Member Services - Information
Benefits of Membership in the Fayette Chamber
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 585 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 585 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.
Affordable Health Care Insurance - Thanks to the power of group purchasing through ChamberChoice, 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.
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 Government 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.