By Pam Fisher
Just last year, a national survey of 2,000
adults revealed that being active in a local
chamber of commerce is an effective
business strategy. 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, with major impact on small businesses.
The study indicated that chamber
membership has consistent and powerful
benefits for small business members–if
consumers are aware that the small business
is involved with its local chamber.
I can attest to the benefits of chamber membership. Throughout my career, the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce was undoubtedly my go-to source for business development opportunities and camaraderie with like-minded professionals.
Through seminars and events, training programs such as Leadership Adirondack, and committee participation, the ARCC provided me with opportunity to cultivate longstanding connections, collaborate with various industries, and gain familiarity of our diversified business community throughout Warren, Washington, and northern Saratoga counties.
Imagine my delight when they hired me. Now, as the Chamber’s membership manager, each day is an opportunity to share the great benefits of ARCC membership with nearly 1100 businesses. It’s much more than a job duty to me. It’s an obligation to serve the region where I work, live, and raise my family.
As I meet with business owners throughout the region, we discuss how they can best promote themselves, how to find a stable work force, how to access business consulting and how to effectively develop meaningful connections. Many have questions about health insurance, seek energy savings, or need the Chamber’s support in advocacy efforts. I am proud to work for an organization that can offer solutions in all of these areas, and more.
As our Chamber approaches its 100th year helping businesses, we look forward to developing an even greater voice to serve and protect the Adirondack region.
The ARCC will hold a membership drive from Oct. 28 to Nov. 8. The drive is made possible through the tremendous support of Chamber volunteers, our board of directors, and our drive captains: Jason Bowman of Jaeger & Flynn, Leslie D’Angelico of Glens Falls National Bank, Mark Sidoti of PrimeLink, and Alissa Vesterby of ServPro of Southern Saratoga County.
During the drive, new members will enjoy two free months, followed by a full year of membership during ARCC’s centennial celebration. Other exclusive benefits include a free ad in the Glens Falls Business Journal, as well as a free site on GlensFallsRegion. com.
Thanks to the support of Mannix Marketing, the site will also have a “New ARCC Member Page,” featuring company names, contact information, and links to websites of new Chamber members.
The ARCC also fosters an environment of professionals who are motivated to make a difference. This year’s membership drive is no exception.
Courtesy of O’Brien Insurance, for each new member that joins during the drive, the O’Briens will donate $10 to the Tri-County United Way. There has never been a better time to join such a dynamic organization of business leaders and directly benefit a dynamic service organization in the process.
Representing an excess of 28,000 people, the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce is proud to assist members with business solutions, networking and referrals, promotion, education, and advocacy. A new website, www.adirondackchamber.org, launched this month, enabling businesses to now sign up for events, seminars, and membership online.
The time to join to the ARCC is now. With a growing, dynamic membership, the ARCC will continue to be the premiere organization in helping local companies to succeed, grow and thrive.
Pam Fisher is membership manager with the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce.