3 Important Reasons Why Joining Your Local Chamber of Commerce Will Benefit Your Business

Local chambers of commerce are invaluable resources to businesses of all sizes in their communities. I’d like to share some of the benefits Western Health Advantage has experienced from being members of 21 local chambers in 2015-2016 and encourage you to consider supporting your local chamber, too.

1. Do right by the community
Chambers of commerce grow local businesses by providing resources and leadership on local issues. Supporting your local chamber supports your local business community.

Additionally, our chamber memberships help WHA keep on top of issues and trends within our area. A well-functioning chamber is a storehouse of information on current business trends and public policies. Networking through chamber memberships allows WHA to be an active community leader on those issues and builds relationships.

2. Earn trust with customers
Surveys show that consumers think more favorably about companies who are involved in a chamber of commerce, compared to those who are not members. According to a 2012 study, 49% of consumers are more likely to think favorably of a local business and 80% more likely to purchase goods and services from the company if it belongs to the chamber of commerce. Chamber membership communicates to them that you are trustworthy, use good business practices, have a good reputation and aspire to be a leader.

3. Network with other Chamber members
Chambers host networking events, fundraisers, workshops, and other activities for connecting local business owners. As a trusted partner, WHA sponsors some of these fun chamber events and programs, which provide members with great opportunities to get to meet new people face-to-face.

Chambers typically have many committees and serving on one of them provides networking opportunities. Besides attending committee meetings to give input on community affairs and support local businesses, WHA takes out ads in chamber magazines and websites, as well as other publications and media outlets. WHA also educates businesses in the chamber about their options for offering health coverage for employees and staying compliant with complex health care laws. By taking advantage of the opportunities of chamber membership, WHA is able to act as a valuable resource for other member organizations.

So publicize your chamber membership and enhance your reputation! And if you are not yet a chamber member, consider becoming one to increase your visibility in the community.

Thank you to the 21 local chambers of commerce within our eight-county service area that WHA was a member of in 2015-2016. We continue to be impressed by the good work they are doing in their respective communities.

• Carmichael
• Citrus Heights
• Davis
• Elk Grove
• Fairfield-Suisun
• Galt
• Napa
• Natomas
• Petaluma
• Rainbow Chamber
• Rancho Cordova
• Rocklin
• Roseville
• Sacramento Asian Pacific
• Sacramento Metro Chamber
• San Rafael
• Santa Rosa
• Vacaville
• West Sacramento
• Winters
• Woodland