Number 8 on the Maximizing Your Chamber Membership countdown involves participation in the Royal Oak Chamber's first large-scale event of the 2012 Season: the South Oakland Business Expo.
The South Oakland Business Expo, or SOBE as it is typically called, takes place Wednesday, March 7, at Club Venetian Banquet Center in Madison Heights. The event is designed with a dual focus, reflecting the Royal Oak Chamber's commitment to both area businesses and its community while giving members the ability to maximize their membership in two different ways.
By participating in SOBE, Chamber members can activate their membership by meeting and forming relationships with other member businesses. In its trade show environment, SOBE creates a unique opportunity for businesses to meet, network and form relationships. Relationships launched at SOBE can generate partnerships and the potential for business referrals, creating more business. SOBE has a designated networking portion built into the event from 9-11:30 a.m.
“SOBE connects Chamber members and facilitates networking and the building of business relationships,” stated Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Shelly Kemp. “In addition, the involvement of the Berkley, Birmingham, Clawson, Ferndale, Madison Heights/Hazel Park Chambers expands the potential partnerships and opportunities.”
Additionally, SOBE brings customers directly to the member businesses by offering an environment where consumers can “shop local.” Instead of relying on Internet or phone to connect them with a business or service, consumers come to SOBE and meet face to face with companies and potential providers. From 12-4 p.m., SOBE provides a business melting pot for potential customers to browse. So, when Chamber members participate this event, they can find new business opportunities.
“Consumers like to work with businesses that are committed to their community,” explained Kemp. “SOBE gives them a chance to meet and talk one-on-one with a variety of small businesses, empowering them to find the local resource that best fits their needs. By participating in SOBE, our members can increase their exposure and obtain additional business contacts.” Consumers like SOBE, because it gives them a more personalized opportunity to find a business or supplier. They can ask questions and develop rapport face-to-face. As a result of the two-fold aspect of the event, SOBE goes beyond business-to-business networking to shine a spotlight on key businesses in our community that are invested and interested in what goes on in South Oakland County. And, it attracts area residents and offers these consumers the chance to “browse” a variety of local businesses under one roof.
Accountant Beth Schensky of EA Schensky & Associates Inc. has participated and sponsored SOBE for several years. “SOBE has proved to be a great place to connect with fellow business owners from this area and meet and greet your potential clients visiting the show,” she said.
Events such as SOBE give area consumers a chance to comparison shop and see what's new in the marketplace of their own backyard. Added Kemp, “The Chambers are not just about businesses … we work to strengthen the link between local business and our community.”
The South Oakland Business Expo integrates networking and face-to-face consumer marketing. By participating in this event, Chamber members can yet again maximize their Chamber membership, developing business to business relationships and meeting new customers.
Jennifer Clark writes a monthly column for the South Oakland Eccentric.
Note: The South Oakland Eccentric will be among the businesses participating in the South Oakland Business Expo.
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