Chamber Adds Promotional & Informational Programs

First and foremost, Chamber membership is a tool for your business or organization. Members utilize our different programs and services depending on their business type, size, location and issues that are facing them on a day-to-day basis.  A big challenge for all chambers of commerce is to stay relevant and have an ongoing, ever-changing “list” of benefits that members may take advantage of.  From networking and promotional opportunities to money-saving and educational programs, the goal is to help our businesses stay open, grow and remain in our area.

To that end, the Chamber is excited to introduce two new (free) promotional programs as well an informational event that members may want to take advantage of.  First, members are now able to post a special offer or discount called a, “Hot Deal” on the Chamber website that is able to be seen not only by fellow members, but by all visitors to the Chamber website.  To view current specials, click on, “Membership Directory” on the home page and then, “Hot Deals.”  To post a special, members simply log in to their member account through the Chamber site and add the details of their offer. There is no charge for this program.  And not only is the offer on the Chamber site, but it also posts to the Chamber Facebook page and its Twitter feed, both of which are reaching more and more people each week.  Next, Chamber members will be able to feature their brochures, coupons and postcards on a new kiosk in the J.C. Williams Center on Franciscan University’s Steubenville campus.  This busy building serves as the hub of student life and houses the campus bookstore, a coffee shop, pub, post office, art gallery and the student-life offices as well as having ample hangout space. In addition, the lounge spaces have provisions to accommodate bands, live performances, dances and a variety of other social events.  It’s a great way to promote your local business to the students and faculty of the university.  To participate, mail or drop off 25 copies of what you would like to display. You will be contacted when more is needed.

Tomorrow, February 25th, the Chamber will be hosting its first, “Brownbag Lunch” session at the Chamber offices beginning at noon. These informational events allow members to be a part of an informational round-table on a different topic each month.  The format is simple and informal. Tomorrow’s topic is, “Promoting Your Business Through Trip Advisor & Yelp” and will be led by Brad Degenkolb, Sales Manager at the Weirton Holiday Inn.  Attendees bring their own lunch – drinks provided by the Chamber.  The cost is $5 per person for Chamber members and $15 for non-members. No RSVP is necessary. The program runs from noon until 1:00 but you may come at 11:30 to eat or network.  The Chamber is located at 630 Market Street in downtown Steubenville. Please use the rear entrance. And watch your mail for information on the March “Brownbag” topic – always the last Thursday of the month.