BMull Consulting

The services I provide through BMull Consulting are primarily focused on internet marketing and website design. More often than not, discussions about internet marketing lead into talks about traditional marketing efforts and how then can be better enhanced.

I live in the Reading Pennsylvania area and I work with local businesses. One of the first initiatives a new (or existing) business does when they want to ramp up marketing is join the Greater Reading Berks Chamber of Commerce. Joining the local chamber of commerce shows that you care about the status of your business and want to be part of the local business community.

Joining (or re-joining) the chamber comes with a few perks that a lot of local members often overlook. Here are my top ten ways to utilize your Greater Berks Chamber of Commerce membership benefits when joining.

1.) Free radio spot on WEEU
WEEU is offers free 15-second spots of radio advertising to new chamber members.

2.) Free print ad in Reading Eagle
Pennsylvania law requires new business owners to run at least one print ad in a business publication. Your free Reading Eagle ad counts as your first official print advertisement in a business publication. Plus it’s free. Why not use it?

3.) Free print ad in Berks Mont
Berks Chamber members also receive one free ad in Berks Mont, La Voz, or other related publications. You have to act quickly on this offer since it expires within a few months of joining the chamber.

4.) Ribbon cutting ceremony
This is a great way to kick off a new office or retail location. The chamber will visit your location and take a photo of you with a large ribbon ready to be cut. They place the photo in the chamber newsletter to announce your new business.

5.) Mention in chamber newsletter
As I mentioned above, your ribbon cutting ceremony photo is placed in the chamber newsletter. From what I recall, the chamber places a text listing of your business when you first join. Once the ribbon cutting ceremony is complete, they they mention your business again when they print the photo.

6.) Free gift certificate for learning seminar
Each new chamber member receives a $50 gift certificate to attend one of the ongoing educational seminars hosted by the Greater Berks Chamber of Commerce. The seminars cover a variety of topics and are held on a regular basis. The schedule can be found on the Berks Chamber website.

7.) Access to the PRP program
In addition to a free learning seminar, the Reading Berks Chamber allows members to take advantage of their Professional Resource Program (PRP). The program provides a free consultation with another member of the chamber that has expertise in the area you are looking for. I myself have met with two companies to answer their questions about redesigning their website so I know there are good consultants available through the program.

8.) Listing on chamber website
The Berks Chamber has an online membership directory that allows members to list their business name and contact information. Every new chamber member should take advantage of this free online listing.

9.) Deals on advertising specials
WEEU, Reading Eagle, and Berks County Living will offer you a deal on advertising when you join the Reading Chamber. This can result in big savings if you planning on doing a local advertising campaign.

10.) Attend networking events
I left this one for last because it’s usually the first benefit people see from joining the chamber. Networking can be a great way to meet new business colleagues. I would definitely recommend attending a minimum of three chamber networking events each year.

If you have any of your own tips for using your Reading Chamber benefit, feel free to post them in the comments section.