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Networking
and New Business Contacts
The Chamber offers members the chance to network directly with
scores of others who have the potential to become new customers,
suppliers or clients, and indirectly provides an even larger
pool of networking opportunities through those contacts. Among
the 540 individuals in the Chamber, there is sure to be a
contact that’s important for your business.
Guidance
The Chamber can put members in contact with a variety of local
and regional resources and expert assistance when business
problems arise. Again, a network of 540 is there to be called
upon.
Referrals
The Chamber office receives several hundreds of requests each
year for recommendations on goods or services provided in the
Fayette area. We refer only Chamber members whenever possible to
newcomers, visitors or residents.
Low-Cost
Business Health Care Insurance
Thanks to the power of group purchasing, the Chamber can offer
members a package of employee health insurance options that is
second to none. Even better, very small groups (even “groups”
of one!) are eligible.
Low-Cost
Workers’ Comp Insurance
Thanks to the Guard Insurance Agency in cooperation with the
Paul Sprowls Agency, the Chamber is able to offer members a
great deal on workers’ comp insurance.
Advertising
and Promotional Opportunities
Chamber members have many opportunities for inexpensive
advertising with the Chamber’s monthly newsletter,
ChamberUpdate. Sponsorship of the monthly calendar and
advertising through Chambertalk flyers will reach over 540
members. Members also have opportunities to advertise in the
Chamber’s city/county map and guides, in special promotions
and other programs sponsored by the Chamber for the public.
Chamber members also gain
visibility and positive public relations through their
sponsorships of special events - the Fayette County Independence
Day Celebration and Cookoff ™, and the Annual Scholarship Golf
Outing, to name a few.
Direct
Mail Promotion
The Chamber’s mailing labels are available for purchase and
use by members at a dramatically discounted rate. This provides
direct access to the prime audience of area business prospects.
Governmental
Advocacy
Through its Public Affairs Council, the Chamber provides members
with a direct link to local and state legislators, who attend
Council meetings to discuss issues of concern with business
people. The Chamber also acts as a coherent and organized “voice”
for members on issues of local and state concern, advocating
positions that have been discussed and agreed to by members in
Council meetings.
Personal
and Professional Development
The Chamber offers workshops and seminars to enhance business
and employee development in a variety of interest areas.
Recent topics have included briefings on possible new business
taxes, workers’ compensation law changes, time management
techniques for small business owners, using advertising dollars
wisely, and utility deregulation’s affect on small businesses.
Newsletter
Chamber Update, the monthly newsletter, keeps members informed
about Chamber activities and our community, and is a quick,
easy, and reliable way to stay in touch.
Special
Events
There is always something going on at the Chamber: breakfast,
luncheon and evening events that bring members together for both
business and pleasure, community festivals, business
teleconferences -- the organization is an active and vital part
of the community.
Business
After Hours
Members can host an After Hours event to introduce a new
product, a new branch office, a grand opening, or just because
it’s good business networking. Chamber members and their
guests can meet, exchange cards, and talk business - or pleasure
- in a relaxed atmosphere.
Council
and Committee Meetings
Special Interest Groups, task forces, and committees meet
regularly to plan and develop programs and activities of
interest to members. These groups most often provide an
opportunity to work on major projects for our community with
other business and professional people with the same interests.
Chamber
Member Listing
All members receive a free listing in our Chamber membership
directory and on our Internet home page, and receive updated
directories each year. The Chamber’s Business and Industry
Listing, soon to be updated, will provide even more exposure,
categorized in several different ways. It’s a
frequently-requested document.
Research
and Statistics
The Chamber office staff provides members with research
assistance for marketing purposes, and referral to more
comprehensive services when needed. A low, per hour charge is
posted to the members’ account.
Internet
Access
For members only, the Chamber staff will search the Internet for
a particular topic, or will help the member do the
search-Fayette Chamber members have their own computer
workstation in the Chamber office with Internet access and other
software available for their use.
Member
Discounts
Business discounts are available for Chamber members, from
Chamber members. The Member-to-Member Advantage program
encourages purchasing within the Chamber network.
Office
Services
Chamber members can use the Chamber office fax services,
Internet services, brochure design and public relations
services, customized training consultation, and other small
business services at no or low cost.
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