Thanks for the tips, Walkerva. I'll check to see if there is an Association for Small Business organization in my area. That may be more feasible, financially.

Originally Posted by walkerva

People don't generally call off the directory listing, but the introductions are priceless, so I don't mind the expense (which is considerable, but most events are free to attend).

That is another reason I didn't join the "larger" COC in my area. The events are NOT free, here. The most I would get is $10 off the cost of a regular event. It is more cost effective for me to pay the extra because I can't attend enough events to recoup the membership fee.

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Robin A. Holstein
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Quote:

The events are NOT free, here.

I know some of the surrounding chambers charge for events. Fees to attend make it harder to justify the cost, but thinking about it, non-chamber members can attend our events usually without charge, so I guess there isn't a big event-to-event difference in cost. I joined at first to give my business an sense of legitimacy, but I stay because I see the benefit of belonging for me.

I belong to a networking group that charges for event attendance, but membership was free, so it was a good investment. LOL.

I think the hard part about networking is finding a group that works for you and has the membership mix you need to help grow your business. I have been to some that really weren't a good fit for me and some that felt like home from the first moment.

I think it is worth it if the Chamber is properly managed. The problem we have here locally is that our chamber isn't very helpful at all. If you know some other people who work in businesses in your area I would ask them how they feel about their chamber.

I was planning to join one of my local chambers, but just reviewed the member list and there is another VA who is already a member. Now I'm not sure if it's worth it. Has anyone had a similar experience?

Don't let that stop you Donovanassit. Use the same mindset that the other successful businesses use. You don't see just one bank representative there. Nor do you see just one attorney there. The point of participating in these events is to build your network and your image in the business world. The other VA may offer a few different services, or you may have some unique offerings that the other one needs.

You may also find yourself teaming up with the VA to create a support type organization of VAs in the area and share advertising.

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Robin A. Holstein
Robin's Desktop Virtual Administrative Services
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Thanks, Robin. You're absolutely right. And great idea about possibly pairing up with the other VA!

I attended a chamber event tonight. Met alot of very interesting small business owners. Their members need us. I am not a member and the event was free, with GREAT food might I add. My typical rule of thumb is that I join organizations after I have gotten a client (or in some cases two) depending on the membership fee.. from them.

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Tamika R. Johnson, MBA, Principal
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I called a chamber yesterday and I'm attending one of their networking events for free next month. A great way to test the waters.

I'm thinking about joining my local COC. Thanks for the input.