Every business joins the Chamber for a different reason. Some are looking for greater visibility. Others want meaningful connections, business referrals, a greater voice, or ways to become more involved in the community. Whatever your "why" is, the key to getting the most from your membership is taking action early.

Here are the five things we recommend every new member does within their first 90 days to build momentum and maximize their Chamber membership.

1. Log Into Your Member Account

Your member portal is your Chamber headquarters.

Take a few minutes to log in, explore the features, and become familiar with everything available to you. We encourage adding multiple representatives from your organization to the account so they have access, receive communications, can register for events, and take advantage of member benefits.

The more people on your team who are engaged, the more value your organization will receive from your membership.

2. Complete Your Online Business Directory Profile

Your Chamber directory listing is valuable digital real estate.

To edit your Chamber directory listing, log into your member account (that you just created). Navigate to "Company Information." Take time to upload your logo, business description, contact information, website link, social media links, photos, and keywords that describe your products or services. Have a YouTube link that features your work? You can add that too!

A complete profile helps potential customers find you, builds credibility, and supports your local SEO by creating another trusted online presence for your business. You can also check your Reports within your account to see total views and impressions in the last 12 months, including your specific Member Page Views.

Don't overlook this benefit. It's included with your membership and continues working for you around the clock.

3. Attend Chamber 101: Where Membership Becomes Momentum

One of the fastest ways to jumpstart your membership is by attending our Chamber 101 orientation.

This session is designed specifically for new members, new representatives, and anyone considering Chamber membership, and gives you a roadmap for making the most of your membership.

You'll gain:

• Meaningful connections with fellow members, Chamber leadership, and Chamber partners.
• A better understanding of your member benefits and how to use them.
• Practical strategies to increase your visibility and support your business
• Opportunities to ask questions and learn about the vision and direction of the Westerville Area Chamber.

Think of Chamber 101 as your shortcut to getting connected.

4. Follow the Chamber on Social Media

One of the easiest ways to stay connected is by following the Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce on social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram).

You'll see:

• Upcoming networking events
• Educational lunch & learns
• Ribbon cuttings
• Sponsorship & promotional opportunities
• Community events
• Business resources and announcements

Engaging with Chamber posts is another great way to increase your own visibility. Like, comment, share, and celebrate fellow members, and you can quickly become more visible.

5. Put a Chamber Event on Your Calendar

Relationships don't happen overnight, and they rarely flourish from behind a computer screen.

Whether it's a Business After Hours, committee meeting, Women in Business coffee discussion, or signature community event, commit to attending at least one Chamber event in your first 90 days.

You don't need to attend everything. Start with the events that align with your goals, introduce yourself to a few new people, and focus on building genuine relationships. Chamber networking isn't about collecting business cards. It's about creating connections that can lead to partnerships, referrals, and long-term business growth.

Your Membership Is What You Make It

Joining the Chamber is the starting point.

The businesses that see the greatest return on their membership are the ones that stay engaged, show up consistently, and take advantage of the many opportunities available throughout the year.

If you're ever unsure where to begin or which opportunities are the best fit for your goals, we're here to help. We'd love to connect you with the people, programs, and resources that will help your business thrive.

Welcome to the Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce. We can't wait to see what you accomplish.