By Jennifer Wagner
Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development
Director of Member Engagement, Retention & Services
Your Chamber membership is more than just a listing in our directory; it’s a powerful tool for growth, connection, visibility, and sustainability within the local business community. Whether you’re a new member or a longtime supporter, there are countless ways to leverage your Chamber benefits to boost your business. In this article, we’ll walk through a few practical ways to maximize your membership and ensure you’re getting real value from being part of our Chamber community.
Identify what you hope to gain from your membership
Whether your goal is to connect with fellow business professionals and potential clients, grow through educational programs and workshops, increase your visibility as a community leader, or take advantage of valuable benefits like our group health insurance plan through Medical Mutual or workers’ compensation program with Sedgwick, we’re here to help you shape a Chamber experience that fits your unique business needs.
Include your entire staff in your membership
Your membership includes your entire staff, and the more they are involved, the more value your membership will bring. The Chamber offers a wide range of events and programs designed to benefit individuals in all roles within your organization. Feel free to reach out to ensure everyone on your team is receiving our emails and staying informed. Have a change in staff or management? Be sure to let us know so that we can update our records accordingly.
Attend Chamber Events
Stay updated with our event calendar and register for upcoming networking and signature events, luncheons, professional development roundtables, and workshops. These gatherings provide a great opportunity to connect with fellow business professionals and build valuable relationships!
Use the Chamber as a marketing tool
Whether you’re seeking to build your identity, generate leads, or spotlight your corporate initiatives, allow our Chamber to help carry your message to over 1,000 member companies that represent more than 2,800 employees in the Richland County area. From our newsletter ads to our weekly e-mail blasts and Community Guide advertising, we have many ways to help you promote your story and expand business awareness as a Chamber member.
Engage on Social Media
Join the conversation on our social media platforms to stay informed about Chamber updates, upcoming events, and industry news. Remember to follow us and tag @RichlandAreaChamber in your posts to stay connected with the community.
Use our online or printed membership directory and do business with other Chamber members. Our directory contains a list of all our Chamber members with contact information. These companies share your interest in making our community thrive, and we encourage you to take a look at their businesses when making purchasing decisions.
Make your membership pay for itself through discounts and much more!
The Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development offers many cost-saving benefits and services to help reduce your bottom line. You can save big on health insurance, workers’ comp, office supplies, advertising, member discounts at participating partners, and much more. It’s a win-win!
Utilize our Workforce Development resources
We serve as a “one-stop shop” for Workforce Development programs, resources, and guidance. Our RCDG staff stays on top of training grants, federal and state program initiatives, business partnerships, and identifies talent pipelines within our community. We will be announcing in the coming weeks an enhanced way to help you start or strengthen your internship and co-op programs! For more information, contact Clint Knight.
Strengthen Your Leadership Skills
Our Mansfield-Richland Area Educational Foundation programs are designed to cultivate strong business and community leaders. Through interactive tours, educational programs, technology training, and community awareness initiatives, participants gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping Richland County.
Business retention and expansion
As a Chamber member, you are supporting economic development in Richland County. Business retention, expansion, and attraction (business development) are top priorities, as well as community development. We connect businesses to support programs and provide access to local, regional, state, and federal resources!
Get involved
There are many ways to get involved with our Chamber that will help maximize the ROI of your membership.
- Attend events to network with other business leaders, as well as interact with our team and local officials!
- Volunteer on our Chamber Ambassador Committee. Participate in one of many RCDG Sectors such as Earth Stewardship, Mansfield Arts & Culture, Richland Young Professionals, and many more!
- Sponsor an event or reserve a booth at our annual Business Expo
Let people know you are a Chamber member
Studies show that consumers are 70% more likely to do business with a company that is a member of a Chamber of Commerce. Display your membership sticker/decal proudly!
If you would like to learn more about how to get the most out of your Chamber membership, contact Jennifer at 419-522-3211 or jwagner@richlandareachamber.com