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Social media is a Hulk-size time suck, but it is also one of the most effective ways to connect with your audience. That’s also why it’s so dicey to freelance that kind of thing out. But there are a lot of really talented folks out there who can help you expand your reach and connect. You just have to find the right ones. And since everyone thinks they can post to social, there are a lot of ineffective people posing as social media superheroes. Here’s how you can separate the talent from the try-hards:
 
Ways to Tell a Social Media Trixter from a Superhero
It’s tempting to hand your social media over to an intern or the nearest teenager in your life. After all, they’re on the platforms all the time. But they’re connecting in a social way, amassing followers and likes and not concentrating on conversions. You need someone who understands how to nurture a relationship to end in a sale. That’s not to say a teen can’t do that. But you need to have a conversation with them to make sure you are on the same page about your ultimate goals behind social media. Additionally, you’ll want to talk about the following things:

•  Stats and KPIs. If you’re working with someone to help you reach more people and increase your sales, you’ll want to know they have a track record of doing so already. If you’re their first client, make sure they can show you how they will gather the analytics and tell what’s working and what isn’t. Identify KPIs. If they tell you “Let’s try this and see.” That’s not enough. How will you “see”? If they guarantee 100 new followers before the end of the month, ensure you know what kind of followers they are. Speaking of…
  
• Know the target. Make sure your social media person understands audiences and the value of a like as it equates to your business goals. My TikTok is beginning to finally amass some likes. But guess what? They’re all from my teenage sons’ friends who enjoy making fun of my videos. They may “like” my stuff, but they will never buy from me. These are bogus numbers from a business perspective. Make sure your guru understands who you’re trying to target.
• Understand the offerings. Social media is not a science. What works for your ideal audience may not work for others. That’s why social media packages vary as much as restaurant food prices. Some people do retainers, some monthly and some hourly fees. Know what you’re paying for.
  

After you’ve narrowed down your list of social media people who seem capable, dig deeper into understanding how you would work together. Ask them to draw up a proposal or editorial calendar. Pay them for their time. Examine their ideas on how they plan to reach a larger audience. You’re looking for creativity here as well as things you may have already tried that didn’t work. No reason to work with someone who’s doing exactly what you’ve already done.
 
If They’re Going to Be You, They Must Know You
Finally, communication is key when looking for someone who will be representing you on social media. While a good social media person should ask you the following things about your business, if they don’t, make sure you communicate these important details.
 

1. Give specifics on your ideal audience.
2. Share past triumphs and trials.
3. Communicate the tone you want on your posts.
4. Agree upon the posting review process. Will you see posts before they go out?
5. Understand who oversees responses. If you do, will they call them to your attention, or will you need to monitor each day?
6. How far out will they schedule? Communicate how you want holidays to be handled and if there are any topics you don’t want to mention.
7. Will you supply content ideas and important dates to your business? This should be a partnership. If you’re running a sale, for instance, you should give your social media superhero notification of it and look for best ways to leverage this information.
8. Be clear about how you feel about content curation versus creation. Your social guru should have a strong understanding of how to leverage curated content for a larger audience without getting into permission problems.

 
The hardest part of handing your social media over to someone else is making sure their efforts fit your goals and remain authentically “you.” Don’t expect that putting someone else in charge means that they will take it off your hands in a “set it and forget it” kind of way. You want to remain a part of the social side of your business. After all, the success in that area is about building relationships and you don’t want to pay someone to do that for you. They can assist with the day-to-day posting, but the relationship should remain yours.

No matter what industry you're in, you can always learn from techniques used in other businesses. Particularly if those techniques lead you to ideas that help you connect with your audience. In this article, we're going to discuss an easy change that will transform your business's marketing and how people see your business. It's something you can do today regardless of your target market. It will work for everyone because it's all about connection.
 
Industries that are pros in this technique are residential real estate and colleges/higher education. What do they have in common?, you might ask. Both understand the importance of being part of their target audience’s dreams.
 
And that's what you need to do if you want to improve revenue in your business.
 
The Residential Real Estate Way
If you've ever worked with a real estate agent to sell your home, one of the things they may have told you was to remove all personal effects, including family pictures. The logic behind this is two-fold. Number one, people get distracted by pictures and may spend more time looking at your vacation shots than your home. Secondly, when there are pictures of you and your family in the home it is hard for someone to imagine their family in your home. When you remove all your pictures, it is easier for a potential buyer to envision themselves in their new home, not yours.
 
You want the same in your business’ marketing. You want to encourage your potential customers to envision what it would be like with the services or products you provide. This dream/fantasy process must be a smooth one. Through content, you want to create a way for people to feel like they're home/in the right place. You want your products or services to be a part of their dreaming.
 
Finding Your Spot in College
Open a college or university view book and you will see an unimaginable world of fun laid out on glossy pages. There are many pictures of people in groups together smiling and enjoying the educational environment. Generally, the images in view books are diverse and show lots of different activities and people of different cultures and ethnicities. That guarantees that anyone looking at the view book will find something (or someone) they can identify with. Just like in real estate, colleges sell a vision.
 
Apply the Teachings of Real Estate and University Marketing to Your Business
What marketing people in both industries do well is help create a dream. They don't use scare tactics or worst-case scenarios to drive purchases or get people enrolled. Instead, they insert their products or services as part of a desired lifestyle.
 
You may be thinking your business or industry does not have a dream to sell. Maybe you're a plumber or you run a business that is anything but sexy. There is always a way to connect what you do with an ideal. Brainstorm what many people value—home, safety, love, beauty, for example. Then consider how your business may tie into those ideals. For instance, if you are a plumber, you are critical to the foundation of a functioning home. It doesn't matter how beautiful the home is, if the plumbing isn't working, it doesn't fit anyone's dream. The home is where we shelter our family, entertain our friends, and seek a safe harbor from the outside world. Good plumbing is essential to that dream. Think of a way you can tie that messaging in through evocative images and content. Don’t explain that directly. Show it.
 
Review your current website content, advertising, and marketing. What dream are you helping people achieve? How are you making their lives better? Most marketers use a problem/solution approach and that's not wrong. But if you want to change how you're currently marketing, consider how your business feeds into the dreams of your audience. When you help them see a better time, a better life, a better position, you can become a very integral part of their future.
 

Nestled in the heart of the breathtakingly beautiful state of Montana, Missoula is a city that effortlessly combines outdoor adventures, cultural richness, and a strong sense of community. If you're considering moving to Missoula or simply looking to explore this charming city, the Missoula Area Chamber of Commerce's website is your go-to resource. Their "Living in Missoula" and "Relocating to Missoula" sections offer a wealth of information and insights to help you make the most of your Missoula experience. All the information you need is just a clock a way!

Living in Missoula: An Insider's Guide
The "Living in Missoula" section of the Missoula Area Chamber of Commerce's website is a treasure trove of information for both newcomers and long-time residents. Here, you can find everything you need to know about daily life in Missoula, from housing and schools to healthcare and recreational opportunities.

1. Housing and Real Estate: Whether you're in the market for a new home, looking to rent, or considering property investment, this section provides invaluable information about the local housing market. You can explore different neighborhoods, learn about property taxes, and discover resources to assist in your housing search.
2. Education and Schools: For families with children, finding the right schools is often a top priority. Missoula offers a diverse range of educational institutions, from public schools to private academies and higher education options. The "Living in Missoula" section provides comprehensive details on these choices, making it easier for you to make informed decisions about your child's education.
3. Healthcare Services: Access to quality healthcare is a crucial aspect of any community. This website section offers insights into Missoula's healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical services. You'll also find information about local health insurance options and wellness resources.
4. Recreation and Entertainment: Missoula is renowned for its outdoor activities, cultural events, and recreational opportunities. The website showcases a calendar of events, popular hiking trails, parks, and cultural venues. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or a culture connoisseur, Missoula has something to offer you.

Relocating to Missoula: Your Comprehensive Guide
If you're considering a move to Missoula, the "Relocating to Missoula" section of the Chamber's website should be your first stop. This section is designed to make your transition as smooth as possible.  Take the Chamber's Relocation Survey to get information and offers from our many member businesses excited to welcome you to our amazing community.

1. Community Overview: Gain a deep understanding of Missoula's unique culture and sense of community. Discover what makes Missoula a special place to live and work, from its vibrant arts scene to its commitment to sustainability and outdoor recreation.
2. New Resident Services: Moving can be a daunting task, but this website section simplifies it. When you're ready to set up services for your new home, this section will give you information on local utilities, water services, trash, storage facilities, internet and telecommunications, recycling and professional services.
3. Employment Opportunities: If your move to Missoula is job-related, this section provides insights into the local job market. Explore employment opportunities in various industries, and access resources for job seekers, including resume-building tips and job search platforms.
4. Business Resources: For entrepreneurs and business owners, relocating to a new city can present unique challenges. The website offers information on starting and growing a business in Missoula, including details on permits, licenses, and support services.

Conclusion
Missoula, Montana, is a city where natural beauty and community spirit converge. The Missoula Area Chamber of Commerce's "Living in Missoula" and "Relocating to Missoula" website sections serve as invaluable guides to help you explore and settle into this wonderful city. Whether you're looking for a new home, a job opportunity, or simply a vibrant community to call your own, Missoula welcomes you with open arms, and the Chamber's website will be your trusted companion on this exciting journey.
 

Have you ever attended a chamber event? If you’re not a member, you’re missing out. Before you think you don’t have the time to attend events, it’s important you know chamber life is not just mixers and ribbon cuttings. Chamber membership is one of the best-kept secrets for free or nearly free business resources like webinars, lunch & learns, and written collateral. Plus, a whole lot more. Chamber membership is one of the best business investments you can make for the money and return.
 
Is Chamber Membership Worth It?
Not if you don’t know why you’re joining. In this article, you’ll learn all the benefits chamber membership can give you professionally and how it is a worthwhile investment in your business. But before you sign up, for maximum benefit, you should be very clear about what you want out of membership.
 
Why?
 
Because you want to communicate that to the chamber staff when joining. When they know what you want, they can help get you on the right track. The chamber offers many benefits, and to get what you’re looking for, you need to ensure the chamber knows what that is.
 
Perhaps you’re not clear what you want out of chamber membership. That’s okay because after reading this list of why membership is a great investment you should have a better understanding of what’s important to you.
 
What Will I Get with Chamber Membership?
It’s always best to begin at the beginning. If you’re not sure what you need from the chamber, look at a list of member benefits and make a mental note of which of these things are the most important to you/your business:
 
1. Networking Opportunities: Let’s start with the obvious. Chambers offer various networking events, such as mixers, business expos, speed networking, and industry-focused lunches, where businesspeople can connect with other professionals, potential clients, partners, and mentors. Building relationships is one of the best ways to help your business grow.
 
2. Visibility and Exposure: Membership often comes with a listing in the chamber's directory, both online and in print. This can increase your business's visibility and credibility in the local community. Your chamber may have additional opportunities for your business like being listed on a business map, featured in their visitor’s magazine, or being invited to participate in a Wine Walk or other member-exclusive exposure opportunity.
 
3. Credibility and Trust: Being a chamber member can enhance your business's reputation as the chamber is generally seen as a credible organization that supports businesses. Membership shows your community you care about the area and have made an investment in it. Becoming a chamber member can also help people get to know your business (and show you’re connected) if you’re new in town.
 
4. Advocacy and Representation: Chambers represent the interests of local businesses to government bodies and policymakers, giving you a voice in local economic and regulatory matters. Being a member makes you part of something larger and thus amplifies your voice and business needs.
 
5. Business Education: Chambers organize seminars, workshops, and training sessions to help members stay updated on industry trends, business strategies, and best practices. Members and guests can learn from top-notch thought leaders for just the cost of membership or a token expense to cover the meal. It’s one of the most affordable (and best-kept secrets) in business education.
 
6. Marketing Opportunities: Chambers offer an array of advertising and sponsorship opportunities, allowing businesses to market themselves to the wider community. They often have large audiences/good traffic, name recognition, and a strong reputation—all helpful when looking where to spend your marketing budget.
 
7. Access to Resources: Members can access resources such as business development guides, market research, and economic data to help them make informed decisions. (Chambers also give away a lot of free information to the community including blog posts, newsletters, articles, etc.) Some chambers also offer extensive leadership programs for interested members to help them achieve their leadership goals.
 
8. Discounts and Exclusive Offers: Many chambers negotiate discounts on products and services for their members, ranging from insurance and office supplies to software and event tickets. Some offer exclusive member-to-member discounts as well.
 
9. Community Involvement: Being part of a chamber provides you with business-directed volunteer opportunities to contribute to community development and philanthropic activities, which can foster a positive public image for your business.
 
10. Referral Network: Chambers often refer their members to others who are looking for specific products or services, increasing your business's chances of gaining new clients. Check with your chamber as they also might offer referral groups that can be free with membership or a fraction of the cost of a BNI group.
 
11. Partnerships and Collaborations: Connecting with other businesses through the chamber can lead to partnership opportunities, joint ventures, and collaborations on projects.
 
12. Business Support: Chambers can provide advice and assistance to businesses, especially startups and small enterprises, on various aspects such as funding, legal matters, and growth strategies. Some offer business incubators, pitch contests, and other opportunities to launch and grow.
 
13. Government Relations: Chambers can help businesses navigate government regulations, procedures, and other challenges, as well as provide insights into legislative changes that might affect your operations or the business climate, in general.
 
14. Access to Influential Contacts: Chambers attract a diverse group of professionals, including local leaders, executives, and entrepreneurs, which can open doors to valuable contacts.
 
15. Brand Building: Active involvement in chamber events and initiatives can help build your brand within the local business community.
 
16. Market Insights: Chambers have access to economic and demographic data that can help businesses make informed decisions about their target markets.
 
17. Professional Development: Chambers may host training sessions, workshops, and leadership development offerings to enhance your professional skills. Your chamber may also have opportunities to help you step into a new skill or business. For instance, if you wanted to add the title of professional speaker to your resume and launch a speaking business, you may be able to start with the chamber. By speaking in front of members at a special event, you could build clientele and experience.
 
18. Local Support Network: Joining a chamber can provide emotional support, because you’re part of a community of business owners who face similar challenges. As well-meaning as friends and family are, if they’re not involved in business or your industry, they may not understand your challenges and triumphs the way your fellow chamber members will.
 
19. Access to Business Services: Some chambers offer their members business services such as mentorship, business incubation, space rentals, marketing, and consulting.
 
20. Membership Perks: While the chamber helps all businesses in the community, many chambers provide special perks to members like access to exclusive events, VIP receptions, ribbon cuttings/celebrations, and members-only resources.
 
Ultimately, the decision to join a chamber of commerce depends on your business's specific needs, goals, and offerings of the local chamber. Knowing what your biggest challenge is in business can help you see just how impactful a chamber membership investment can be to your business.
 

It's estimated there are about 310 million monthly active users and 900 million account holders worldwide. According to Linkedin, of that 900 million users, 199 million are in the US. The number of the site’s registered users has almost quadrupled in the past decade.
 
9 Ways to Leverage LinkedIn for Your Business
There are several ways you can leverage LinkedIn beyond job searches to drive growth and reap the numerous advantages the platform has to offer. Use it to:
 
1. Build an Engaging Business Profile
A well-crafted LinkedIn company page is the foundation for success on the platform. Ensure your profile showcases your brand's unique value proposition, mission, and offerings. High-quality images, a compelling description, and relevant keywords will attract potential customers and help strengthen your brand's online presence on a site that’s removed from a lot of the social media noise.
 
2. Target Prospects
One of the most powerful features of LinkedIn is its advanced search capabilities. You can use filters to identify your target audience based on industry, job title, location, and more. This allows for highly targeted prospecting to find potential customers and decision-makers within your niche, increasing the chances of successful conversions. You can also use it to research someone who’s going to a networking event you’re attending.
 
3. Improve Your Content Marketing and Thought Leadership
Have something to say about your industry, line of work, or process? Position yourself as an industry expert or approachable guru by creating and sharing valuable content on LinkedIn. Posting articles, industry insights, and thought-provoking or helpful posts can establish your thought leadership and build credibility among the platform's professional audience. Engaging content encourages likes, comments, and shares, broadening the brand's reach and attracting potential customers.
 
4. Join and Engage in Relevant Groups
LinkedIn groups provide an opportunity for you to interact with your target audience directly. By joining and actively participating in relevant groups, you can share your expertise, answer questions, and showcase your products or services (as allowed in the group). Provide value to the conversations. Don’t engage in overly promotional activities.
 
5. Gain a Wide Audience with LinkedIn Ads
With LinkedIn's advertising platform, you can reach your target audience with precision. By defining specific demographics and professional characteristics, you can create ad campaigns that appeal directly to your ideal customers. Sponsored content, sponsored InMail, and display ads can be used to drive traffic, generate leads, and ultimately increase sales. However, because of the professional users on this site, you’ll be paying more for the exposure than you would on Facebook or Instagram.
 
6. Strengthen Partnerships and Alliances
LinkedIn is an excellent platform for fostering partnerships and collaborations with other businesses. By connecting with complementary brands or potential affiliates, you’ll expand your reach and tap into new customer segments. Building a strong network of strategic partners can lead to fruitful collaborations, joint ventures, and shared promotional efforts.
 
7. Showcase Products and Services
Showcase your products and services directly on your LinkedIn company page. Utilizing multimedia elements like videos, infographics, and product images can help potential customers understand the offerings better. Customer testimonials and case studies will reinforce the credibility of your business.
 
8. Measure Analytics and Insights
LinkedIn's analytics tool provides valuable insights into the performance of your business content through engagement levels. By analyzing data regularly, you can identify what content resonates most with your audience and fine-tune your marketing strategies for optimal results.
 
9. Engage Employees
According to LinkedIn, 30% of a company’s LinkedIn post engagement comes from their employees making it an excellent way to connect with employees and provide valuable content for their networks. Your posts and presence on the platform can also help instill pride in employees as they share the important things your business is doing.
 
LinkedIn is not just a platform for job seekers; it's a goldmine for business owners looking to expand their customer base, engage with employees, strengthen their brand, and foster valuable connections. Embracing LinkedIn as a multifaceted tool for business growth can lead to increased visibility, heightened credibility, and, ultimately, a thriving and prosperous enterprise. And best of all,  it’s not owned by Meta.

NFIB Small Business Optimism Index May Result Highlights 

1. The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index increased by 0.4 points in May, reaching 89.4, but it has remained below the 49-year average of 98 for the past 17 months.
2. Small business owners' expectations of better business conditions in the next six months declined by one point to a net negative 50%.
3. Supply chain disruptions and labor shortages are ongoing concerns for small businesses, although their impact is less severe compared to last year.
4. Job openings that are hard to fill decreased by one point to 44%, a historic high.
5. The net percentage of owners raising average selling prices decreased by one point to a net 32%, indicating a downward trend but still at an inflationary level.
6. The net percentage of owners expecting higher real sales deteriorated by two points to a net negative 21%.
7. A net 19% of owners plan to create new jobs in the next three months, while 63% reported hiring or trying to hire in May, with 89% struggling to find qualified applicants.
8. Capital expenditures are a concern, with 57% of owners reporting capital outlays in the last six months and 25% planning capital outlays soon.
9. Small businesses face challenges with inventory management, as a net negative 3% of owners considered their current inventory stocks as "too low."
10. Labor costs and quality are top concerns, with 41% of owners reporting raising compensation and 24% citing labor quality as their top business problem.
11. Only 1% of owners reported unsatisfied borrowing needs. Financing ranked as the top business problem for only 4% of owners.

 
Key Takeaways:
To be more competitive in hiring, many small businesses are increasing what they pay.
Funding isn’t a large problem for 96% of small businesses polled.
Most businesses are still finding it difficult to hire.
 
Perhaps you’re viewing these results and feeling like this is stating the obvious. Workforce challenges are the main concern for most businesses, and it appears that raising salaries isn’t the panacea many assume it to be. That’s why it’s more critical than ever to become a part of your chamber and lend your voice to the issues.
 
What the Chamber Can Do for Your Business
The chamber can:

• Advocate for pro-business legislation and changes in laws to help improve the hiring situation.  
• Bring the community together to tackle workforce development issues to help ensure your future employees have the skillset you need to be competitive.
• Educate you on HR trends that are helping companies become employers of choice in their communities.

 
These are all things the chamber does behind the scenes that most people don’t think about. Whether you are a member or not, they are advocating for a pro-business climate in your area and beyond. But if you’re not a member, your specific needs aren’t being heard.
 
Contact your chamber today. If you are a member, let them know your challenges. Ensure your voice is heard. If you aren’t a member, consider joining. Your local chamber has a plethora of resources that can help you and your employees navigate these difficult times. There is no reason you should be alone, nor is there a reason that you should have to start at square one when there’s an organization that is already in place and ready to help with advocacy and education.
 
About the NFIB Small Business Optimism Index
The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index is a monthly economic indicator that measures the sentiment and confidence levels of small business owners in the United States. It is published by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). The index is based on surveys conducted among NFIB members, who represent a diverse range of industries and regions across the country. The index provides insights into the current and future expectations of small business owners regarding various aspects of their businesses, including sales, hiring plans, capital expenditures, and overall economic conditions. It is considered a key indicator of the health and outlook of the small business sector, which plays a crucial role in the U.S. economy.

 First, you’re probably thinking if everyone in the chamber (and beyond) reads this article and follows the advice here, no one will be unforgettable because we’ll all be following the same instructions. But in the words of the famous Dr. Seuss, “There is no one alive more youier than you” so being the same isn’t possible if you’re true to who you are.
 
With that in mind, let’s talk about how you can begin to standout and make worthwhile connections, even if you hate networking.
 
Why Should You Attend a Networking Event?
You either love networking or hate it, right? But networking events can be invaluable opportunities for you to expand your professional network, forge valuable partnerships, learn of opportunities before anyone else, and ultimately grow your business and/or career. Plus, they can be fun.
 
Still, when there are so many people in a room all trying to do the same thing you are—meet new connections—standing out in a crowd and making a lasting impression can be a challenge. But a necessary one because you want them to think of you when they need something.
 
Let’s explore the best ways for you to be memorable at the next chamber networking event, so you can meet potential clients, collaborators, and industry influencers.
 
6 Ways to Be More Memorable When Networking
Before we get into being memorable, it’s important to set a goal. Don’t go in hoping to meet “someone good.” Good means a lot of things. Do you want a good customer, a good business partner, a good influencer, a good friend, a good caterer…you get the idea. Knowing who you want to meet will help you devise a plan to be more memorable. Just as you would use different bait to attract a shark versus a deer, you’ll want to decide who you want to meet before working on how to be more memorable. Keep your goal in mind as you:
 
Shift the Focus
It can be awkward walking into a group or up to a person you don’t know. Most event hosts (especially the chamber) will be glad to introduce you to someone. Once they do, avoid awkward moments by focusing on the person you’ve just been introduced to. Asking someone what they do is good but often elicits a very short phrase, “I’m a lawyer,” for instance. Then you might say, “Wow. Great. My cousin’s a lawyer.” This conversation isn’t very memorable. On the other hand, if you ask them “What are you working on that you’re really excited about?” They’re going to open up. Another great hot topic is AI. Ask them if they’re using it or what they think about it.
 
Get them talking about themselves, their preferences, their knowledge/experience and listen. Speaking of…
 
Be a Genuine Listener
One of the most effective ways to be memorable is by being an active and engaged listener. Show genuine interest in the person you're conversing with, and ask thoughtful questions about their business, challenges, and goals. By listening attentively, you can demonstrate you value their insights and build a meaningful connection. People remember those who make them feel heard and understood.
 
Craft a Memorable Personal Story
Stories are powerful tools for connecting with others on an emotional level and they’re easy to remember. Develop a personal story that highlights your journey, passion, and the impact your business has made. Share it in a concise and engaging manner, leaving a lasting impression on your listeners.
 
Remember, a well-crafted personal story is not a monologue. The story may be about you, but it must have a broader appeal. You want someone to hear your story and be inspired to do something in their own lives, not feel like they’re watching a one-person, off-Broadway show.
 
Dress the Part:Follow the event's dress code but wear something you love. Your appearance reflects your brand's image, and wearing a favorite item will help you appear confident, credible, and approachable. Wear something that showcases your style and is memorable without being silly (unless your business is silly, then go for it). For instance, a consultant I know always wears a hat; the kind of hat is dependent on the occasion. A dog walker may always wear dog jewelry. An author of a pirate book may wear a chain with a gold doubloon. These branding elements help them be more memorable.
 
Use Creative and Memorable Marketing Materials
Stand out from the crowd by designing unique and memorable business cards, marketing materials, or giveaways. Incorporate your brand's visual identity and ensure that the design aligns with your overall messaging. Add a personal touch, such as a handwritten note or a relevant quote, to leave a lasting impression. People often keep creative marketing materials, making them a powerful tool for staying top-of-mind.
 
Be “On” at All Times
Have you ever watched a video that shows a celebrity or a VIP when they don’t know there’s a camera or mic on them? Sometimes it ends badly, and they say (or do) something that is out of character for how the rest of the world perceives them. The same can happen in a networking event. Don’t have a great event exuding graciousness, then step into your car and lean on your horn only to find out the person you’re making rude gestures to is the individual you thought you had a great connection with only minutes earlier. Remember, as a businessperson, people aren’t just looking to do business with you at the event. They want to see that you’re the same person on the clock and off.
 
Networking events provide you with a platform to showcase your expertise, expand your connections, and leave a memorable impression. By getting others talking, being an engaged listener, sharing a compelling personal story, using great materials, and staying “on,” you can create lasting relationships that will benefit your business. Be authentic, be memorable, and let your passion shine through. Those types of actions are infectious.

Chambers of Commerce are organizations that play an important role in promoting economic growth and development in their communities. One area where they can have a significant impact is in workforce development training and education. In this article, we will discuss the importance of Chambers of Commerce focusing on this area and how it can benefit their members and the wider community.

Firstly, it is important to understand the importance of workforce development training and education. In today's rapidly changing economy, employers are looking for workers who possess the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their industries. This requires ongoing training and education to keep up with the latest technological advancements and industry trends. Additionally, a well-trained and educated workforce can help attract new businesses to the community, as companies are more likely to locate in areas with a skilled labor pool.

Chambers of Commerce are uniquely positioned to help address these workforce development needs. As community-based organizations, they have a deep understanding of the local labor market and the needs of employers. They can work with their members to identify the specific skills and knowledge that are most in demand, and then develop training and education programs to meet those needs.

There are several ways in which Chambers of Commerce can focus on workforce development training and education. They can partner with local schools and colleges to develop programs that provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in local industries. They can also provide training and education opportunities for current employees of member businesses, helping them to upgrade their skills and stay competitive in the workforce. Additionally, Chambers of Commerce can work with government agencies and other organizations to secure funding for these programs, making them accessible to a wider range of people.

The benefits of these efforts are significant. By focusing on workforce development training and education, Chambers of Commerce can help their members attract and retain a skilled workforce. This can lead to increased productivity and profitability for local businesses, which in turn can help drive economic growth and development in the community. Additionally, these efforts can help reduce unemployment and underemployment in the area, creating more opportunities for residents to earn a living wage and improve their quality of life.

In conclusion, Chambers of Commerce play an important role in promoting economic growth and development in their communities. By focusing on workforce development training and education, they can help their members attract and retain a skilled workforce, drive economic growth, and improve the overall quality of life in the community. It is important that Chambers of Commerce prioritize these efforts and work collaboratively with their members and other organizations to develop effective training and education programs that meet the needs of local employers and workers.

Member-to-member discounts can be an essential feature of a Chamber of Commerce as it promotes networking, growth, and loyalty within the business community. These discounts encourage members to support each other's businesses, leading to increased sales and revenue for everyone involved.

Offering member-to-member discounts is a valuable benefit of a Chamber of Commerce membership as it provides an incentive for businesses to join and remain active in the organization. The discounts can range from a percentage off a product or service to a flat rate discount or even exclusive deals only available to members. These offers can also be tailored to suit the needs of different businesses, making them more effective and valuable.

The discounts can also create a sense of community and collaboration among Chamber members, encouraging them to work together and support each other's businesses. It can lead to referrals and new business opportunities, building relationships that may not have been possible otherwise.

Moreover, the discounts can be promoted through the Chamber's marketing channels, such as newsletters, social media platforms, and event promotions, providing additional exposure and visibility for member businesses. This exposure can lead to increased customer traffic and overall growth, benefiting the entire community.

In summary, member-to-member discounts play a crucial role in the success of a Chamber of Commerce. It helps to build a strong community of businesses that support each other, leading to increased sales, referrals, and growth. The benefits of these discounts extend beyond the individual businesses and contribute to the overall economic development of the region.

If you are a member of the Missoula Chamber and would like to offer a discount to members or the general public, all you have to do is sign into your member profile and under "Additional Resources" drop down menu, Click "ADD A COUPON".

As a small business owner, it's easy to get bogged down in the day-to-day operations of your business. You're constantly juggling tasks like managing inventory or staff, paying bills, and dealing with customer service issues. It can be challenging to find time to think about the big picture, let alone act on it. However, it's essential to think bigger if you want your business to grow and thrive. Now’s as good a time as any.

How Thinking Bigger Can Help You Grow Here are some reasons why thinking bigger is so important to your small business.

Thinking bigger helps you:

• Set and achieve goals: If you're only focused on the day-to-day tasks of your business, you may not have a clear vision of where you want your business to be in the next year, five years, or ten years. By thinking bigger, you can set ambitious goals that inspire you and your team. These goals can help you stay focused and motivated, even when the going gets tough.
• Stay ahead of or stand out from the competition: When you're running a small business, it's easy to get stuck in a rut. You may be doing things the same way you've always done them. By thinking bigger, you can stay ahead of the curve and be a leader in your industry. When buyers look at you and what you offer versus what the competition has, you can make an impression if you’re focused on their needs, including what they’ll need in the future. It also gives you the ability to charge more than what others are doing because you’re offering what they don’t.
• Attract top talent: Talented employees want to work for companies that are innovative and forward-thinking. By thinking bigger and setting ambitious goals, you can create a culture that attracts the best and brightest employees.
• Expand your customer base: If you're only focused on serving your existing customers, you may be missing out on opportunities to reach new markets. By thinking bigger, you can identify new customer segments, create new products or services, and expand your reach.
• Get recognized. Thinking big means you’re innovating and trying new things. Not only does this differentiate your business from the competition but also may help you get recognized, win awards, and receive additional publicity for your efforts. If you’re doing something that no one else has done, you may also find that people come to you for your expertise, which may translate to a spin-off business or consulting/expert/keynote opportunities.

 
So, how can you start thinking bigger as a small business owner?
 
5 Ways to Think BiggerTry these suggestions:

1. Set aside time for strategic thinking: Schedule a regular time to think about the big picture of your business. This could be a weekly meeting with yourself or a brainstorming session with your team. Don’t expect the ideas to come just because you’re sitting at your desk waiting. Sometimes activity brings on strong ideas. Ever notice how walking, driving in your car, or taking a shower is often when the best ideas come to you? Make time for activities that help you think and be ready to capture your ideas on paper, on your phone, or through an audio recording.
2. Focus on your core values and mission: Think about why you started your business in the first place and what you want to achieve in the long term. This can help guide your strategic thinking and decision-making.
3. Look outside your industry for inspiration: Attend conferences or read books and articles about businesses in other industries. You may find ideas that you can adapt to your own business.
4. Be willing to take risks: Thinking bigger often means taking risks and trying new things. Be willing to step out of your comfort zone and take calculated risks that have the potential to pay off big in the long run.
5. Stop settling. One of the many reasons some business owners don’t take risks is because they figure staying with what they know is safer. It absolutely is. Just ask Blockbuster.

 
Thinking bigger is essential for small business owners who want to grow and thrive. Growth requires change and big efforts are more likely to yield big returns.