Facebook, LinkedIn and More
Every chamber should have a presence in social networking sites. These sites help build strong relationships by always putting a face to a name and helping chamber members learn more about each other by staying connected between meetings.
Almost all chambers host regular networking opportunities for their members. These events have tremendous value for building relationships between chamber members. Invitations are usually sent out via e-mail or mail. The problem is that this communication is closed-ended and doesn’t build communities.
Every time a member RSVPs to an event invitation posted on social media, the information is shared with their entire social network. They are not only sharing that information with other chamber members within their network, but also with potential chamber members. Events tend to grow virally when social media is used.
Social media also provides subtle reminders to the invitees. Every time a guest RSVPs, everyone in the network gets a gentle reminder. Also, as chamber members update their status, saying they are leaving the office to head to the chamber event, their network is reminded again. Once the members leave the event, the cycle begins again and they remain connected online until the next meeting.
This is the second lecture in a series from Brian Tomkins. He also has lectures on Blogs, YouTube and Ustream. To view these lectures, please do a keyword search (i.e. Brian Tomkins Facebook Chambers of Commerce). To contact Brian Tomkins, please e-mail him at BrianTomkins@
