By Don Brennan
For inFOCUS
There are many reasons why small businesspersons, entrepreneurs, and mid-sized and large
companies opt to join chambers of commerce. However, the single most common reason is also the most logical: to increase sales.
At the Greater Northeast Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce (GNPCC), which mirrors most chambers and, in fact, most businesses, our membership is largely made up of individual, small and mid-sized businesses with budgets annually in search of the most affordable ways to expand their markets. The question for them is, what is the most effective way of doing that?
Membership in the GNPCC accomplishes several things almost immediately: It gets your name out there, creates networking opportunities, establishes a sense of authority, and is very affordable.
Still, you have questions. We know, because we have heard them.
Is it worth it to join a brick-and-mortar group founded in 1922 in an age where everything is online? Are you looking to build local B2B relationships or grow a local business?
True, the GNPCC was founded early in the 20th century when manufacturing mixed with retailing in the Frankford section of Philadelphia, and what would later become known as the Great Northeast was largely still farmland. Today’s GNPCC is alive and well online. Visit our website (www.nephilachamber.com) or read our weekly online newsletter (inFOCUS) as proof.
The GNPCC is a good place for you and your business because it’s actually quite simple: we are dedicated to protecting and promoting the local business community. Our focus is to help business owners network and grow.
We host networking events, fundraisers, workshops, and other activities, all with the aim of connecting local business owners. Our motto is “Smart Business Connections” precisely for that reason.
The GNPCC has enjoyed a good reputation, and many consumers have positive perceptions of our members and their businesses.
According to a recent study, nearly half of consumers polled were more likely to think favorably of a local business if it was a member of the local Chamber— and 80 percent were more likely to purchase a product or service from a Chamber member.
Overall, most business owners feel a Chamber of Commerce membership is a must-have. There aren’t many cons; it’s an affordable investment that will bring immediate connections and promote your business.
There is a catch.
Chambers of Commerce aren’t magical business solutions where you’ll see immediate ROI. No matter what, you will have to work hard to get what you want out of it. And, you might run into your competitors. You’ll have to put on your game face when you do.
Your membership in the GNPCC is not on autopilot. You cannot set it, and forget it.
That’s why we stress active involvement, and we offer many ways to get your feet wet and your hands dirty, so to speak.
If you have already made the investment in the GNPCC, thank you for your confidence in us and we will work hard to maintain your trust. If you are considering joining us, we welcome you to kick the tires by visiting our website. We are certain you will find many things to spark your interest.
Always remember this: we put you face-to-face with decision-makers, the best audience you could ask for to promote your products and services.