By DOROTHY HARDEE
Dear Editor,
I am a small business owner in health care. Some of my neighbors say there is no value in Chamber Membership. A trusted health care business friend says, “If you see it in The Orlando Medical News, it is so.” Please tell me the truth, is there value in becoming an East Orlando Chamber (EOCC) Member? - Virginia, Small Business Owner & Physician practice
Dear Virginia, your neighboring businesses are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe there is benefit if they don’t see immediate results from simply becoming a member. They are unable to see beyond the sticker on their door and the annual membership payment made as a means of expanding their footprint in the community.
Yes, my friend there is value in a Chamber Membership. It exists in knowing 3 million businesses are currently part of a chamber of commerce throughout the country. When your clients know you are part of a local chamber, business will have a 63 percent increase in the likelihood that consumers will shop with you. Joining a chamber is a great way to be part of the community. This is important since 8 percent of small businesses fail because they don’t have a network. Alas! How dreary would the community be if there was no Chamber of Commerce to further the interests of businesses, helping to lobby for laws favorable to you.
The Chamber of Commerce was instrumental in persuading the federal government to institute a national budget and in gaining passage of the Federal Reserve Act in the early 1900’s. Its chief aims were to stop perceived over-regulations; increase production, develop new markets; provide more jobs; raise educational levels; build better cities; and keep organized business strong and increasingly effective.
In the 60’s the Chamber thought of business in a different way, fighting a war against crime and poverty. During the oil crisis of 1973, the Chamber pushed for expanding domestic production. In 1981, the Chamber launched the Let’s Rebuild America campaign to help support President Reagan’s Economic Recovery and Tax Act. The Chamber of Commerce was instrumental in the building of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Not believe in the Chamber of Commerce! You might as well not believe in small business. There is a 45 percent increase of favorability among consumers as a member of the Chamber. There is a 43 percent increase in awareness among consumers as a Chamber member. Your local reputation is increased 82 percent when consumers know you are a member of the Chamber and an 82 percent increased likelihood of future patronage from consumers. The data doesn’t lie.
Some business owners and physician practices say their schedule is demanding enough, thinking adding one more activity is unbearable. So why should you consider cramming time into an already hectic schedule to join and actively participate in the East Orlando Chamber of Commerce?
Membership offers numerous benefits and keeps your business on top of important, ever-changing issues and trends within the 440 square miles of East Orlando where you do business. In addition to increasing your credibility and visibility within the community, the EOCC has many committees, networking and professional leadership development opportunities. You can build your business while promoting developments of keen interest to the community.
You ‘ll gain a voice in government as the EOCC takes on tough issues and opposes new regulations, taxes, fees, assessments and costs directed at small businesses. It helps to protect the principles of free enterprise and aids businesses in being treated fairly. Make business contacts, receive the Chamber Newsletter, acquire customer referrals, expand your prospect base through events and programs, promote to potential clients through member exclusive advertisings and B2B advertising, as well as access to member-only discounts and services. The EOCC has something for everyone.
Health care providers are important to the community because they offer essential services. Health care is also a thriving industry sector offering a significant impact on our local economy. They are businesses providing vital jobs and have made the Chamber part of their success strategy. For one optometrist, networking was a small part of the key to success. The Chamber programs and relationships made through networking helped her practice grow exponentially. For a Marketing Director at a 76-bed rehab hospital, hosting After Hours, opening their doors to the community, as well as participating in events and forums has been a vital addition to business expansion. Building trust and confidence within the community and networking offered a springboard of success for an orthodontist seeking to expand business.
How is the East Orlando Chamber helping you grow your business? As we approach year 2020, our focus is on each industry offering tailored opportunities for exponential growth. From a Health Council focusing on the entire landscape with special attention to quality, cost and access; a Roundtable offering you a BNI focused referral network for healthcare professionals; events, programs and sponsorship to elevate your visibility; networking opportunities helping your business thrive; advocacy efforts with your business in mind and so much more.
No value in the Chamber of Commerce? Thank goodness chambers have been around since 1599 and the East Orlando Chamber since 1946. Let’s meet to discuss your business objectives and how the EOCC helps drive results making you a long-term member of one of the oldest established chambers in Central Florida. 407-277-5951 or eocc@eocc.org.
Dorothy Hardee is the administrator of the East Orlando Chamber of Commerce. Contact her at DorothyH@eocc.org
UPCOMING EVENTS
La Crema de Nona Networking in Lake Nona
(Every Tuesday)
Tuesday, December 10, 2019
8:30 – 9:30 AM Graffiti Junktion
9344 N Narcoossee Rd.
Orlando, FL 32827
On the Menu Educational Series: “Raising Capital & Ways to Do It”
Featuring Jennifer Englert, Darnell Mahone & David Michalski
Wednesday, December 11, 2019
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
East Orlando Chamber
12301 Lake Underhill Rd., Ste 245
Orlando, FL 32828
EOCC 2020 – Events, Sponsorships & More
Thursday, December 12, 2019
8:30 – 9:30 AM
Baldwin Fairchild Dignity Memorial
2420 Harrell Road
Orlando, FL 32817
Misters & Sisters Great LATE Lunch Adventures
Marlow’s Tavern Waterford Lakes After Hours
Thursday, December 12, 2019
4:30 – 6:00 PM
Marlow’s Tavern Waterford Lakes
547 N Alafaya Trail, Bld. J1
Orlando, FL 32828
Wednesday, January 8, 2020
7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Rio Pinar Country Club
8600 El Prado Ave.
Orlando, FL 32825
Registration is Required at eocc.org | Sponsorship Opportunities available
Chamber Luncheon – Board Installation & 2019 Chamber Awards
Wednesday, January 15, 2020
11:30 AM – 1:15 PM
Bonefish Grill Waterford Lakes
2301 Lake Underhill Rd.
Orlando, FL 32828
Registration is required
Please visit www.EOCC.org for a complete listing of December’s events
