Chamber News & Views
Membership has its privileges. Remember that? American Express used that branding slogan from 1974 to 1987. I’ve now repurposed that branding for the chamber.
Joining the chamber does set you apart from other business owners. Membership gives you the chance to now belong to a group of like-minded people who support our community and each other. That support comes in the form of networking and a referral system. Once other members get to know you, then the referrals begin. As the old saying goes, we like to do business with people we know. So come to chamber events, and get your name and face out there.
Members-only territory includes our monthly coffees and Business After Hours. Until you join, you’re missing out on networking and refreshments before and after work. For the Business After Hours, think adult beverages.
Our monthly luncheon is for members and non-members alike…. but we tack a few bucks onto the non-member admission fee. We’re hoping after a few lunches; you’ll become a new member; then we’ll give you that sweet member luncheon price.
Non-members are invited to attend our weekly Wednesday networking group called the Exchange. Bring a stack of business cards and a brown bag lunch. Non-members can come for a bit, but then we will ask you to join. This networking and referral system was designed to benefit our members. Again, membership has its privileges.
Our two annual Business Expos give our members the chance to talk about their business and services to local residents. But sometimes, we’re just all about fun – think about the annual chamber golf classic. It’s designed for fun, but you can network if you want — it’s your choice.
And sometimes we want to do something good just because we can and should. On Friday, June 28, the Suncoast Community Health Centers has rented a bus for the chamber to go downtown to watch the Warrior Games’ wheelchair basketball finals. Seating on the bus is limited, so we need our members to sign up to cheer on our veterans and military personnel. But, for you non-members, call in to be placed on a waiting list. We will fill that bus and support our wounded warriors.
So, there you have it. I’m trying to recruit you non-members. How did I do? Just remember, membership has its privileges. And I‘m eager to welcome you to the Sun City Center Area Chamber of Commerce family.
Lynne Conlan is Executive Director of the Sun City Center Area Chamber of Commerce. Call her at 813-634-5111, or email lynne@sccchamber.com.
