Chambers of commerce are an often-overlooked way for businesses to market their services. Their influence can be so powerful that a tiny startup can be launched into the national conversation primarily because the startup was active in chambers of commerce.
This is exactly what happened with Constant Contact, the small business marketing solution that now sits in the top half of Deloitte’s Technology Fast 500. Constant Contact’s CEO attributes much of the company’s success to participation in chamber of commerce activities.
So, what is a chamber of commerce, and how can mobile app resellers get in on the action? Let’s break it down.
Chambers of Commerce
A chamber of commerce is, in its simplest form, a network of businesses and a generalized trade organization. There are chambers of commerce in almost every city, state, and nation, and they number in the thousands worldwide. Total membership includes millions of businesses.
The purpose of a chamber of commerce is to promote the interests of its member businesses, which usually involves interaction with government entities and other related organizations. Chambers of commerce also hold events and pursue other initiatives to promote the member businesses themselves and help them grow.
How Not to Fail at Networking Events
One of the most important types of event held by chambers of commerce is a networking event, where representatives of member businesses can meet, exchange information, and hopefully enter into mutually beneficial relationships. For a mobile app reseller, these events are a great way to spread the word about the services you can provide to local businesses. That said, many people aren’t quite sure how to make them worthwhile. Here’s our advice.
First, don’t be a wallflower. When you go to a networking event, if the first thing you do is hug the wall and look for someone you know, you’re missing out on golden opportunities. While your contacts might introduce you to someone new, it’s best to simply walk over to the first people you see. Do it the first minute you’re there, as soon as possible, before anxiety gets a hold of you. Your introduction doesn’t have to be very formal. If you see a lively conversation circle, you can open with something as simple as, “Hey guys, what am I missing over here?” Just join in, get introduced, and meet some new people. Let the conversation flow naturally from there.
Second, don’t focus too much on selling. The goal is not to immediately try to sell people on your services. Think longer term. You’re there to cultivate relationships, and they don’t always have to begin with or be directed toward a sale. Listen to people, think about what they need, and remember it for later. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is to connect two other people that need each other, and who will both be grateful for the introduction. It turns you into a player in the local market, and helps improve your profile. It’s a classic maxim of business and networking that if you help others, sales will follow, and you’ll also be developing contacts that are beneficial in a variety of ways.
Other Benefits Available through a Chamber of Commerce
• You can place ads in the membership directory online, or in its regular publication, to reach local businesses more effectively.
• You can participate in committees that relate to your business (e.g. a technological development committee, or something similar) and meet people in your industry.
• You can enjoy discounts (10-20%) on services from other members.
• You can establish credibility by incorporating your chamber of commerce’s logo into your marketing collateral, business card, etc.
Chambers of commerce present a wealth of opportunities to mobile app resellers to get to know their market, make connections, and boost sales. And if one is good, two is better. Get involved in chambers of commerce today and you’ll soon reap the benefits.
