Got a prospective member who is on the fence about joining your Chamber?Let's face it….it is a "big" ask right now.We are asking them to get up, get out, take the time and spend the money.In addition, we are competing with all that free stuff out there that occupies their time and pulls their attention.(Facebook, HBO, Twitter, YouTube, Google).

It is still a cautious market – one where the economy is driving slight pull backs.It is up to us to cut through the lack of optimism and give them a "reason" to come out and join the Chamber……"What will I learn?", "What will be the value to me?" are all valid questions that need to be addressed.Get to know your audience with surveys, suggestions, focus groups.Learn what the prospects want so you need to get out there and talk to the community.Don't isolate yourself to only deal in your Chamber world – get involved with other organizations where you have access to these important prospects.

You need to enhance the experience that they will feel.Power gravitates to power and excitement generates excitement….people have the need to join when the organization is successful.When a prospect comes to an event – welcome them with WARM& enthusiastic excitement….make them want to come back.If you have not chosen the "cream of the crop" of Ambassadors, do so now.Ask the leaders from your community to help out…ask them personally – they want to give back.Tap into the "Leaders and Legends" of your membership and get them involved.

Bring leaders together in a lunch series in a "Clash of the Titans" format.Have your Executive Director set up an "interview" style meeting at the front of the room and give an "Insight to Leadership".Sustainability is the new "black" so getting a "green" council together to help your members set up programs.Free paper shredding days need sponsors and those that want to work with you in kind.Any hot topics can be relevant to your community when you bring in a local twist.Newspaper reporters, anchors, radio personalities all have a community advantage with that local twist.Community colleges love Health Fairs and local hospitals and businesses love to sponsor them.Build it and they will come – hold training sessions on "how to" network and they will find a great return on their investment.

What will make your prospects convert to members are a great events, with a memorable titles, appealing "stars" for them to get to know, tag lines and an exciting and fun experience…..get out there and be creative, think outside the traditional Chamber box and most of all….have fun!

By Laurie Nadeau – General Manager – Commerce Advertising & Marketing