Three Reasons to Join the Heritage Corridor Business Alliance in a Time of Economic Uncertainty
Times of economic uncertainty don't cause anyone to look for new ways to spend money. But, there are some investments in your business that even when you're worried about cash flow, are worth the return. Without those necessities - be they software or services - you couldn't operate. A membership with the Heritage Corridor Business Alliance (HCBA for short, the Chamber of Commerce serving Lemont, Homer Glen, and the surrounding areas) is one of those necessary business investments and here's why.
Uncertain Times Mean Unprecedented Business Challenges
According to a survey released in early January by the National Association for Business Economics, more than half of respondents believe the US is headed toward a recession in the next 12 months. An additional 11% of those polled think the economy is already in a recession (a recession is commonly defined as two consecutive quarters of shrinking growth). However, the severity and depth of the possible recession are matters of debate among most economics and market experts.
Whether we face a recession or not, growth is slow. Costs are up. Shelves are not as full as they once were. Some industries are already claiming a recession has hit them.
In times of economic uncertainty, businesses have greater needs that usual. It helps to have a partner looking out for your best interests. The HCBA is in a unique position to provide that assistance for a minimal investment - it breaks down to only $20.75 per month.
The Hidden Job Market
One of the reasons economists are slow to call what we're currently in "a recession" is because the job market on average remains strong. Employers are hiring. Sometimes, their hiring needs are even outpacing available, skilled candidates.
Through membership, you will be in a solid position to get to know the business community and superstars that aren't currently looking for work. You can get to know these to performers better than any 30-minute interview and in turn, potentially meet your next candidate.
The HCBA also is working on new projects for 2023 that will help put your organization in front of candidates and help you design your pitch to attract and maintain talent. Remember, once you get them in the door, you still need to work to keep them.
Public Sector Assistance & Advocacy
Whether you have your eye on pro-business legislation or are worried about a zoning issue, like anything else, business often goes your way based on who you know. As a member of the HCBA, your concert over business - your own or the business community - is amplified. Whether we speak to the city, state, or federal leaders, they are speaking on behalf of all businesses. This gives your concern more power among elected leaders.
The Heritage Corridor Business Alliance may also be able to help by placing your context in the larger picture. The zoning problem you are having isn't just abour your business property but all properties moving forward. We are well-suited to propose "if, then" scenarioes that can help you get the assistance you need quickly.
Economic Development
While economic development of the area may not seem like a pressing issue in your mind right now, it helps keep you in business, regardless of your industry. A strong local economy can help maintain prosperity even when the national economy is struggling like the minority-business owners did along Auburn Avenue in the 1930s. While the rest of the country was experiencing the crash of '29 and subsequent depression, Auburn Avenue thrived because its interests were protected.
The HCBA is dedicated to building community and ushing in smart economic growth so that everyone can thrive. Membership breaks down to a simple $20.75 per month and helps to safeguard your business interests and help you achieve your own goals as well as improves the business community, thus the community for all.
Join Now
To be taken directly to our membership application, please visit https://business.myhcba.com/member/newmemberapp.
If you want to learn more about the HCBA, including tangible marketing benefits that we include as part of our membership, please visit https://www.myhcba.com/become-a-member/.