Increasing Chamber Member Engagement is a Piece of Cake!
By Diane Probst, IOM, CCE
Creator and Founder of Chamberology
Increasing Chamber Member Engagement is a Piece of Cake!
Running a Chamber of Commerce comes with its challenges, and one of the most common is keeping members actively engaged. But what if I told you that increasing engagement can be as simple as baking a cake? With the right ingredients, a little preparation, and a sprinkle of creativity, you’ll have a recipe for success that keeps members coming back for more. Here are the essential steps to make member engagement a piece of cake!
1. Start with a Strong Base: Clear Communication
Just like every great cake starts with a solid foundation, strong communication is the base of Chamber member engagement. Keep your members informed with regular newsletters, social media updates, and clear event invitations. Make sure your messaging emphasizes the value of participation and the benefits of staying involved.
Pro Tip: Use multiple communication channels—email, social media, and even text updates—to ensure your message reaches everyone.
2. Mix in Meaningful Events
Every cake needs key ingredients, and events are the heart of Chamber member engagement. Whether it’s a networking luncheon, a workshop, or a community service project, events create opportunities for members to connect and find value. Make them exceptional with engaging speakers, unique venues, and content that delivers real value.
Pro Tip: Offer a variety of events—some formal, some casual—to appeal to different member preferences.
3. Add a Dash of Recognition
Recognition is like the icing on the cake. Celebrate member achievements, highlight member businesses on social media, and publicly acknowledge those who contribute to the Chamber’s success.
Pro Tip: Create a monthly or quarterly ‘Member Spotlight’ feature to showcase standout members.
4. Stir in Opportunities for Feedback
A good baker always tastes the batter, and a good Chamber leader always listens to feedback. Ask your members what they want to see more of and make them feel heard.
Pro Tip: Use short, regular surveys or host ‘Feedback Fridays’ to gather insights. Leverage event technology to enable live feedback via text or mobile apps during activities. This makes sharing thoughts quick and easy, empowering members to actively shape future experiences.
5. Serve with Consistency
Consistency is key in both baking and engagement. Whether it’s monthly events, weekly newsletters, or quarterly workshops, keep a predictable schedule so members know what to expect.
Pro Tip: Create a Chamber calendar and share it widely to build anticipation.
6. Sprinkle in Fun and Personality
Nobody wants a dry cake, and nobody wants a dry Chamber experience. Infuse your events, newsletters, and communications with personality and a little fun.
Pro Tip: Host themed mixers, fun contests, or lighthearted social media campaigns.
Ready to Bake Your Success?
Member engagement doesn’t have to be complicated. With these six steps, you’ll create a Chamber experience that’s not only valuable but also enjoyable for your members. After all, when you serve up something delightful, people will always come back for seconds.
So, what step will you put into motion first? Share your thoughts, and let’s start baking success together! Listen to the Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce here as they strategize on action plans for their Chamber Foundation.
Looking to increase your Chamber Member Engagement? Contact us here.
