We're hearing a lot of talk among chambers of commerce about using Web 2.0 services and engaging your members with social media. First, what is Web 2.0?  Web 2.0 represents the changing of websites from providing information or e-commerce to interactive, collaborative, engaging communities.   Examples include social networking sites, blogs, wikis and photo-video sharing sites where visitors participate in the content generated and the “experience”.

Second, should chambers use social media?  After all, chambers are one of the original “social networking platforms.”  Do you really need to learn and use these new tools?  According to the 2008 Cone Business in Social Media Study, 93% of Americans believe that a company should have a presence on social media sites and 85% believe that these companies should use these services to interact with consumers.  The answer is yes.  

Your members are more tech-savvy.  They will expect you to communicate in ways they want vs. how you want.  That is the essence of Web 2.0.    The young professionals you hope to engage (new member sales) already use new media. If you don’t provide an “experience” they won’t be interested in your chamber. 

Using Web 2.0 services and social media is a necessity to engage your audience and demonstrate that your organization is still relevant in the world of virtual business (member retention).

To remain relevant to your audience, your chamber needs to be aligned with the newest media trends.   If you have ways your chamber (or member-based organization) is using social media to engage your members and prospects, please let me know at curt.moss@weblinkinternational.com.  I'd love to hear your stories.