Insider Tips for getting the most out of your Chamber membership

At a recent event, we asked Chamber members to give us their "Insider Tips" for getting the most value out of their Chamber membership.  Here's what they said.

"Attend as many events and activities as possible.  People need to get to know you, like you and trust you before doing business with you or better yet--sending you referrals."

Donna Bullard, Clarkston Brandon Community Credit Union.

"We're all here hoping to share and learn from one another.  It's amazing how quickly you make new friends with a common goal."

Denise Poniatowski, Divine Nutrition

"The more you get involved with the Chamber, the more benefits you will receive."

Ron DeLorme, Manage Max Performance Improvement

"Be patient.  Attend, watch and learn from others."

Nathan Sealy, Brass Ring Wealth Management

"Watch for visits from Teri Robinson, Membership consultant at the Chamber.  Her smiling face and current info on what's happening in the Chamber are great!"

Kimberly Dunahay, Divine Nutrition

"It's not just business you find at Chamber events.  We found Katie Marietta (Fitness and Aquatics Director) at the Taste of Clarkston!"

Tammie White, Deer Lake Athletic Club

"Use the membership list to make contact and introduce yourself.  Find out who handles decisions on your product/services and get connected with them."

Patty Gelsomino, Toshiba Business Services

and from the Chamber staff we have these additional tips:

Attend a Member Orientation meeting (held every 4-6 weeks).  You'll learn what programs, services and values you can access immediately to jump start your involvement in the Chamber.

Don't try to do it all.  Be strategic and selective about when and where you can participate in Chamber events, programs and projects.

Use your membership.  Like a gym membership, if you don't use it--you don't see the results.  

Involvement can mean reading your Advertising Advantage, checking out the website, following the Chamber on Twitter or Facebook, connecting on Linked in.  It's not just attending BOBs, Mixers and Women in Business events.

Write your business goals down.  Then think about why you joined the Chamber, what the Chamber can offer and what you can participate in.  Write down your goals for your Chamber membership and three things you will do in the next 30 days to help achieve those goals.  Make an appointment with yourself to review these goals and actions in 30 days--find out what works for you and do more of it.

Visit the website--you'll find lots of information on what's happening, business resources, information about other members.

Send information, press releases, photos, announcements to Penny@clarkston.org.  She will help promote you through the website, eBlasts and social media outlets.