The Walton County Chamber of Commerce released guidance on May 20 for its members on how to make the most out of their online business listings within the chamber directory.
The chamber says that an active and complete online profile can significantly boost a business’s visibility and credibility in the local community. According to the announcement, “Your directory profile can be one of the first impressions people have of your business through the chamber website. That’s why keeping it active, updated, and engaging can make a major difference.”
The release details several steps members should take to optimize their listings, including adding logos, professional photos or headshots, detailed descriptions, current contact information, and links to websites or social media pages. The chamber emphasizes that businesses with more complete profiles appear more trustworthy and established: “Businesses with logos, photos, and detailed descriptions appear more trustworthy because they look polished and well-established.”
Members are encouraged to keep their information up-to-date by regularly reviewing their profiles whenever there are changes in address, services offered, team members or branding. The announcement also highlights additional features such as a new kiosk in the Member Information Room at the chamber office building designed to connect online visibility with in-person engagement.
Beyond maintaining an online presence, the chamber stresses participation in events as key to maximizing membership value: “The businesses that tend to get the greatest value out of chamber membership are generally the ones that show up consistently and actively participate in the community.” Suggested activities include attending networking events, joining committees or referral groups, volunteering at programs or sponsoring events.
In conclusion, the Walton County Chamber of Commerce underscores that while it provides resources like advocacy and education for its members’ growth, true benefits come from engagement: “But ultimately, the real power of chamber membership comes from engagement—and that part is all up to you!”
