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The year's midpoint is your wake-up call—refocus now to finish strong. Scrutinize your numbers to find what’s working (and what’s not). Reboot your marketing before seasonal shifts hit. Remove workflow roadblocks to boost team output. Reconnect with your business’s core purpose. 597 Words ~ 3 minute read The midpoint of the year often hits like a reality check: goals half-met, momentum lagging, and a to-do list that keeps growing. But this moment is also a strategic gift: a reset button that can set you up for a stronger, smarter second half. Here are five high-impact moves to help you reset with intention and finish the year with confidence: 1. Run the Numbers, Then Rewrite the Playbook Take a hard look at your financials. Are you ahead, behind, or coasting? Scrutinize revenue trends, margins, and expenses. Identify what’s draining resources and double down on what’s driving growth. Use the insights to reshape your financial strategy for the next six months, because winging it isn’t a plan. 2. Reboot Your Marketing Before the Fall Rush If your marketing has lost steam, this is your window to revive it. Launch a seasonal promotion, refine your messaging, or test new channels to re-engage your audience. And don’t wait to prep for fall. Holiday planning starts now. Review your content calendar, track past performance, and align campaigns with your business goals. 3. Clear the Roadblocks Slowing Your Team Small inefficiencies become big headaches by year’s end. What processes are wasting time? Where’s the communication breaking down? Invite your team to flag friction points and co-create solutions. Even modest upgrades, such as automating reports, streamlining meetings and clarifying roles, can drive major gains. Harvard Business Review explores how better collaboration fuels better outcomes. 4. Recalibrate Your Goals and Reset Priorities It’s okay if the goals you set in January don’t fit anymore. Priorities evolve. What matters is focus. Reassess your KPIs and trim anything that’s distracting from your top objectives. Reset your team’s focus around fewer, clearer targets so execution becomes simpler and more powerful. 5. Reconnect with Your Why Amid the grind, your original mission can get blurry. Take a step back to reflect: Why did you start this business? Who do you serve, and how do you want to show up for them? Realigning with your purpose energizes your leadership and clarifies your brand. Fast Company outlines how reconnecting to your “why” boosts both engagement and performance. Bottom Line: A mid-year reset isn’t just a productivity hack, it’s a strategic imperative. It gives you space to pause, zoom out, and ask the critical questions that get lost in day-to-day urgency. By evaluating your numbers, refreshing your marketing, streamlining operations, focusing your goals, and reigniting your purpose, you give your business the fuel it needs to finish the year not just intact, but thriving. This isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what matters most with greater clarity, consistency, and conviction. --- The Leavenworth-Lansing Area Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike. The Chamber has been granted license to publish this content provided by Chamber Today, a service of ChamberThink Strategies LLC.

Who isn’t feeling the pain of being stretched too thin these days? If you’ve dabbled with AI, you may have cut the time it takes you to do administrative tasks by as much as 26 minutes a day (at least according to a recent survey in the UK). However, it’s possible to do a lot more than that when you move past administrative tasks and see where else you can do more with less. One of these areas is content. Most businesses are sitting on goldmines of content and don’t even know it. This article will show you five genius ways to get more out of what you already have by repurposing and restructuring the media. 1. Turn Longform Content into Shortform Gold Feed your existing blog posts, eBooks, or newsletters into an AI tool to extract highlights, tips, or quotes for social media posts. Creative twist: Use AI to rewrite the same message in multiple tones—professional, humorous, casual—or tailor it for different platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook. 2. Transform Video or Podcast Transcripts into Written Content AI transcription tools can convert spoken content into text. Use a language model to turn that transcript into blog posts, newsletters, or Q&A articles. Creative twist: Convert a video transcript into a “Top 5 Takeaways” post, a tutorial, or a visually rich infographic with AI-generated headlines. 3. Create Content for Different Audiences from One Source Take a general piece of content (like a blog post) and ask AI to adapt it for different member personas such as new members, loyal/engaged members, or industry partners. Creative twist: Turn one blog post into: · A beginner’s guide on the topic · A technical breakdown · A “pitch” version for partners or press releases 4. Build an Email Series from a Single Piece Take a detailed guide or blog post and ask AI to break it into a 3–5-part email series, complete with subject lines, CTAs, and value-focused messaging. Email series can be very effective in helping your content get noticed. People may not take the time to read a 700-word blog post, but if you email the summary points across several days, they’ll get the gist of the message and will most likely remember it better than reading it all at once. Creative twist: Include AI-generated teaser lines or questions at the end of each email to boost open and click rates. 5. Reimagine Content as Interactive Tools or Experiences Use AI to turn tips, FAQs, or how-to guides into interactive quizzes, calculators, or chatbot scripts that educate and engage users. Example: Turn a skincare routine blog into a “What’s Your Skin Type?” quiz, or a business checklist into a “Startup Readiness Scorecard.” The titles you choose for the materials can make the content a lot more appealing. You can even use reimagined, designed pieces as lead magnets. People often won’t recognize it in another format. Speaking of, upload any written content onto NotebookLM and create a podcast on the topic. You can even tell it which parts of the text you want it to pay attention to or avoid. There are so many things you can do with existing content and marketing collateral you already have. If you can’t think of any creative ideas on how to repurpose those critical pieces, ask AI. Tell it your audience and your goal behind repurposing the content. Then ask it to suggest some ideas to you. You’ll be surprised what it comes up with. ------------- Christina Metcalf is a writer and women’s speaker who believes in the power of story. She works with small businesses, chambers of commerce, and business professionals who want to make an impression and grow a loyal customer/member base. She is the author of The Glinda Principle , rediscovering the magic within. _______________________________________ Facebook: @tellyourstorygetemtalking Instagram: @christinametcalfauthor LinkedIn: @christinagsmith

Pause to Stabilize: Cut costs and renegotiate to create breathing room. Pivot, Don’t Panic: Explore new markets or customer segments while staying agile. Learn Fast or Fall Behind: Turn setbacks into insights through rapid experimentation. Guard the Downside: Hedge risks and protect what matters most. 600 words ~ 3 min. read Even seasoned leaders know the sting of a strategy that’s no longer working. But the real measure of leadership isn’t avoiding failure—it’s how decisively and creatively you pivot when the path ahead shifts. When strategic plans falter—whether due to market turbulence, internal missteps, or external shocks—leaders must act not with panic, but with precision. Drawing from Harvard Business Review’s “How to Rescue a Failing Strategy,” here are four pivotal moves to help regain strategic traction. 1. Pause to Stabilize If your strategy is wobbling, the first priority is to buy time without triggering chaos. Consider: Reducing burn rate by cutting non-essential expenses Freezing expansion plans that strain resources Renegotiating contracts or vendor terms to ease cash flow Retailers, for instance, might pause new store openings to refocus on e-commerce logistics. Nonprofits may temporarily halt new program rollouts to concentrate on core impact areas. This strategic pause buys clarity—and the space to think critically. 2. Pivot, Don’t Panic Locking into one approach can be dangerous when conditions change. Instead, design options: Enter adjacent customer segments Test low-risk partnerships or distribution channels Pilot tweaks to product offerings or delivery models For manufacturers, this might mean adapting existing equipment to serve a neighboring industry. Professional services firms could pivot to virtual delivery or a subscription-based model. Related reading: McKinsey on adaptive strategies 3. Learn Fast or Fall Behind Use turbulence as a catalyst to turn your organization into a fast learner. That means: Running controlled experiments on pricing, offers, or ops Creating real-time feedback loops from customers and staff Making strategic reviews more iterative, less static Construction firms might beta-test prefab components for speed and cost. Tech startups could A/B test UX changes weekly. Also worth reading: Bain on learning organizations 4. Guard the Downside Pivots come with risk. Your job? Minimize exposure while staying bold. Cap investments in unproven ideas Increase controls around key financial or operational processes Develop contingency plans for likely risk scenarios Think of this as smart aggression—pushing forward without leaving your core vulnerable. Bottom Line Every organization will face moments when strategy falters. The difference lies in the response. Leaders who act with focus—stabilizing, experimenting, and protecting—don’t just recover; they reposition for smarter, stronger growth. --- The Leavenworth-Lansing Area Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike. The Chamber has been granted license to publish this content provided by Chamber Today, a service of ChamberThink Strategies LLC.

Great service is expected; hospitality creates emotional loyalty. Hospitality isn’t just for restaurants—any customer-facing business can benefit. Small, personal gestures yield outsized business results. Leaders must build a culture where empathy and attention to detail are daily practice. Hospitality is your most human, and most strategic, competitive advantage. 613 words ~ 3 min. read Hospitality is the Hidden Edge: Why Emotional Connection Drives Customer Loyalty In a world where convenience is king and automation handles most transactions, one thing still sets great businesses apart: how you make people feel . That’s the difference between service and hospitality—and it’s more than semantics. It’s a growth strategy. The Key Difference Service is the technical delivery of a product or task. It’s checking the box, fulfilling the need, moving on. Hospitality is emotional. It’s about making someone feel seen, valued, and cared for. Here’s the truth: service can be excellent and still forgettable. But hospitality? That sticks. Why It Matters in Every Industry Though rooted in restaurants and hotels, the principle of hospitality applies everywhere—retail counters, healthcare clinics, banks, car dealerships. Anywhere there's a customer, there's an opportunity to offer more than service. Research from Harvard Business Review shows that emotionally connected customers are more than twice as valuable as highly satisfied customers—they spend more, stay longer, and refer others. Read more from HBR . That’s the business case. Here’s how to deliver it. Go Beyond the Transaction What turns an interaction into an experience? A name remembered. A birthday acknowledged. An unspoken need met. A hotel staffer notices you’re reading a mystery novel and suggests a nearby bookstore. A coffee shop barista starts your regular order when they see you walk in. These aren’t luxuries, they’re leverage. The CARE Framework To make hospitality a habit, leaders can use the CARE model: Connect: Greet with intention and attention. Acknowledge: Recognize repeat customers, life moments, or feedback. Remember: Note preferences or previous interactions. Empathize: Tune into emotional cues and respond thoughtfully. Train for this. Celebrate it. Build systems to support it. Build a Culture of Hospitality Hospitality can’t be scripted, but it can be cultivated. It starts at the top. Leaders must value it, model it, and reward it. As Gallup research shows, emotionally engaged employees are the ones most likely to create emotionally engaging customer experiences. Read more from Gallup Make hospitality a hiring priority, a training pillar, and a performance metric. The ROI of Being Human  Customer experience is today’s biggest differentiator—and hospitality is its heartbeat. It's not about doing more; it's about caring more. Businesses that prioritize human connection see better reviews, stronger loyalty, and increased revenue. Bottom Line Anyone can offer good service. Only intentional, caring businesses deliver hospitality. And those are the ones that win—not just customers, but communities. --- The Leavenworth-Lansing Area Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike. The Chamber has been granted license to publish this content provided by Chamber Today, a service of ChamberThink Strategies LLC.

Small businesses everywhere are realizing that success isn’t just about how good your product is—it’s about how connected your customers feel to you and each other. The new growth model that’s gaining serious traction? Community-led growth. This approach focuses on creating value and shared experiences before the sale ever happens. When done right, it doesn’t just build customers—it builds advocates and connections. But when done incorrectly, it turns potential fans into skeptics. Why Community Matters More Than Ever  Building a community isn’t just a feel-good strategy—it’s a competitive advantage. In an era where trust is low and attention spans are shorter than ever, people crave connection. A strong community gives your audience a reason to stick around, even when they’re not ready to buy and, like your favorite binge-worthy show, it has a lot of seasons and variations. For instance, it looks like a group where people share wins, ask questions, support each other, and celebrate progress. It’s people tagging their friends in your posts, offering advice in your Facebook group, and proudly using your templates or tools. Community turns one-time customers into long-term advocates, and it transforms your brand from a product into a movement. Let’s look at two recent real-world examples of multi-day webinars run by small business owners with something to sell. Both had a course or community behind the scenes. But the difference in how they built interest and trust made all the difference. Example 1: Teach First, Sell Later Tanya, a branding expert and course creator, ran a three-day webinar series on visual storytelling for small businesses. From Day 1, she delivered value. Each day, she taught a specific concept—like choosing brand colors, creating consistent visuals, or writing engaging captions—and gave attendees practical takeaways they could use immediately. There was no bait-and-switch. She also created a pop-up Facebook group where participants discussed what they learned, shared examples and wins, and supported each other. The sense of collaboration and energy in the group was palpable. People weren’t just learning from Tanya—they were learning from each other. She gave away free Canva templates to help people apply the lessons, and many posted their before-and-after visuals right in the group. By the time she introduced her paid course on Day 3, she had already built trust and delivered results. Her offer felt like a logical next step, not a sales ambush. The result? A strong conversion rate and a thriving community that stuck around long after the sales window closed. Example 2: Sell First, Hope They Stay Then there was Ashley, who held a webinar to promote her custom sales page software. From the first five minutes, it was clear the goal wasn’t to teach—it was to sell. She framed everything as “only possible with our proprietary system.” Instead of offering insights or techniques for improving sales pages, the entire event was an extended infomercial. Participants didn’t walk away with tips or strategies—they left with a pitch. Worse, the attendees were asked to “design their dream page” using mock-ups—but could only create fake versions unless they bought her software. No free templates. No tools. No shared community. Just a vague call to action: show off what you built… or could build if you paid. The lack of value meant there was no momentum, no conversations, and no community. Attendees didn’t connect with Ashley—or each other—because they weren’t given anything to connect around. What We Learn from These Two Designs Tanya and Ashley both had something to sell, but only one built a following. Community-led growth isn’t about avoiding the sale. It’s about earning it. When you give people real value first—before asking for a commitment—you build trust. And when you create a space for people to share, learn, and collaborate, you build something even more powerful: belonging. In a world saturated with content and competition, that’s the difference between being scrolled past and being remembered. How Small Businesses Can Embrace Community-Led Growth You don’t have to be a mega content producer to be like Tanya. Tanya and Ashley had the same resources at their disposal. Tanya saw sales as a final destination after a courtship and period of getting to know one another. She was confident that once they knew her and what she offered, they’d continue on with her paid program. Ashley, on the other hand, came at sales hard from the beginning and expected everyone would be so wowed by the tech that they’d hand over their credit card. To be more like Tanya and less like Ashley, you need to: · Teach before you pitch : Share something useful and actionable for free. Make your audience feel smarter, better, or more equipped just by showing up. · Create a space to connect : Whether it's a Facebook group, Discord server, private community, or Slack channel, invite attendees to join a space where they can talk, share, and celebrate wins. You’ll get the best results if your community is somewhere people are already connecting so it’s an extension of their online habit and not one they have to remember to log into and visit. · Provide tools to succeed : Templates, checklists, worksheets—something they can use right away goes a long way in building goodwill. People will feel like you’re interested in them and their success, not their wallet. · Make the sale a next step—not the first step : Let your offer feel like the natural progression of the learning journey, not the destination. Community-led growth isn’t just a trend—it’s the future of small business marketing. Those who lead with value and create spaces for connection will be the ones people follow, buy from, and tell their friends about. -------------------- Christina Metcalf is a writer and women’s speaker who believes in the power of story. She works with small businesses, chambers of commerce, and business professionals who want to make an impression and grow a loyal customer/member base. She is the author of The Glinda Principle , rediscovering the magic within. _______________________________________ Medium: @christinametcalf Facebook: @tellyourstorygetemtalking Instagram: @christinametcalfauthor LinkedIn: @christinagsmith

Have you ever wondered how you can compete with large companies like Amazon (or Walmart)? Well, the more important question may be more not be how but why. Mega retailers, like the two mentioned, aren’t looking to only sell their own products. They have launched large programs encouraging small businesses to use their distribution platform. So, do you really need to compete when you can harness their traffic to sell your goods on their sites? How Do I Sell on Amazon? According to Amazon, over 60% of its product sales now come from independent sellers, the majority of which are small businesses just like yours. These sellers have generated more than $2.5 trillion in sales over the past 25 years and now support over 2 million jobs in the U.S. alone. That’s not a side hustle—that’s a serious economic force. If you’re looking for a way to grow your reach, attract new customers, and build passive revenue, selling on Amazon might be your next smart move. Here's what you need to know if you’re considering it: 1. Pick a Selling Plan That Fits Your Goals Amazon offers two selling plans: Individual Plan – Great for new sellers or those testing a few products. You pay $0.99 per item sold, with no monthly fee. It’s a good low-risk starting point. Professional Plan – Costs $39.99/month regardless of volume. You unlock powerful tools, eligibility for the Featured Offer (formerly Buy Box), and better exposure. If you plan to sell over 40 items/month or want to scale, this is the plan to choose. Pro Tip: Amazon doesn’t advertise the Individual Plan as clearly—it’s usually hidden at the bottom of the signup page. 2. Understand the Fees (So You Don’t Get Surprised) Selling on Amazon isn’t free, and it’s important to plan ahead. Key fees include: · Referral Fees – Amazon takes a cut of each sale, usually between 8–15%, depending on the category. · Fulfillment Fees – If you use Amazon’s fulfillment service (FBA), you pay for storage, shipping, returns, and more. These vary based on size, weight, and season. · Inventory Storage Fees – Charged monthly and can spike during the holidays. · Other Potential Costs – These include ads, removal fees, long-term storage, refund administration fees, and high-volume listing fees. Use Amazon’s revenue calculator before listing to understand your costs and profit potential. 3. Choose How to Fulfill Orders Amazon offers two fulfillment options: Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) – You ship products to Amazon, and they handle everything from storage to returns. Bonus: Your products become Prime-eligible, which can dramatically boost sales. Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM) – You pack and ship orders yourself. You keep more control but also take on more responsibility. Most sellers opt for FBA for its convenience and exposure, but FBM can be a good choice for custom, perishable, or local products. 4. Create Listings That Get Noticed Your product listings are your virtual storefront. To maximize sales: · Use high-quality images (1000x1000 pixels recommended) · Write clear, keyword-rich titles (up to 200 characters) · Add bullet points that highlight product features and benefits · Include a compelling description Don’t skip keyword research. Knowing what your customers are searching for can make or break your visibility. There are affordable tools available to help you with this. And if you own your brand, register it with Amazon Brand Registry. It gives you added protection and access to advanced features like A+ Content and analytics. 5. Price for Success Amazon shoppers love a deal—but that doesn’t mean you have to race to the bottom by trying to be the lowest one out there. Instead: · Monitor competitor pricing (inside and outside of Amazon) · Use Amazon’s Automate Pricing tool to stay competitive · Understand the Featured Offer (Buy Box) – Winning this spot can dramatically increase your visibility and sales Being competitive doesn’t always mean being the cheapest. Customer service, shipping speed, and seller ratings also play a role. 6. Advertise to Drive Sales While Amazon brings the traffic, you still need to get your product in front of the right eyes. While the eyes are many on this site, so are the products. Most people will only scroll through so many pages of listings. To stand out, consider using: · Coupons and discounts to grab attention · Sponsored ads (pay-per-click) – Sellers say 30% of their sales come from Amazon Ads Start small, track results, and adjust your campaigns to improve performance over time. This is not a “set it and forget it” undertaking. 7. Track Performance and Scale Strategically Amazon provides a robust Seller Central dashboard where you can monitor: · Order defect rate · Shipping performance · Customer feedback · Inventory levels Keep an eye on your Account Health metrics—Amazon holds sellers to high standards, and consistently poor performance can lead to penalties. Also consider programs like: · Amazon Vine – Helps generate early reviews · Multi-Channel Fulfillment – Fulfill orders from your website using Amazon’s logistics · Global Selling – Reach international customers · Amazon Business – Sell in bulk to other businesses Is Selling on Amazon Right for You? Selling on Amazon offers enormous opportunity—but it’s not a perfect fit for every business. There’s a lot that goes into being successful on this platform. It’s great for consumer products, scalable inventory, and businesses ready to play in a high-traffic marketplace. You might want to think again and consider your options if you sell low-margin items or highly niche goods. If you’re a business seeking full brand control, it might be a painful stretch for you. Only you can answer that. Still, many businesses find Amazon to be a valuable addition to their overall sales strategy—not a replacement for their own website or in-store sales. Amazon is not just for mega-brands. It's a proven sales channel that can help your small business get discovered, grow, and thrive. With the right plan and preparation, it could be your gateway to new customers and lasting success. Additional Resource: Did you know your Chamber Listing can be converted to sell products and services? Click Here for more information ! Not a Member? Join Today ! Or visit our " Get Listed " page for a new option available to Leavenworth County businesses. --------------- Christina Metcalf is a writer and speaker who believes in the power of story. She works with small businesses, chambers of commerce, and business professionals who want to make an impression and grow a loyal customer/member base. She is the author of The Glinda Principle , rediscovering the magic within. _______________________________________ Facebook: @tellyourstorygetemtalking Instagram: @christinametcalfauthor LinkedIn: @christinagsmith

You’ve probably heard a lot about how AI is changing everything, especially how people search for local businesses. Tools like ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, and Microsoft’s Copilot are being used every day to answer questions like, “Who’s the best roofer in town?” or “Where can I find a local accountant I can trust?” And guess where these tools look for answers? Trusted, local sources, like your chamber of commerce. That means your chamber listing isn’t just about visibility anymore. It’s also about credibility. When your business is featured on the chamber’s website, you’re getting more than a backlink with hundreds of dollars. You’re being associated with a respected, established source of local business information. That sends a powerful signal, not just to Google, but to the AI tools that are shaping how people find and choose who to do business with. This kind of trust is hard to build on your own. The chamber helps you shortcut that by putting your business in a position of authority. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to improve your online reputation and as AI continues to grow, that value will only increase. If you’re already a member, make sure your profile is current and complete. If you’re not yet a member, this is one more reason to join . The future of search is changing fast. Being part of the chamber means you don’t have to keep up with every trend because we’re already doing that for you. Additional Information: Are you a new business? Already budgeted your expenses for the year? We've created a new opportunity to be included in our online directory. Visit our Get Listed page to learn more!

Reacquiring a customer is up to 5x cheaper than landing a new one. Personalized communication and data-driven offers rebuild loyalty. Solving past issues signals integrity and earns second chances. Consistent follow-ups turn past silence into renewed revenue. A structured win-back strategy boosts long-term retention and ROI. 622 words ~ 3 min. read Customer churn is inevitable—but it’s not irreversible. Former customers represent one of your most valuable and overlooked assets. Why? Because they already know your brand, your product, and your promise. With the right strategy, you can bring them back—and reignite both trust and revenue. Why Former Customers Are Your Best Leads Research from Harvard Business Review reveals it’s up to five times cheaper to win back a former customer than to acquire a new one. Even better? Reacquired customers often spend more and churn less. Yet most companies ignore this goldmine, focusing instead on top-of-funnel growth. Let’s change that. Step 1: Understand Why They Left Before launching any win-back campaign, diagnose the departure. Common causes include: A negative service experience Pricing or product fit concerns More enticing offers from competitors Life changes unrelated to your business Exit surveys, reviews, and support tickets are essential to uncovering these root causes. Step 2: Segment and Prioritize Not all lapsed customers are equal. Use your CRM to segment by: Time since last interaction Lifetime value Products purchased Loyalty status Prioritize those with high potential value or known dissatisfaction you can resolve. Step 3: Personalize Outreach Generic “We miss you!” emails don’t cut it. Instead: Use their name and reference past purchases. Acknowledge their absence (“We noticed you haven’t been back since January…”). Address known issues (“We’ve improved our shipping times significantly…”). Tools like Mailchimp, ActiveCampaign, and HubSpot make this scalable and automated. Step 4: Offer Meaningful Incentives Sweeten the invitation back with offers tailored to their preferences: 20% off their favorite item Early access to new features Complimentary consultation or VIP perks Pro Tip: Align incentives with why they left. If it was pricing, offer a discount. If it was service, offer personal support. Step 5: Build a Follow-Up Framework One message won’t do it. Develop a three-step campaign: Re-introduction email — Personalized with incentive Follow-up reminder — Share a testimonial or success story Final nudge — Include scarcity (e.g., “Offer expires in 48 hours”) Automate where possible, but stay human. Step 6: Repair and Retain When customers return, show them you’ve changed. Implement: Surveys asking what’s improved A loyalty program to encourage continued engagement Ongoing check-ins to stay top-of-mind Bottom Line: Lost customers aren’t truly lost—they’re waiting to be re-invited. With empathy, insight, and smart execution, you can win them back and strengthen your business for the long haul. The key is in personalization, resolution, and consistency. Start where others stop—and turn yesterday’s customers into tomorrow’s champions. --- The Leavenworth-Lansing Area Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike. The Chamber has been granted license to publish this content provided by Chamber Today, a service of ChamberThink Strategies LLC.

Since this is Small Business Month, we thought it would be the ideal time to call attention to some of the resources out there for the small business. With an increase in awareness of how important small businesses are to the local and national economies, large businesses are getting into the groove and pledging their support to help small businesses too. TikTok Gives Ad Credits TikTok has announced a $1 million advertising credit initiative to support U.S. small businesses during Small Business Month. This campaign aims to help entrepreneurs expand their reach and grow their businesses on the platform. Campaign components include: · U.S.-based small businesses can apply for advertising credits to enhance their presence on TikTok. · Small Biz Fest TikTok Academy Webinars. Starting May 15, weekly webinars will provide expert advice on creating effective ad campaigns. · “100 Ways to Grow on TikTok” Video Podcast Series. This series shares success stories and insights from entrepreneurs who have leveraged TikTok for business growth. · Small Biz Fest Roadshows. In-person events in Los Angeles, New York City, and Austin will offer guidance on optimizing TikTok strategies. Additionally, TikTok will highlight small businesses at state capitols in New York and Texas, providing opportunities for entrepreneurs to engage with policymakers and discuss the platform's economic impact. For more information and to participate in these initiatives, visit tiktoksmallbizfest.com . Stamps.com Grant Stamps.com has launched the Small Business Flexibility Grant, offering a $25,000 award to support U.S.-based service-oriented small businesses. This initiative aims to help businesses overcome operational challenges, particularly those related to manual processes like mailing and shipping. Key Details Eligibility: · U.S.-based service-oriented small businesses · Minimum of three employees · Operating for at least two years Application Period : May 1–31, 2025 Announcement of Winner : June 2025 Use of Funds : No restrictions; businesses can allocate funds as needed to enhance flexibility and efficiency. Applicants are required to answer questions about their business operations and how they plan to use the grant to address flexibility challenges. The grant is designed to empower small businesses to automate manual tasks and improve operational efficiency. For more information and to apply, visit www.stamps.com/grant Walmart’s “Grow with US” Program Walmart has launched the Grow with US program, a comprehensive initiative designed to support U.S.-based small businesses in scaling their operations and gaining national exposure. This program is part of Walmart's broader commitment to invest $350 billion in American-made, grown, or assembled products by 2030, aiming to support over 750,000 jobs. Program Overview Grow with US is a voluntary, four-step program offering: 1. Education . Access to Walmart’s Supplier Academy, featuring 30 e-learning modules across four learning paths: Welcome to Walmart 101, Retail Ready Capabilities, Business Fundamentals, and Advanced Learning. 2. Product Discovery. Opportunities to showcase products through Walmart’s U.S. Open Call, RangeMe platform, and Walmart Marketplace. 3. Mentorship. Pairing with experienced Walmart mentors to navigate the retail landscape. 4. Financing. Access to financial support through Walmart’s Early Payment Program and Bridge Marketplace. Participation Details Eligibility: U.S.-based small businesses can participate by providing a voluntary Small Business Administration (SBA) certification or requesting verification through Walmart. Open Call Event: Applications for Walmart’s annual Open Call event open on June 24, 2025. This event, scheduled for October 7–8 in Bentonville, Arkansas, allows small and medium-sized businesses to pitch their shelf-ready products directly to Walmart and Sam’s Club merchants. Road to Open Call Events: In May and June, Walmart is hosting regional pop-up events in cities including Orlando, Kansas City, Baltimore, Austin, Columbus, and Atlanta. These events offer entrepreneurs the chance to meet with Walmart buyers, receive feedback, and potentially secure a fast pass to the main Open Call event. Verizon’s Small Business Accelerator and Grant Verizon has announced a commitment to support U.S. small businesses through a $5 billion investment over the next five years. This initiative includes the launch of the Small Business Supplier Accelerator, aimed at integrating small businesses, many veteran-owned, into Verizon's supply chain by offering training, mentorship, and flexible procurement terms. Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program In partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), Verizon continues its Small Business Digital Ready program, offering: · Free online courses covering topics like digital marketing, finance, and operations. · Expert coaching sessions and community events to enhance business skills. · Access to $10,000 grants for eligible small businesses. Grant Eligibility and Application To qualify for the $10,000 grant businesses must: · Be a for-profit U.S.-based business. · Register on the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready portal: https://digitalready.verizonwireless.com/onboarding · Complete two learning activities (courses, coaching sessions, or events) between January 1 and June 30, 2025. · Submit the grant application by June 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM PT. Need a few more resources? Of course you do. You can never have enough. Check out this list from the US Chamber of Commerce. PS: Be sure to check out: Small Business Grant Program from the City of Leavenworth. Small Business Micro-Grant Program from Leavenworth County Development Corporation Grants Calendar from Kansas Department of Commerce Economic Development Incentives from the City of Lansing ------------ Christina Metcalf is a writer and speaker who believes in the power of story. She works with small businesses, chambers of commerce, and business professionals who want to make an impression and grow a loyal customer/member base. She is also the author of The Glinda Principle , rediscovering the magic within. _______________________________________ Instagram: @christinametcalfauthor LinkedIn: @christinagsmith

About Trideum Corporation

Many leaders mistake communication for clarity—assuming once it’s said, it’s understood. Misalignment often stems from inconsistent messaging, assumptions, and cultural "static." True clarity requires shared understanding, structured communication, and leadership presence. Clear communication systems—not just repeated messages—drive alignment and trust. 615 words ~ 3 min. read You’ve said it in a meeting, sent it in an email, and even dropped it into a slide deck. The message seemed clear: here’s the direction, here’s what matters, and here’s how we’ll get there. So why does your team still seem misaligned?  This is one of the most persistent frustrations for leaders. Not because they aren’t communicating, but because they believe they are doing it well—and often, they are. The words are clear. The logic is sound. The intent is positive. But the outcome doesn’t match. Team members are unclear on priorities. Execution falters. Morale dips. And the leader wonders: what am I missing? The answer isn’t more communication. It’s deeper clarity. The Illusion of Communication Most breakdowns in alignment are not due to a lack of effort, but due to a false sense of completion. Leaders assume that once something is said, it’s been heard. That if it’s repeated, it’s been understood. And if no one asks questions, it must mean everyone’s on board. But communication isn’t a one-way act. It’s a shared experience—subject to the filters, biases, emotions, and workload of every individual on the receiving end. In many teams, what derails clarity isn't confusion, but collision: between different versions of the message, between unspoken assumptions, and between what’s emphasized and what’s actually practiced. When team members sense these gaps, they fill them with their own interpretations. That’s where misalignment begins. Where Leaders Lose the Thread There are some common patterns, though they may show up in subtle forms. A strategic shift is announced, but day-to-day processes remain unchanged. A new priority is introduced, but older metrics are still tracked more closely. A bold vision is shared, but frontline managers aren’t equipped to translate it into next steps. Over time, these inconsistencies create what might be called “cultural static”—background noise that makes even the clearest message hard to tune into. In some organizations, this leads to paralysis. In others, it leads to fragmented execution, where everyone is moving—just not together. What Clarity Actually Requires Clarity isn’t just about reducing confusion. It’s about aligning interpretation. That means leaders must think not only about what they say, but how it’s heard. It’s less about repeating a message, and more about shaping a shared understanding. This begins with structure. Communication that connects typically follows a clear arc: what’s happening, why it matters, what we’re doing, and how each person contributes. It continues with consistency—ensuring every leader and channel reinforces the same priorities. And it deepens with reflection—creating space for questions, doubts, and honest feedback. Importantly, clarity requires presence. It’s not enough to deliver a message and move on. Teams need to see that their leaders are still in it, still listening, still reinforcing what matters. Without that, even the best message fades quickly. The Leadership Opportunity The good news? Most communication gaps aren’t permanent—they’re just unexamined. When leaders become more intentional about clarity, alignment becomes more natural. It starts to show up not only in what’s said, but in how people behave, how they decide, and how they lead one another. At its best, communication isn’t a script—it’s a system. A shared rhythm that keeps everyone moving to the same beat, even as the tempo changes. And clarity, done right, isn’t just about being understood. It’s about being believed, trusted, and followed. --- The Leavenworth-Lansing Area Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike. The Chamber has been granted license to publish this content provided by Chamber Today, a service of ChamberThink Strategies LLC.

Let’s face it, our daily habits often run on autopilot. We grab coffee from the same place, click the same websites when we shop, and call the same service providers without a second thought. Loyalty is great but what if, just for a moment, we paused and considered the impact of those everyday purchases? Small Business Month is the perfect opportunity to rethink where your dollars go. Instead of defaulting to businesses that may have no connection to the community, consider supporting those that are actively invested in it, Chamber members. These businesses, both large and small, contribute time, resources, and leadership to make your town thrive. From sponsoring events to hiring local talent, they show up for the community every day. Supporting small and local doesn’t always mean spending more. It just means being intentional. What if you swapped your routine drive-thru stop for a visit to the neighborhood coffee shop—even just once a month? Or replace a service you use with a chamber-member provider just down the road? Those small swaps can lead to big results for your community, and they’re often more rewarding, too. Where to Start? Try these swaps: Morning Routine . Your go-to coffee spot might be convenient, but have you tried a chamber member café lately? Many offer unique blends, homemade baked goods, and personalized service. Best of all, your dollars stay close to home, supporting jobs, community causes, and your neighbors. Grocery Shopping . From local markets to butcher shops and farmers’ markets, you’ll find fresh products and friendly faces. Swapping even a portion of your grocery list to local vendors supports farmers, entrepreneurs, and small producers in your area. Health & Wellness . Where do you work out? Where do you get your healthcare needs met? Many chamber-member businesses in these sectors offer wellness consultations, fitness classes, and personal service. Some cities even offer free or low-cost programs that introduce you to local instructors. Dining Out . Next time you’re hungry, try a chamber-member restaurant. Whether it’s a taco stand, food truck, or family-owned diner, you’ll enjoy a unique dining experience, and know your meal helps a neighbor succeed. Special Occasions . Need a gift, flowers, or a card? Shop small first. Local boutiques, florists, and artisans often carry one-of-a-kind items that are far more memorable than what you’ll find online. Many chamber members offer gift guides, curated selections, and even local delivery. Ideas for Making the Switch If you're ready to support local and chamber-member businesses, try this: · Swap one of your regular purchases to a chamber member this month. · Choose a chamber-member restaurant for your next meal out. · Use your local chamber’s business directory to find trusted service providers. · Visit a farmers' market or craft fair to buy locally made products. · Look for the Chamber Member decal (or badge online), ask a business if they’re involved in the community, or next time you’re at an area event see which businesses are there and patronize them in the future. What About Franchises? Yes, many franchises are small businesses and chamber members too. Often, they're owned by residents who are invested in your community. That corner sandwich shop, dry cleaner, or gym? Chances are good the owner lives in town, employs local workers, and contributes to the same causes we all care about. If they’re Chamber members too, you can feel confident your dollars are staying local. Why This Matters When you support local businesses, especially Chamber members, you’re doing more than making a purchase. You’re investing in your community. Chamber-member businesses are often the first to step up and support schools, sponsor festivals, and donate to local nonprofits. They hire locally, mentor young professionals, and create the kind of vibrant, thriving economy we all want to see.  This Small Business Month, challenge yourself to be intentional in your purchases. Try a 30-day chamber member spending challenge and discover just how many great businesses are in your backyard or set aside a dollar amount to be spent with your neighbors. Not only will you enjoy personalized service and quality products, but you’ll also be part of something bigger—a stronger, more connected community. And, in that, everyone wins. Want to find local chamber-member businesses to support? Visit LLChamber.com/member-directory or look for the “Proud Chamber Member” badge in your neighborhood. ----------- Christina Metcalf is a writer and women’s speaker who believes in the power of story. She works with small businesses, chambers of commerce, and business professionals who want to make an impression and grow a loyal customer/member base. She is the author of The Glinda Principle , rediscovering the magic within. _______________________________________ Medium: @christinametcalf Facebook: @tellyourstorygetemtalking Instagram: @christinametcalfauthor LinkedIn: @christinagsmith

Wow your customers. Exceptional service sparks natural buzz. Seed the idea. Subtle cues make referrals more likely. Give to get. Reciprocity drives more introductions. Make sharing easy. Equip clients with shareable content. Recognize your champions. Public thanks reinforces behavior. 615 words ~ 3 min. read In a world saturated with marketing messages, word-of-mouth remains one of the most powerful business growth tools. Yet asking for referrals can often feel pushy or awkward. The good news: it’s possible to spark more referrals—organically—without ever making a direct ask. Here’s how to build a referral engine that runs on generosity, excellence, and subtle nudges. Wow Your Customers It all starts with the experience. When customers are truly impressed—whether through speed, attention to detail, or delightful service—they naturally want to tell others. Prioritize consistency and small touches that surprise people. It’s these micro-moments that turn satisfied customers into raving fans. Make Sharing Easy Equip your customers with materials they’ll actually want to pass along. This could be helpful blog posts, visual guides, short videos, or checklists—anything that reflects your expertise and is easy to forward. Think of these as “conversation starters” your customers can use to talk about you without the awkwardness. READ MORE: Customer Referrals Are Contagious by Harvard Business Review Seed the Idea Gently You don’t need to ask for referrals outright—but you do need to make it known that they matter. In your email signature, on your invoices, or in post-project wrap-ups, include a line like: "Many of our best clients come from referrals. Thank you for spreading the word!" This keeps referrals top of mind while preserving the tone of appreciation. Give to Get Referrals are a two-way street. Proactively refer your clients, partners, and vendors when you can. When others see you championing their work, they're more inclined to do the same for you. This builds goodwill and a sense of mutual investment. READ MORE from Forbes on the power of reciprocity in business Recognize Your Champions Gratitude is a multiplier. When someone sends a new client your way, acknowledge it right away. A handwritten note, a small gift, or a public thank-you can make your advocates feel valued—and likely to refer again. The goal isn’t to incentivize; it’s to appreciate. Recognition cements the behavior you want more of. Bottom Line You don’t need a slick script or a referral program to grow through word-of-mouth. By focusing on service excellence, subtle cues, generous networking, and authentic gratitude, you create an ecosystem where your customers want to talk about you. Organic referrals are not just a bonus—they’re a reflection of how well you’re doing the fundamentals. --- The Leavenworth-Lansing Area Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike. The Chamber has been granted license to publish this content provided by Chamber Today, a service of ChamberThink Strategies LLC.

Another calendar page has come and gone and with it, we’re ushering in May and Small Business Month. There’s no better time to show some local love! Small businesses are the heartbeat of our community. They’re the coffee shops where we meet friends, the boutiques that stock one-of-a-kind finds, and the service providers who remember our names and donate to our causes. But before you think this is a new call to spend money, know that you don’t need a big budget to make a big impact. Every purchase (yes, there’s the money but wait…), referral, and review goes a long way toward helping small businesses thrive. Whether you have $5 or just five minutes, we have some creative, fun, and meaningful ways to support small businesses this month. So get out into our community and support those who help make it what it is. Small Business Is a Big Deal When we say support small business, most people think of our Main Street shops. But “small business” is any business that employs under 200 people. Ask yourself, what percentage of your weekly purchases are done with small businesses? Can you increase that percentage this month? Make a list of where you currently do business. Pull out your credit or bank card transactions. See where your money is going and how that could change this month. For instance, if you visit Starbucks every day, try a local place on the weekends or swap Starbucks for local out completely for this month. How does that feel?  But don’t stop there. There are a lot of things you can do that don’t cost a lot. 10 Fun Ways to Celebrate Small Business Month 1. Shop Small (and Share It!) When you buy from a local business, snap a photo and tag them on social media. Your shoutout helps them reach new customers—and shows your support in a way that goes beyond the checkout counter. Plus, a picture is worth a thousand words, and maybe even a purchase or two. 2. Leave a Glowing Review A five-star review on Google, Yelp, or Facebook can boost a business’s visibility and reputation. Take five minutes to write something kind about your favorite local shop or restaurant—it’s free, fast, and powerful. 3. Take the “Local Love Challenge” Try to do one locally focused thing each day this week: Monday: Grab coffee from an indie café Tuesday: Tag a small business you love on Instagram Wednesday: Leave a review Thursday: Buy a gift from a local boutique Friday: Recommend a local service provider to a friend Saturday: Try a new-to-you local restaurant Sunday: Post a selfie at your favorite business add the hashtag #ShopLocal #ShopLVCO Or if you want a monthly challenge instead, vow to spend $20 locally at a business you’ve never tried before or attend an event at a local business. 4. Buy Gift Cards for Later If you’re not ready to spend much now, consider buying a small gift card for a future visit—or to give as a birthday or thank-you gift. It gives businesses cash flow now and brings you (or someone else) joy later. 5. Host a “Small Biz Night Out” Make a night of it! Plan a dinner with friends at a local restaurant, pop into a few shops, and end with dessert from a neighborhood bakery. Bonus points if you post about your local adventure on social media! 6. Introduce a Local Business to a New Customer Word-of-mouth is still gold. Bring a friend to your favorite store, create a video/reel review on TikTok or Instagram, or tag someone in a post who might love a business’ products or services. Your recommendation could bring in a future loyal customer. 7. Get Involved in Chamber Events Check your local Chamber of Commerce calendar (like ours! Llchamber.com/events ) for small business events this month, networking opportunities, or to add your own! These events are a great way to discover new businesses and show your support in person. 8. Support Local on Social Can’t spend right now? That’s okay! Like (use the love emoji instead of just the thumb up), share, or comment on small business posts. It only takes a second to post a sticker or an emoji as a comment. Help them beat the algorithm and reach more people. Engagement matters more than you think. 9. Ask Businesses What They Need Sometimes the best way to help is to ask. Maybe they’re looking for volunteers, help spreading the word, or even someone to test a new product. Your time and skills could be just as valuable as a purchase. 10. Celebrate Them Loudly and Proudly Know a small business owner doing great work? Celebrate them publicly! Write a LinkedIn or Facebook post recognizing their contribution. Gratitude is contagious—and so is support. Small Business Month is more than a campaign—it’s a reminder that we all play a role in shaping the success and culture of our community. So this May, let’s think small, act big, and show our favorite businesses just how much they mean to us. Let us know how you’re supporting local this month—tag @llchamberofcommerce [FB] @lvlchamber [IN] and use #ShopLVCO so we can cheer you on! ----------- Christina Metcalf is a writer and women’s speaker who believes in the power of story. She works with small businesses, chambers of commerce, and business professionals who want to make an impression and grow a loyal customer/member base. She is the author of The Glinda Principle , rediscovering the magic within. _______________________________________ Facebook: @tellyourstorygetemtalking Instagram: @christinametcalfauthor LinkedIn: @christinagsmith

Resources for Small Businesses