Benefits Services

Good News for Chamber Members

A national study by the Schapiro Group, an Atlanta based market research firm, reveals a number of important findings about how consumers and business owners perceive the local chamber of commerce and the businesses that are their members. For example,

• When consumers know that a business is a member of the local chamber, they are 44% more likely to think favorably about it

• Consumers who are told that a business is a chamber member are 51% more likely to be highly aware of it and 57% more likely to think positively of its local reputation

The study also has good news for businesses that sell to other businesses:

• When business decision makers believe that a business is a chamber member, they are 37% more likely to think favorably of the business, 51% more likely to be highly aware of it, and 58% more likely to buy goods and services from it.

Supporting the previous findings, the study also reveals a positive perception for the local chamber itself:

• Regarding the chamber’s impact on the local economy, 82% of respondents believe that the local chamber of commerce helps create jobs and promotes local economic development.

The results of the Schapiro study are clear: Positive perception increases among consumers and business owners when a business is identified as a member of the local chamber of commerce.

By becoming a member of the Greater Orange Area Chamber of Commerce (GOACC), you multiply your effectiveness in the community.

The Chamber is the community's front door. We send out informational packets promoting our community. When individuals are considering relocating here, we are usually their first contact.

Your business gains valuable exposure. What better way to promote your business than to meet other business and professional people? Many networking opportunities are available to GOACC members, such as Business Connection Coffee, the mixer at Sundown, annual banquets, ribbon cuttings and other events.

You will also receive a free listing in the Chamber Membership Directory, a door decal and a business membership plaque identifying you as a recommended business. Your membership is an assurance to your customers that you are a reputable business working to make the Greater Orange Area a better place in which to work and live.

One of the best ways to promote your business is through your involvement. Become involved as a Chamber Ambassador, or join one of the many committees and make valuable business contacts and some friends in the process.

Through the Chamber's newsletter we strive to keep you informed on the Chamber's activities and other community information. Members can have news about their business published free in the monthly newsletter. You can also include an ad or insert in the newsletter at a very affordable price.