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Any copywriters here chamber-of-commerce members?

by NickN
6 replies
Just wanted some feedback from you if you've ever had any experience with a chamber of commerce.

I've heard CC's can be great for leads and forming partnerships. But others say they're a waste of time and money.

So which side are you on?

I'd love to hear your thoughts...

Much obliged.

-Nick N.
#chamberofcommerce #copywriters #members
  • Profile picture of the author Steve Hill
    I have been a CC member in the past. If your business is primarily local and you like to attend the social networking events, CC's can be a worthwhile source of business and contacts.

    It really depends on your specific marketing objectives as well as the individual CC's, but generally speaking, a CC membership can be a good way to get to know the local companies and merchants, and to gain local credibility.

    It might be worthwhile to attend a local meeting or function and see how well it might work for you. Some CC's are very dynamic and active, whereas others can be a bit of an insider's clique.
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  • Profile picture of the author textbroker
    Hi Nick,
    Steve pretty much nailed it - if you have the time to go to events and network, you can be successful with a Chamber of Commerce membership. Just signing up and not participating brings minimal benefits. I was a Chamber employee, and the folks I saw interacting at events are the ones who got business.
    If you're not sure about the chamber, you may want to consider other networking or professional groups in your area. In Vegas, we have five Chambers of Commerce, a two young professionals organizations, an internet marketing association, the American Marketing Association, and a bunch of lead-sharing business groups.
    When you attend events, Chamber or not, be sure to talk to people. Network the right way - not pushing your card into everyone's hand, but getting to know what their business is and how you can help them.
    Good luck!
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  • Profile picture of the author TJMcDowell
    I've been to a lot of networking groups, and you definitely want to carefully consider whether you want to invest in a membership before you make the jump.
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  • Profile picture of the author staceythewriter
    I was a member of my local chamber of commerce and did get business as a result. However, the sub-group that I was a part of met every week or every other week for the purpose of helping each other build our businesses. I suggest, if you join that you look for this type of arrangement. I still get business from them, and I haven't been a member in a few years.
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    Stacey Mathis
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    The Copywriter's Highway to Success
    http://www.staceythewriter.com
    Twitter: @staceythewriter

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  • Profile picture of the author NickN
    Appreciate everyone's feedback.

    Seems you need to become a member of a CC with active participants for it to really pay off.

    Again, thanks y'all. I'm going to look into it.
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  • Profile picture of the author debml
    Chambers are good, but I'd also check out Meetup groups in your area. Often, Meetups are more targeted than chambers.

    If you join the chamber, look into becoming an ambassador. Chambers are always looking for volunteers to help out at their events, and as ambassador one primary responsibility is making new members and guests feel comfortable at events. Also, you'll be invited to all ribbon-cutting ceremonies.

    The membership committee is golden. If you're looking for clients, offer to review prospective members marketing... and if they don't join but look like they could be a prospect for you... review their marketing anyway
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