2011 Regional Member Satisfaction Survey Results

Posted: Wednesday, January 26, 2011

The results of the regional member satisfaction survey conducted in December show local business owners remain satisfied to very satisfied with the benefits they receive from membership in both the Partnership and their local Chambers in 2011. The survey is conducted by the Partnership each year to help measure the success of the organization’s programs and events, and to solicit input on local business needs.     

Overall member satisfaction with local Chambers was 80% in 2011. Overall satisfaction with the Partnership was 81% in 2011. That compares with satisfaction levels of 70% and 56% in 2008, the first year of the dual membership organization model. Satisfaction with the combined benefits of dual membership was 79% overall last year, one percentage point lower than in 2010. 

The Partnership’s regional economic development program received the most improved overall satisfaction rating, with strong satisfaction responses for both the national promotion of the region’s assets in the national media (73%) and the Partnership’s role in the development of Capital Crossroads, a regional economic development vision and implementation plan (73%). 

The regional member benefits receiving the highest satisfaction responses were the OneVoice Weekly email newsletter (83%), the Regional Business Member Directory (78%), regional networking events such as Business After Hours and Chamber Nights (78%), education and professional development offerings (76%), and advocacy on federal, state and regional issues (73%).

The regional member benefits receiving the lowest satisfaction responses were reflective of the job market last year, with respondents indicating they did not have as much need for the jobs/resume database (49%), workforce relocation packets (42%), and workforce recruitment assistance (44%) during 2011.  

When asked if there were additional tools or resources the Partnership could provide to enhance their business, respondents requested information on business succession planning, legislation aimed at helping young professionals buy a business, entrepreneurial assistance, and a small business “beginners’ basics” program. All comments and ideas shared by respondents were shared with program staff to consider when planning 2012 programming. 

Response to the December survey was just over 5%, or 220 respondents.  That’s up from the 2010 survey response of 3.5%, or 146 respondents. The Partnership has approximately 4,300 business members.