Any magic wands, silver bullets or other cliche objects out there to guarantee your membership success? Too bad things don't work that way. Truth is, you play an integral role in a successful journey.

You see, we work on your behalf. If you are successful, we are successful. Companies become members of the South Bend Regional Chamber because they want (1) more business and visibility, or (2) to build a stronger business community.

Let's connect the dots to see how all of this works. First, do you patronize fellow Chamber member businesses? Or, if you have a need, do you simply google and select any online company that appears in your search list? Consider working with businesses, like yours, that made the decision to invest in the local business economy by being members of the Chamber. Remember, we have an online business directory of all of our members. Before you automatically google and select a random company, visit our online directory first, or contact our Membership Director Mark McGill who can provide you with referrals and connect you appropriately.

Beyond that, if you are looking to increase business, try to attend some Chamber programming where you'll have an opportunity to connect with other businesses. Some programming is perfectly suited to network with others, so you can learn more about them and they can learn more about you. Remember, it's a long game, and you need to have the patience and resiliency to build up relationships. That takes time but it's so worth it. Simply put, you do business with people you know and vice-versa.

You may not have the time to attend some programming. That's fine. What about other employees at your company? Your Chamber membership is not simply for the person who signs the checks. Rather, membership is for any employee of a member business. Make sure as you have personnel changes at your company, you update us with those changes to keep your staff current with what's happening at the Chamber.

What's making news at your company? Who are the people making the news? We're always looking for fresh content to share with our audiences.

As you can see, membership is really one big network of businesses and people. What makes it successful is the ability for those businesses and people working together to support one another, solve problems, and lift one another. Our role is to expedite connections, convene meetings for problem-solving, information and education; and to amplify opportunities, resources and stories.

Additional Tips

• Check your business description on the Chamber's business directory. If you are displaying along with others in the same category, does your description differentiate you?
• Include your logo and social media platforms on yor directory listing.
• Post your job openings on our free Jobs Board
• Post your events on the Member Events Calendar.
• Include a digital membership plaque on your website.
• Consider being a Chamber ambassador to gain further exposure for your company.
• Attend Chamber programming for information, education and connections.
• Participate in Chamber programming, as appropriate, such as MFG Days, BLDG Trades Week, etc.
• Partner with the Chamber to sponsor events or advertise in communications to gain additional visibility.
• Take advantage of Chamber initiatives, like the PHP health insurance program, Constant Contact emarketing, Office Depot, prescription savings and more.
• Offer a chamber REWARD - a discount/offer available on the Chamber website.