Not in a Chamber but been to dozens of them. You can attend most chambers as a guest up to 2-3 times. I would take advantage of this. I've had good connections come out of it. Chamber members usually like to business with each other so that understandable but as a guest to their events most people will have no idea if you are a member or not.
You can also check out BNI or Le Tip, they are more focused on networking and referral passing. Generally much much smaller with 25~ members that meet weekly. Meetings are mandatory. Like the chamber there are dozens of these in the area. You can go to two events as a guest as well.
From my personal experience I like the chamber more as it gives you much more exposure and but you also need to make an effort to attend events to make a name for yourself. Although most chambers are 300+ members, only a small fraction turn out to events but you have to remember chambers have massive reach. Some chambers even have their own BNI type group within the chamber.
I'll be joining a chamber soon actually. My advice to you is to reep the benefits by going to the events for free and get a feel for it your self. Not all chambers are alike. ymmv
Absolutely, the town I'm in is so small so when attending the events, it's not free, but only a small fee. We are netting enough as a company to put the small $265 investment into the chamber, I think either way it would be a good investment.
They offer referrals, connections, credibility etc.
It will be our next step.
I agree with Intence - attend as many free events as possible before you make your decision. Whether it's a smart move or not really depends on the details and you won't know till you take a test drive.
- COCs have a lot of small biz members that are also looking for increased exposure and the opportunity to network. $235 a year seems like a reasonable investment unless all the members are tire-kickers and it doesn't result in more work for you and your partner.
- Also consider the investment of your precious time into the total cost. Unless you love to schmooze, this shouldn't be ignored.
- The trust-factor of being a member is negligible IMO. No matter what you're selling, your experience and the results you can confidently deliver mean a whole lot more than what organizations you belong to.
- Before you buy based on the resources they provide, be sure to search for a local SBD (small business development) office. They usually have similar benefits and are often free to use.
See if you can go to a few mixers and breakfasts for free. If you get some good leads or even some business from it, take the risk and join up.
I ultimately opted not to join (for now) because the cost in my area was considerably higher. Hope this all helps.
I agree with the trust factor portion of your post to an extent. I do believe they can up your credibility greatly which will go hand in hand with an awesome service/product I'm providing. Would help us appear as not just another salesmen walking through their doors.
The cost is too cheap to let pass by IMO. I think we are going to just go for it and milk it dry.
Networking groups usually end up as a free-for-all where everyone is trying to sell something to each other. They feel like Amway meetings.
Ask yourself, If you're selling services (SEO, Website, etc) do you want to sell to your target customer's salesmen, or their decision makers?
Well I've been to a few mixers locally, it's such a small community, tons of business owners (decision makers) attend to network with the other local business owners.
I have been to mixers in atlanta and new york that were similar to being in a pin full of hungry lions, but here it's much more relaxed, full of great people looking to network.
We actually took another visit to the chamber of commerce today to get more details, and what they offer on top of being a member is substantial. I honestly think our ROI with the chamber will be positive.
