Why Should You Join the Chamber? Member Testimonials:
“When I started my business about 40 years ago, I wanted to find out how other more seasoned business people were running theirs. Why re-invent the wheel? Some of the same problems you face have already been dealt with by others. Some things they tried didn’t work, but they didn’t know that until they tried them. Now they know what works, and what doesn’t. You can live in a cocoon, and repeat all those mistakes, or you can mix with those who run successful businesses and be guided by their success.
The person you ask doesn’t even have to be in the same business as you. Many basic principles apply to all businesses. Sometimes we make it more complicated than it is. Years ago I asked a man how he turned around an industry that had been losing millions, and was now profitable. He said, ” I just did two things, increased the revenue and decreased the expenses.”
If you were in his company, and that of dozens of others, you would pick up many useful ideas and techniques which you almost certainly would not have thought of on your own. One of the best ways to meet this kind of person is by joining your Board of Trade or Chamber of Commerce (the terms are interchangeable). I know you’re busy trying to run a business, but you will find it doesn’t need to be demanding, and the rewards are worth it. Not only will you be in the type of company that can give you ideas, but you can network with others who might need your services, or might be able to provide a service to you which could be to your advantage.
There are also some interesting benefits which members can take advantage of, such as an excellent group insurance plan which is available to groups as low as one person, a discount on gasoline purchases, a monthly magazine which keeps you posted on what’s happening in business in the Atlantic Provinces. And I’ve saved what could be the most popular benefit for last: a special discount rate for businesses which allow their customers to use Visa and Mastercard.
But perhaps most important of all, you will have a voice in matters which are important to you. Chambers of Commerce advocate your concerns to governments on your behalf. It’s hard for an individual to get an audience with government, but your Chamber can do this for you. Just tell us what your concerns are. When we all work together, we are stronger. If you aren’t already a member, please join us. There are about 35 Boards or Chambers in Nova Scotia. We’ll be stronger if you are a member and so will you.”
Avvie Druker, Past President, Industrial Cape Breton Board of Trade
“As a chamber member, I enjoy having the opportunity to network with others. The Chamber provides excellent venues to establish business connections, allowing me to continually expand my contact list.”
Cathy Huntington, Regional Manager, Saint John Ambulance, Sydney
“Chamber sponsored functions, emails and newsletters keep me informed of issues and trends affecting our community. I am proud to be associated with an organization striving to ensure a prosperous future for Cape Breton.”
Jake Wall, Owner, Northside Trophies and Gifts Sydney Mines
“Our company supports the chamber’s effort to represent the business community in decision-making policies that affect our success. As well, I also enjoy taking advantage of the various networking opportunities to discuss with other members what our company offers.”
Dan Fogarty, Discount Car Rental, Sydney
“My chamber membership has allowed me to explore new ways to expand my home based business as well as develop networking contacts.”
Dorothy MacLellan, Home and Gift Collection Representative, Marion Bridge
“The Credit Union and the Chamber of Commerce both realize the need to further advocate to both economic development agencies and various levels of government for improved access to capital and quality programs that will address the needs of the business sector.”
Brian McGean, Manager, Princess Credit Union, Sydney Mines
“Being a member of the chamber allows our company to continue to build business relationships and effectively evaluate the needs of both present and potential customers.”
Darren Sorrey, Account Executive Ricoh Canada Inc, Sydney
“I enjoy the camaraderie and appreciate the leadership the Chamber demonstrates as a united voice for the Cape Breton Business community. Interacting with fellow chamber members allows me to keep abreast of trends affecting business.”
Brett LeBlanc, General Manager Quality Inn, Sydney
“As a member of the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce I not only participate in matters affecting our community but have gained access to an affordable Medical/Dental plan tailored to meet the needs of businesses as small as one or as large as fifty. The Chamber of Commerce medical plan is unique because the insurance base is spread over its 20,000 collective participants nationwide and this provides access to a large pooled plan generally not accessible to small individual companies. I urge you look into the non-taxable benefit, employee loyalty and the individual security to protect your future generated by this plan and consider membership in the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce. Together we can make Cape Breton grow.”
Gordon MacDonald, Managing Partner of Black & White Fisheries Ltd., Fourchu
“The Chamber of Commerce is a useful organization to make valuable local contacts and help grow business. It’s also a great way for our company to put something back into the Sydney and area communities where we live and work.”
Don Dickson, Wireless Representative, Nova Communications
“In my chosen profession as an accountant my clients often look to me for ways to save money. One way is through membership in the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce. One of the benefits of chamber membership is the discounted merchant rates for Visa, MasterCard and Debit Transactions which can save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars each year. Become a member of the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce and take advantage of their money saving benefits.”
Sheila Gillis, Tax Partner, MGM & Associates, Sydney
“As a chamber member I’m kept informed both locally and provincially. Attending Chamber-sponsored programs like the Breakfast for Knowledge sessions are a key to keeping up to date and educated. Comparing membership costs in relation to benefits equals good value for your dollar!”
Steven Van Nostrand, Owner, Belmac Supply, Sydney
“Having been members since opening 15 years ago, we at Cambridge Suites enjoy the ability to network and learn from fellow Chamber members. As a community minded company we’re proud to be associated with an organization which shares our values.”
Michele Bianchini , Cambridge Suites, Sydney
“Once I looked at the people and businesses who are members, I saw a great wealth of knowledge and the potential to learn from these members. Also, I find it to be a fantastic method of keeping a pulse on the local community and economic development.”
John MacPhail, Investors Group, Sydney
“The Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce is an organization that promotes progress and economic development. As General Contractors we have had a great working rapport with the chamber; both sharing the same vision.”
Clayton Barlett, Roclan Industries, Sydney
“Having past experience with the chamber of Commerce in another City, the Sydney and Area chamber of Commerce was the first place I looked for ways to grow my business and develop networking contacts in a new place.”
Angie Hawco-McNeil, Avis Rental Cars, Sydney Airport
“For me, the time I spend working with the chamber is very satisfying and an excellent way to serve my community.”
Dr. Alastair MacLeod, Mayflower Dental Center, past president of the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce
“Chamber membership allows my company to partake in professional development seminars, to stay on top of trends and to explore new ideas and opportunities in the market place. Give your company the edge it needs, become a member.”
Eileen MacNeil, Island Pride Marketing Co-Operative, North Sydney