When Dan Smith, senior associate with 1868 Public Affairs, was asked why he joined the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce, he summed up his reason in two words – community relations.

“The Chamber is community-facing organization with deep relationships, not just with businesses, but community service partners as well,” Dan said. “That’s very important to me personally and professionally as someone who’s very active and engaged. I saw the Chamber as a way to help me build on that. And with the advocacy work I do, it’s a perfect fit.”

1868 Public Affairs is a full-service government and public affairs consultancy based in Trenton, NJ. Prior to joining 1868, Dan served as Senior Advisor to New Jersey General Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin.

A current member of the Princeton Mercer Chamber Board of Directors and the William Penn Bank Advisory Board, Dan has also served on the boards of the Mercer County Improvement Authority, the Coalition for Patient Rights and Safe Staffing, the Mercer County Central Labor Council, and the Hamilton YMCA Advisory Board.

Involved and Engaged

As a member of the Chamber board, Dan serves on the governance committee, with responsibilities that include everything from reviewing bylaws to providing oversight on the Chamber’s performance. He also serves on the legislative committee, applying his experience as a government relations consultant and government staffer.

“I try to be as involved as possible through the board and attending different events – networking events, Legacy of Leadership, legislative breakfasts, State of the County,” Dan said. “I want to meet other people, learn what they do, and see if there are ways to leverage our collective network to help each other. I’m not necessarily looking for business opportunities. I want to connect with people who are engaged in the community.”

Professional Relationships. Personal Friendships.

The diversity of Princeton Mercer Chamber membership, with professionals from dozens of industries, the nonprofit sector, and academia, has supported Dan’s professional growth and led to mutually beneficial relationships with 1868 Public Affairs. Rather than specifically seeking out potential clients, Dan has focused on building relationships that allow growth opportunities to happen organically.

“The greatest success I’ve achieved through the Chamber is a direct result of the true comradery of the group,” Dan said. “People who I’ve met have become part of my inner circle. Instead of just asking for referrals, these are people whose opinions I trust when life hits. It doesn’t have to be business-related. We’ve become resources for each other and bounce ideas off each other all the time.”

If you’re a new member or considering joining the Chamber, Dan recommends keeping an open mind about who you meet with and which events you attend.

“You just never know,” Dan said. “Don’t be afraid to interact with anybody or attend events outside of your field because every individual or event could create an opportunity for business or friendship. Be open to meeting anyone, and be willing to listen and give what you can to help. Find and support good people and they’ll support you.”