Networking

Diplomats
These volunteers are the Chamber’s primary liaisons to membership. They play a vital role in member retention, recruitment and communication. Being a Diplomat provides the volunteer with extended business contacts through active association with other volunteers and members, regular monthly meetings with other Diplomats and Chamber staff, and professional and community recognition for both the volunteers and their firms.

Business After Hours
This monthly event provides members with the opportunity to network with other members of the business community in an informal social atmosphere. Different businesses host the mixers each month.

Business Open House
A special event hosted by member businesses, which allows clients, friends, members, and the public the opportunity to ask questions and discover what each business is all about.

“Choose Charleston” Business Showcase
This one-day event held is designed to give Chamber businesses an opportunity to showcase their products and services to area residents and Eastern Illinois University students. Businesses reserve booth spaces in a professionally draped exhibit hall and local restaurateurs furnish samples of their specialties at the “Taste of Charleston.”

Annual Dinner
Held each January, the Annual Dinner gives members the opportunity to network on a grand scale. This gala event includes a silent auction which showcases member products and services and the announcement of the Outstanding Citizen of the Year.

Annual Golf Outing and Dinner
This annual day of golf, contests, food, prizes and fun in July is also a great networking event. Raffle prizes are donated by Chamber members.

Lootery
This popular social event, held every November, offers an evening of fun, networking and chances to win cash prizes.

Seminars and Workshops
Special guest speakers are scheduled to provide information on timely topics and issues of importance to the business community.

Committee Involvement
The Chamber has numerous functional committees for members to join. Committee involvement provides members the opportunity to network one-on-one with a smaller number of members and to work with people with the same interests and concerns. Committees meet at various times during the year.

Time and Involvement
If networking and making contacts is one of the main reasons you are considering Chamber membership, then remember that you will have to commit some time to the organization. Whether attending events, joining committees or sponsoring/hosting activities, you will benefit by having your name promoted through the Chamber. Remember, when joining an organization you will only get out of it what you put into it, so get involved and you will reap the benefits.