Creating a successful chamber ambassadors program is now more important than ever. An ambassador’s program is an example of referral marketing at its best. As a chamber professional, you can talk about how great your chamber is all day long but when a business owner hears why it’s important for him/her to join from another business owner in the community, it’s worth so much more. Keep reading for 3 keys to creating a successful chamber ambassadors group.
A member of the Chamber Professionals Group on Facebook asked:
Who has a successful ambassadors program? I’ve just had some high profile folks leave the board on good terms who want to stay involved. Also a few others who have been around a while that want ways to help the chamber that could support in this effort. Other thoughts and ideas about ambassador committees/programs are welcome. Thanks!
If you have some folks already in mind, you’re fortunate. If not,
A Successful Chamber Ambassadors Program Appeals to Pride
Creating an air of exclusivity for your ambassadors is essential. This is a position of great esteem and they’ll feel pride in being hand-selected to represent you. You need to go beyond making them feel valued. They must feel invaluable to you and the chamber. If they feel their importance to you, they will (feel obligated to) sing your praises. They are doing valuable work for you. Make sure the ambassadors are rewarded and motivated.
Chamber Ambassadors are Unique! Promote and Recognize Them
Your ambassadors are important and you know it. Give them a way to stand out in your community. Beth Bridges, former Membership Director at the Clovis Chamber of Commerce had stickers made for her ambassadors to put on their business cards. Name tags accomplish the same thing. Find some way to differentiate them from your average member. This will promote them as a go-to person for the rest of the community.
Clearly Communicate Expectations to Your Ambassadors
Yes, your chamber ambassadors are special but if your don’t let them know what you need from them, you may be underwhelmed. Give them the tools they need to be able to recruit for you. Let them know that they are the face of the chamber. If you expect them to be at ribbon cuttings tell them this. If there are chamber social media expectations, let them know this. While you don’t have to communicate each step they should take as an ambassador, letting them know what your general expectations are is the best way to help them meet them.
A chamber ambassador is a walking testimonial to the good your chamber does within the community. The fact that they are part of the existing business community first, and a member second, allows them to recruit for your chamber in a more subtle, appealing way. Taking time to get these three keys in place and thriving will help you create a successful chamber ambassadors program.
Guest post by Christina Green
