The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce recently completed a membership survey to gather information on how it can better serve its members.
“The feedback is extremely valuable as we work to continually improve Chamber services and benefits,” said Chamber President, Brad Richardson. “Overall the results speak very positively about the organization.”Many of the recommendations around programming and benefits are already being developed and implemented and 91 percent of respondents said they were very likely or somewhat likely to recommend membership.The online survey was available to all members. Of the 109 respondents, a majority represented businesses with 100 employees or less.
The respondents identified networking opportunities as the top reason why they are Chamber members followed by marketing and public relations for their company or organization.
While 58 percent had a positive impression about the monthly luncheons, respondents recommended adding more opportunities to network as well as seeking out new and different speakers.
“With some of the early feedback in hand, we decided to try the “Mix-and-Mingle” at the end of the October luncheon,” said Board Chairman, Greg Pawley. “It was very well-received.”
Survey results also pointed to a desire for additional programming including “Lunch and Learns,” “Business After Hours,” “Business at Breakfast” training and visiting other communities to explore best practices.
The Chamber recently completed its first “Business at Breakfast” series about marketing your business. “We had a great response and very positive feedback,” said Richardson. “Based on the success of this series and survey results, we will be adding additional programming.”
The respondents also indicated that Leadership Hardin County, Chamber Ambassadors and Chamber Councils were worthwhile to both the participants and the Chamber.
Additionally, respondents saw value in all of the communications tools the Chamber is using.
Richardson said the Chamber will conduct regular surveys and invited all members to respond. He added that recommendations are always welcome. “You don’t have to wait until the next survey. If you have a comment or suggestion, we want to know about it.”
