GREATER TOGETHER

It’s week two of my new position here at the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) and our managing editor asked me to write a piece about membership. I’m a Rockford area resident and have been for over 38 years, but I have never stepped foot into the Chamber office before taking this job. So, I’m thinking … What can I really share about membership as the new kid on the block? Then I thought … Wait, my first week is no different than any business person learning about GRCC. I share the same perspective that all membership inquiries experience.

So, here’s what I’ve learned in my short time at the Chamber. GRCC members are serious about connecting and growing their businesses. Members are the movers and shakers in the region; they are known and strive to stay at the forefront of the community. They know that making connections with the right people leads to increasing their chances of winning in business.

Connecting with a professional nonprofit organization like the GRCC lends third party credibility to everything your company does. In an age where so many products and services are commoditized, business owners need to find ways to stand out. B2B and B2C customers are more comfortable doing business with companies that are visible, engaged with their local community, and part of a professional organization. This is how businesses demonstrate that they care about the region and its people—whether they’re customers or not.

I’ve learned that the team at GRCC is creative, professional yet “real,” and engaged at multiple levels in the community. They care about small businesses with just a few employees as well as businesses with thousands of employees. They care about business retention and expansion and the growth of the community, creating a favorable atmosphere for businesses in the Rockford Region.

New this year, the GRCC has added Coffee & Connections events at our offices throughout the year to help members network. These “come-as-you-are” events have no agenda apart from making connections and learning from each other. As more people return to the office, there’s a greater desire to drop the multi-tasking video call and meet face to face with real people. It’s refreshing, and you know you’re being seen and heard.

Just the other day I met with a couple who are starting their own business. We sat down and discussed their plans and goals. They recognized that being part of the Chamber is a foundational first step to establishing and growing their business in the Rockford area. It’s great to know that we can help them gain exposure, connect with the community, build credibility, and develop professionally.

Personally, I look forward to taking part in many more of these meetings with new and existing GRCC members. I hope you’ll let me know how I can help bring value to your business and our community, so we can become Greater Together.