Has anyone had experience of these bodies? I'm currently pondering joining my local one and wanted to get other peoples experienced opinion
Hi Loofah, the company I worked with on placement joined the Northern Ireland CoC, and while Im not sure how large yours will be, it does seem good to join. I think though it really depends on your line of work and your business, some may benefit more and since you have a Deli you could possibly work out catering meetings or such? Like anything it seems to be what you put in you get out. If anything the greater publicity from joining will help, especially as im sure they have better relations with local newspapers etc
Oh mine's massive lol This is actually for my main business which is consultancy so I thought it should be good for that. Thanks for the input
Personally I have no experience of the CoC, BUT, my fave football team, gave a presentation to the members of the Northampton Chamber, in respect of the upgrades they are making to the Stadium and the facilities it will provide for local companies (many of which had representatives in attendance). From this side, I think it makes great 'Networking' sense. I say go for it. ( I can link to a youTube video that chronicles the whole thing if you like (the one given by my fave team) ).
I have a lot of experience of CoC and, although it depends on how active your local one is, you should be able to get something good out of it. If it's for your business consultancy then you should definitely join. Most Chambers have regular networking meetings, usually over a light meal (breakfast, lunch or early evening). The idea is to get your face seen and to meet people. It might take some time to get a benefit out of it but, as Greecko says, you need to put something in to get something out. It would also be a good way to spread the word about your Deli. You could even offer to provide the food for a meeting, at cost. I don't know how big a turnout your local Chamber gets for it's meetings but if your Deli is big enough, and the time suits you, you can offer to hold it at your place. Chambers are always looking at ways of saving money by not having to hire a venue. Just think how many people you may get through your door for the meeting. you could probably offer it after you close for business if you normally close around 5.30 p.m. The other upside is that you get to know more about what's going on in your area. For most Chambers the memebership fee is not expensive - and tax deductable. If you have any particular questions you can PM me and I'll attempt to answer them.
This is all very encouraging! From what I've learned it's a pretty active and large chambers and I cannot for the life of me see why I haven't looked at it before. It sounds like it's good for local investment and good for me so win-win
