Alexandria, Va.  (Nov. 30, 2012) – A national survey of 2,000 adults reveals that being active in a local chamber of commerce is an effective business strategy because two-thirds of consumers believe that such companies use good business practices, are reputable, care about their customers, and are involved in the community.

The study, conducted by The Schapiro Group, an Atlanta-based strategic consulting firm, found consumer perceptions of chamber members to be positive in many ways:

When consumers know that a small business is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 49% more likely to think favorably of it and 80% more likely to purchase goods or services from the company in the future. 

If a company shows that it is highly involved in its local chamber (e.g., is a chamber board member), consumers are 10% more likely to think that its products stack up better against its competition.

When consumers know that a national restaurant franchise is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 68% more likely to eat at the franchise in the next few months.

When consumers know that an insurance company is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 36% more likely to think favorably of the company.

A CITY PROSPERS BY COMMUNITY— WIDE COOPERATION

There is a place for every business and professional person in the Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber provides the necessary channel through which action can be taken to improve the area, build the community and develop constructive leadership.

Top 10 Reasons to Invest in your Chamber

10. YOUR INVESTMENT gives you another pair of eyes. Eyes of specialized observers who maintain a watch on legislation which affects every citizen of the community, and watching to be sure the quality of life in the area is maintained.

9. YOUR INVESTMENT gives you a number of one time discounts on everything from advertising to catering events.

8. YOUR INVESTMENT gives you a front office. All Chamber members can display their business cards and/or brochures at the Chamber office. The Chamber is a place where visitors gain their first impressions of the soundness and the hospitality of the community. It is also the first place many new residences come to, to ask for referrals.

7. YOUR INVESTMENT helps the Chamber carry out its yearly Program of Work.

6. YOUR INVESTMENT means you have the opportunity to meet the business and community leaders through networking events such as Business After Hours, Wake Up to Southfield, Entrepreneur Innovation Series, and our Annual State of the City.

5. YOUR INVESTMENT gives YOU the opportunity to let your feelings be known and get involved. The Chamber is active in many areas and your interests will probably fall in one of these areas.

4. YOUR INVESTMENT is a way to give back to the community in which you live and earn a living, because everyone owes a debt of personal service to the community that cannot be paid-off in taxes.

3. YOUR INVESTMENT allows you to apply for discounted insurance from Blue Cross Blue Shield, which helps you reduce your overhead.

2. YOUR INVESTMENT enables the Chamber to be a central overall voluntary organization and play a vital and essential role in the community’s progress.

And the #1 reason to Invest in your Chamber: 1.YOUR INVESTMENT allows you and the other members on the Chamber of Commerce Team to make our community the kind of place you want live and do business in.

RETURN ON YOUR INVESTMENT

NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

Invitations to participate in business networking programs such as Annual Meeting, Business After Hours, Wake Up to Southfield, Oakland County Legislative Luncheon, Chamber 411, Table For Eight,  and our Entrepreneur Innovation Series

Opportunity to volunteer in one or more of our committee areas that are making Southfield a better place for you to do business, and provide even more networking and name recognition opportunities for your business.

Golf Outing (a golf tournament) provides members with casual setting for networking and friendly competition as well as our Taste of Southfield and State of the City.

CHAMBER PRODUCTS

- Access to free membership listings. Membership mailing labels are available for a nominal charge.

- Receive a decal showing that you are a member of the Chamber of Commerce and are helping to make Southfield a better community.

- Receive copies of our Southfield Area Chamber Quality of Life Magazine for your customers or new employees.

- Discounted insurance through Phil Klein Insurance

- Rewards card – buy locally and save money

We are always seeking new Chamber products/services for our members to receive a valuable return on their investment. We welcome your suggestions on how to serve you best.