2 minute read
Shifting Gears
CHAMBER AIMS FOR VIRTUAL PROGRAMMING TO SUPPORT MEMBERS
ust like many of the member businesses we serve, the Chamber has had to pivot and adapt during this challenging time,” said Barbara Rivera Holmes, president and CEO of Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.
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Regular Chamber programming will begin to resume as appropriate, but but virtual programs are here to stay as part of the Chamber's efforts to provide relevant and timely information to its members and connect them with valuable resources.
SOME EXISTING PROGRAMS, SUCH AS ITS POPULAR LUNCH & LEARN SERIES, WILL BE ENHANCED WITH A VIRTUAL OPTION.
The switch allows for more participation as people can view from their offices or homes, eliminating the barriers of time and distance. Holmes also sees the opportunity to utilize an online version of casual Chamber Chat meetings as another outreach tool to make members aware of benefits such as the member health insurance program.
Other Chamber programs, such as the annual Women in Business luncheon, may also go virtual with some additional in-person components. Started in 2017 as a way to bring together women in the workplace to share ideas and support one another, the popular event has grown steadily.
“We have many women-owned businesses in our area,” said Holmes, “and it is so important to be able to continue to engage and encourage them. Virtual programming is another way to connect and convene and create community.”
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INFORMATION ON UPCOMING PROGRAMMING WILL BE SHARED VIA SOCIAL MEDIA AND AT ALBANYGA.COM.
AS THE LOCAL BUSINESS COMMUNITY CONTINUES TO DEAL WITH SOCIAL DISTANCING GUIDELINES BROUGHT ON BY THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, THE ALBANY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IS PREPARING VIRTUAL PROGRAMMING OPPORTUNITIES DESIGNED TO EXPAND THE CHAMBER’S REACH AND MEET THEIR MEMBERS WHERE THEY ARE.
The Chamber joins a growing number of organizations that are adapting their ways of doing business in order to meet a changing marketplace. From educational institutions to board rooms to small businesses to attractions, there is a push to find innovative ways to connect with students, clients, customers, and visitors. Prior to COVID-19, it was generally acknowledged that technology was the key to the work force of the future. That future arrived sooner than anticipated as companies and workers were forced to shift to remote working, virtual meetings, and online ordering for delivery of goods and services to continue to get the job done. “People are meeting and working differently today. We understand that, and we will be right here to provide the resources and tools our members need in this rapidly changing business landscape,” said Holmes. “The Chamber serves numerous roles in the community, including as the connector and convener of businesses, resources and community assets. Our virtual programming allows us to continue providing that service and, in many cases, expanding its impact.”
