A MEMBER-TO-MEMBER ENGAGEMENT RESOURCE
Chamber Ambassadors are Chamber members in good standing who volunteer for a 12 month term to enhance member retention and involvement. Ambassadors are individuals who know the Chamber well, and can help educate new and existing members about the benefits of membership and involvement. Ambassadors are some of the most visible Chamber members, and have the opportunity to increase their network, as well as their leadership skills through the program. Members may apply for the Ambassador Program after gaining experience at the Chamber through programs, events and committees.
PURPOSE: Ambassadors are highly visible, prestigious volunteers who serve as the Chamber’s primary liaison to new and current Chamber members. Considered the goodwill arm of the Chamber, the Ambassador committee plays an essential role in member communication and retention, and each Ambassador is charged with conveying member needs, questions and concerns to Chamber staff, keeping our Chamber in line with our members’ desires. Upon their appointment, each Ambassador makes a commitment to build lasting relationships with the Chamber membership, particularly new members, in order to build a loyal, committed membership base that will continue to support, participate in and invest in the Chamber.
ROLE: Ambassadors actively promote membership in the Chamber, facilitate networking among members and encourage meaningful participation and involvement in Chamber programs and events in order to enhance the membership benefits received by each member, strengthen member commitment and increase long-term member retention. The Ambassador Program is coordinated by the Chamber’s Membership Director and the Vice Chair of Membership. Ambassadors will each receive monthly new member assignments, and Ambassadors can expect to spend 3-5 hours per month on their Ambassador duties. Ambassadors are expected to attend monthly Ambassador only meetings held at the Chamber office. The Ambassador meetings will be on the second Tuesday of every other month from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
A SAMPLE OF THE AMBASSADOR RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
In partnership with the Chamber Programs Department staff, the Ambassador will:
- Be available to attend Chamber new member ribbon cuttings and grand openings as a goodwill Ambassador of the Chamber
- Have a working knowledge of the Chamber, its staff, programs and events as well as councils and committees
- Act as a contact for new and existing members to help them in how to best utilize their membership benefits
- Have the opportunity to visit and recruit new member businesses, alongside a sales representative of the Chamber.
- Be strongly encouraged to volunteer at events and activities, such as (but not limited to) Business After Hours, the Annual Golf Tournament, the Annual Dinner and Meeting, The M&T Bank Great Big Chamber Auction, and the Economic Summit.
- Work as a greeter, table host, networking starter or other event assigned duties.
- Serve as the "eyes and ears" of the Chamber, providing necessary feedback to the Chamber staff to address, in a timely fashion, the needs and concerns of the membership.
Featured Annual Events
Economic Summit
The Tompkins Chamber presents key local issues impacting local businesses and developers, policy issues impacting the business community, and local insights from participants in a national economic outlook survey. Partnering with Ithaca Area Economic Development (IAED), the event includes important updates about our economy, workforce, upcoming projects, and strategies to move forward and achieve a sustainable economic recovery.
Annual Dinner & Awards
One of the premier business community events of the year, the Annual Meeting highlights the Chamber community and previews the goals and initiatives for the coming year. Come and celebrate the success of our business community and economic development with hundreds of local leaders and elected officials! Join us as we raise a glass to the companies, not-for-profits, and volunteers who partner with us to help our community thrive.
Golf Tournament
This day on the green combines top-notch golf with valuable networking and advertising opportunities. Held at one of the County’s finest and professionally-rated golf courses. Staggered start golf tournament with several prizes, including skins. Lunch and beverages provided.
Great Big Chamber Auction
See and be seen by the region’s top business executives and small business owners. The Great Big Chamber Thank You & Auction holds tremendous value to our sponsors, donors, and attendees as it is one of our most highly publicized and attended events. The Great Big Chamber Auction portion helps underwrite the events and programs that support our Chamber members. Traditional silent and live auction, networking, and nonprofit recognition awards.