can help you become a more well-rounded professional, change careers, or get up-to-date on important trends in the business community. Check out our Chamber calendar here and register for those that interest you.
Leadership Experience
The Chamber offers a lot of opportunities to volunteer for different committees or events. You may find a volunteer position in a subject that interests you like our new women leaders group; or our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee; or our Emerging Leaders Group.
Not only can these volunteer positions be added to your resume, but volunteering could also help you meet people with similar interests and help you grow your professional network. Speaking of…
Networking
Getting involved with the Chamber can help you meet more people and grow your professional network and make friendships. We’re currently hosting Blitzr networking meetings which help our attendees meet with others on a virtual one-on-one basis to create more meaningful relationships.
Business Expansion and Hidden Opportunities
As you grow your network, you may learn of additional business possibilities that you could add to your business or you could use to launch a new one. You may learn of seed money, grants, SBA funding, or private opportunities.
Often business deals get made before anything is formally published or requested. Being personally involved in the chamber may help you be a part of those types of discussions and make you aware of opportunities before they become public.
The same may be true of the hidden job market. A contact may tell you they’re looking for someone before posting it on a job site, giving you the advantage. You could also find your next position or candidate through our free job board.
Chamber benefits for your business are amazing. They can really help you increase your number of customers and get your name out there. But those aren’t the only benefits. If you get involved individually, there are many benefits to your professional growth and career. Plus, you can extend those benefits to all of your employees too. That can be a real selling point for someone looking for a great company culture.
