Chambers of Commerce membership soars in difficult times

Networking with Chambers of Commerce

GWE Business West Chambers of Commerce, the network of Bristol, Bath, South Gloucestershire and Gloucestershire Chambers, experienced a bumper month for recruitment in March, exceeding all previous records by attracting 66 new members in just one month.

Rising to the challenges faced in an economic downturn, businesses are seeking new ways to keep business buoyant, and are taking advantage of organisations which can help them to add value and access new opportunities for development, such as maintaining sales, identifying new markets and investing in staff development – areas in which the Chambers of Commerce is already helping over 2000 members across the West of England.

Nigel Hutchings, General Manager of GWE Business West Chambers of Commerce, says “In these challenging times, a cost which is not attributable to the core work of a business may be seen as dispensable. However, we’re finding that both potential and existing members are realising that membership of their local Chamber is key in discovering new markets and accessing relevant advice to continue profitable trading.”

Networking through the Chambers of Commerce, which organises over 70 events and seminars each year across the region, has recently soared in popularity as it offers an alternative and cost-effective approach to traditional marketing – as well as an opportunity to take part in one of the region’s most active business communities.

And those members who are too busy to attend events are taking advantage of a range of online services that can help them to network online, access vital business information and promote their business – all for free.

GWE Business West Chambers of Commerce recognise the value in developing online opportunities for its members; re-launching the members’ zone on their website to offer an enhanced online service, which includes a more interactive online directory entry and improved promotional tools where members can promote their news, events, offers, jobs, case studies and tenders for free. The Chambers also facilitate online networks and access to news and business opportunities through social media, such as Twitter and LinkedIn.

In addition, ‘MyHRGuide’ is also now available free to full members via the members’ zone, providing instant access to a range of downloads. Small to medium businesses with little or no HR function will find this service invaluable in helping to guide their HR policies and processes.

Far gone are the days of an ‘old boy’s network’; modern Chambers of Commerce have evolved with the times, enabling a strong and dynamic community in which a diverse cross-section of businesses and individuals can thrive.

Active members can expect to gain value from a wide range of business benefits that include advice, information, networking events, representation and promotional opportunities, as well as significant discounts on many GWE Business West services.

For more information about GWE Business West Chambers of Commerce call 01275 373 373 or visit www.gwebusinesswest.co.uk