Joining the Chamber of Commerce can be a valuable resource for networking, business growth, and community involvement. Membership is like going to the gym, you get out of it what you put into it and everyone’s end goal is different. Our job is to help create opportunities and facilitate connections in order to reach your individual goal. Your job is to actively engage and contribute and get the most out of your membership!
Consider the following ways to make the most of your membership:
Engage Actively: Simply joining isn’t enough. Attend events, workshops, and meetings regularly. Actively participate in discussions, share your insights, and contribute to the community.
Check our socials and online calendar regularly for upcoming events and Chamber supported events. We’ve just started putting out two newsletters each month, Chamber News at the beginning of the month and our new mid-month Learn, Connect, Grow featuring grant and training opportunities and community events. Let us know if you’d like us to include your event!
Did you know that you can update our online calendar with your events by logging into GrowthZone? Advertise your upcoming events to other members and on our public site. Login to create your event page and submit to us for review/approval. Also, check out and register for upcoming events on our calendar. If you need help logging in just let us know.
Build Relationships: Facilitating networks and building relationships among chamber members that lead to new business opportunities and increased sales and growth is a major benefit of membership. Get to know fellow members, potential clients, and partners. The Chamber regularly organizes Coffee Meet-Ups, Business at Breakfast, After 5 Mixers and other special events. All you have to do is show up!
Utilize Resources: The Chamber offers a range of resources such as business directories, marketing and grant opportunities, and access to local business data. Make sure you leverage these resources to boost your business.
If you haven’t checked out Carleton Place Chamber – Members Only Forum on Facebook lately now is the time! This is a great page to connect, post info or ask questions.
Attend Workshops and Seminars: The Chamber is strongly connected to trusted organizations which offer professional development workshops, seminars, and training sessions. These events can offer valuable insights into various aspects of business, from marketing to legal issues.
Promote Your Business: The Chamber offers opportunities to showcase your business. Consider presenting at our monthly Business at Breakfast or check out sponsorship opportunities to gain profile for your brand. Attend events with your business card handy.
Join Committees: The Chamber has committees focused on specific areas such as Strategic Planning and Member Value. Joining a committee not only allows you to give back but also provides more exposure for your business.
Collaborate with Other Members: Partner with other members on joint ventures, promotions, or events. Collaborative efforts can widen your reach and introduce you to new markets.
Advocacy and Influence: Chambers often have a voice in government and policy decisions speaking as an authority on business issues to advocate for change at all levels of government in a positive and constructive manner. Participate in advocacy efforts to influence decisions that affect your business and the community.
Enjoy Membership Perks: Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, home-based business or part of a large company, benefits are a very important part of your financial well-being. We offer Canada’s #1 plan for employee benefits, Chamber of Commerce Group Insurance Plan. Sign up for FanSaves and enjoy deals and create your own!
Volunteer: Volunteering for Chamber events and initiatives not only gives back to the community but also helps you form deeper connections with fellow members.
Seek Guidance: Chambers can provide assistance with business challenges. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice or recommendations from fellow members or the Chamber staff.
Monitor ROI: Regularly assess the value you’re receiving from your membership. If you’re not seeing the desired results, consider adjusting your approach or discussing your concerns with the Chamber.
Stay Positive: Approach your Chamber membership with a positive and open mindset. The more you invest in the community, the more you’re likely to gain in return.
Remember that the Chamber of Commerce is a two-way street. The more you actively engage and contribute, the more you’ll benefit from your membership.