Make Your Home Based Business Known, Join a Chamber of Commerce
A Home Business Article Contributed by Donna M. Brown
Your Home Based Business Doesn't Have to be Invisible
Marketing is an important element in every business, including your home based business. One marketing tool that is frequently overlooked is membership in a local chamber of commerce.
A chamber of commerce is an organization of business owners who pool their resources together to form a corporate community. Regardless of how small or large your business is, you are will most likely be welcomed into your local chamber of commerce and encouraged to participate in activities that help to stimulate the economy. Chambers of commerce seek to educate business owners about important issues related to the economy and local business markets. They provide a strong system of networking and can help build your business through association with other professionals.
A Chamber of Commerce Can Offer Bolster Your Home Based Business
Chambers of commerce generally require its members to pay dues. Often the dues are based on your annual sales. In return you can realize:
A listing for your home based business on the Internet and in regular newsletters
Highlight articles that other business owners will see
Name recognition
Professional Networking
Shared advertising
Good will projects that can improve the image of your home based business in the community
Insurance Plans
Special seminars and workshops directed at bettering your business
Impressive publications
Grants
Scholarships
Motivational speakers
As a small home based business owners, you might never be able to afford these luxuries on your own. That's why it's important for your home based business to seem a part of the community team.
Regular luncheons, dinners and other mixers are frequently held. Take your business cards to these events with you and take every opportunity to tout the products and services you offer. You might find that some of your best customers are other businesses who would rather contract your services than try to duplicate them on their own. Once you get the word out and begin to develop professional relationships, you will be amazed at far reaching effects of word of mouth advertising.
Some chamber of commerce members might even refer some of their own clients to you during a busy season, or when they recognize a new service your home based business can provide.
Establish Your Home Based Business As a Solid Entity in the Community
If offered the opportunity, accept leadership roles in the community with organizations like the local chamber of commerce, Toastmasters, Lion's Club or Elks Lodge. When people see you as a community leader, you will gain credibility and eventually clients who are familiar with your volunteer work and your ability to deliver the things you promise. Even if they don't need your services today, they might remember your name in the future due to a leadership position in which you have served.
Check the local phone listings for the nearest chamber of commerce. Call the city office or use your favorite search engine on the Internet to assess the options that are open to you.
If you strategically place yourself in the forefront of your community, you could place your home based business in a favorable light that will brighten your path to business success.
