The Time-Crunched Business Owner's Guide to Maximizing Your Chamber Membership ROI

​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 membership.

Beyond the HandshakeNetworking events are great. We have some of the best. But they're not the only way to make the most of your 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.
• Virtual Happy Hours & Webinars. Some chambers offer online networking opportunities. It's a low-key way to make connections in your PJs (just throw a suit jacket over top please). Additionally, these webinar learning opportunities may be recorded, so while you’re missing out on the live networking component, you can still enjoy the professional growth on your schedule (like instead of binge watching your fave show again).
• Social Media Savvy. Engage with the Chamber's social media posts. Comment, share, and tag other members. The Chamber has 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. Participate in its Hot Deals program. You can also create a specific deal 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 the Chamber's 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. Explore discounts and special offers from fellow members. You might find a new supplier, service provider, or even a great deal on your next vacation.
• Buy the Chamber Bucks. When you do have time to explore your community, paying in Chamber Bucks or with your chamber’s local currency, makes a solid statement that you are here to support your neighbors.

 
Turn Your Expertise into SalesEstablish yourself as a subject matter expert with the help of the chamber.

• Write a Guest Blog. Share your industry knowledge with the chamber's audience. Ask about newsletter submissions. What’s available to members? How can you be a part of it? Most chamber newsletters have a large reach.
• 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 CanYou may not be able to make daytime events, but you can still make appearances that fit in 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.

 
Tell the chamber staff about your time constraints. They'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 the staff the kind of connections you’re most interested in and see how they may be able to assist outside of events.
 
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 Chamber is your partner in success, and you don’t have to go to every event to gain exposure and sales.