Director's Corner

I regularly meet with 2 separate groups of Executive Directors – one group from communities south of Nordonia Hills (Twinsburg, Hudson, Cuyahoga Falls, Akron, Fairlawn, Barberton, Streetsboro, etc.); the other group is from the northern communities (Bedford Hts., Garfield Hts., Bedford, etc.). You may have noticed that I have been scheduling events with both groups, making it easier for you, my members, to broaden your horizons – and your list of business contacts! Although each Chamber has a distinct – and very different – personality, all of us Directors agree that attendance at ALL events has been down. We labor over decisions to cancel events, to charge or not to charge admission, should we have a sponsor, will another email anger our members? Mostly – WHAT DO WE NEED TO DO TO GET PEOPLE TO ATTEND OUR EVENTS??????? We all feel that

1. we are offering what you, our members, tell us you want
2. we are giving you the opportunities to make business contacts and develop relationships which will lead to more business
3. we are scheduling events where you are able to promote your business products and services
4. we are inviting speakers with expertise in areas that will help you run your business more profitably and efficiently
5. we are offering discounts on services and products that save you money AND promote other members.

Yet, as our chambers grow in size, attendance decreases. So I need some answers! Do you have them? Here is what I want to know:

1. Which events are your favorites?
2. What keeps you from attending? Time of day? Day of week? Cost? Facility? The specific event?
3. Do we have too many events? Do you feel that you must attend them all?
4. What would you like your Chamber to do for you? What were your expectations when you joined?

Let me know – please! The Chamber of Commerce IS its members. YOU tell me what YOU need!

That’s my opinion, and, as always, I’m open to hearing yours.

Laura, Executive Director

http://www.nordoniahillschamber.org/