You know the old adage, “It takes money to make money”? While that may be true, marketing and advertising don’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, some of the most effective ways to get your business noticed are either free or surprisingly affordable (especially with the technology available). Whether you’re just getting started or trying to grow on a tight budget, here are 15 creative and cost-effective ideas to boost your visibility and draw in customers. 15 (plus one bonus) Cost-effective Ways to Get Your Business Noticed 1. Partner with Your Chamber of Commerce Your local Chamber is a marketing gem hiding in plain sight. Many chambers offer affordable sponsorships, advertising in their newsletters, banner placement on their website, and opportunities to speak at or host events. Chamber membership also often includes social media shoutouts, ribbon cuttings, and business directory listings—all built-in exposure for your brand. Chambers have excellent reputations in their communities as well as good relationships. Many tourists and new residents rely on referrals from the chamber when they come to town. Plus, the rates chamber’s charge for this type of high-quality exposure is very reasonable. 2. Get Active on Social Media You don’t need to be on every platform—just the ones where your customers spend their time. Create short videos, behind-the-scenes posts, tutorials, or even humorous content to show off your brand’s personality. Authenticity performs better than high-budget polish. Be consistent with your posting too. The more people see you, the more they notice and recognize you. Soon you will be on their mind. 3. Run a Giveaway or Contest People love free stuff. Give away a product or service in exchange for likes, shares, or email signups. It’s an inexpensive way to create buzz and grow your audience fast. Or run a contest when you host a pop-up or sponsor a table at an outdoor event (if it fits for your business). You’ll get to talk to a variety of people. A fun contest that also gets you more visibility is encouraging people to check-in when they’re at your business. Then provide a quarterly prize to the person with the most check-ins. 4. Create Google Business Profile Posts Google Business Profiles (formerly Google My Business) are free and powerful. Use posts to highlight new products, offers, events, or blog content. Bonus: It helps with your SEO. 5. Use Customer Testimonials and Reviews Happy customers are your best marketers. Share their testimonials on social media, your website, and even printed materials. Ask loyal customers to leave reviews on Google, Yelp, or Facebook. Many people will write them when asked and when you make it easy for them to do so. Use links to get them where they need to be. 6. Get Involved in Community Events Sponsor a little league team, host a booth at a local fair, or donate a prize to a nonprofit raffle. Community involvement builds trust and visibility with your target audience. 7. Start a Referral Program Reward your current customers for referring new ones. A simple discount, freebie, or exclusive perk can motivate people to spread the word about your business. 8. Offer Free Workshops or Classes If you’re an expert at something, share your knowledge. Hosting a free online or in-person workshop can position you as an authority while attracting new leads. Share hashtags at your event to remind people to share on social. 9. Pitch Local Media Send story ideas or press releases to your local newspaper, TV station, or community blog. Journalists are always looking for local angles—your business could be the next feature. 10. Use Window or Sidewalk Signs Creatively A clever chalkboard sign or window display can stop foot traffic in its tracks. Make people smile, laugh, or think—and they’ll remember your business. 11. Create a Loyalty or Punch Card Program Encourage repeat business by rewarding customers who come back. Whether digital or old-school punch cards, loyalty programs keep your brand top-of-mind. It can also sway people to choose you more often. For instance, if they know they’ll get points from buying with you, they may go out of their way to do so knowing that they will benefit from it. 12. Offer a Limited-Time Promotion Scarcity sells. Use urgency—“for 3 days only,” “first 10 people,” or “today only”—to create buzz and spike short-term interest. 13. Join (or Start) a Local Business Collaboration Team up with complementary businesses for cross-promotions. For example, a coffee shop and a bookstore might do a “Read & Recharge” special. You both win. 14. Start an Email Newsletter Email is still one of the highest-ROI marketing tools. A simple monthly email with updates, deals, or helpful tips can keep customers engaged and coming back. 15. Use Your Vehicle as a Moving Billboard A magnetic car sign or vinyl decal can turn your commute into an advertising campaign. It's a one-time investment that works 24/7. Bonus: Watch your favorite brands. What makes you stop what you’re doing or stops you from scrolling. Even if they’re in a completely different industry, ask yourself how you might use what they do to improve your marketing. You don’t need a big budget to make a big impact. With some creativity and a willingness to show up where your audience is, you can get your business noticed without breaking the bank. And this isn’t a “choose one and you’re done” idea. These ideas are designed to get you thinking about what your audience will respond to. Then give it to them consistently so they get used to seeing you around. And remember—your Chamber of Commerce is here to help. Reach out and ask about marketing opportunities available to members. You might be surprised by how many resources are already at your fingertips.

Let’s be real. Elevator pitches can feel like a late-night infomercial–a robotic recitation of what your business does with an added exclamation point at the end. But for business owners and sales professionals, every interaction is an opportunity. A truly effective elevator pitch transcends mere information delivery. It's about forging genuine connections that can blossom into leads, partnerships, and lasting relationships. It's about making those precious few seconds count, not just for what you say, but for how you make the other person feel. What most people get wrong in their elevator pitch is that they make it sound like a commercial and all about them, when it should be about your audience. Forget the rigid templates and the pressure to cram every detail into a thirty-second spiel. This isn’t about broadcasting; it’s about initiating a conversation. The key lies in shifting your focus from simply explaining your business to creating a spark of interest and establishing a human connection. If you take nothing else from this article know that: the pitch must ignite interest The Psychology of Connection in Brief Interactions Humans are wired for connection. Even in brief encounters, we subconsciously seek common ground, shared values, and genuine interest. Your elevator pitch should tap into this innate desire. Instead of launching into a list of features and benefits, start with a relatable problem you solve or a shared passion that drives your business. Think about your ideal client or contact. What are their pain points? What are their aspirations? Craft an opening that acknowledges their world and subtly positions your business as a potential solution or a valuable resource. This approach immediately makes the interaction less transactional and more empathetic. Storytelling Elements That Resonate While quick is crucial, weaving in a concise narrative “elevates” your pitch. Instead of saying, “We offer marketing solutions,” try something like, “I help small business owners who are overwhelmed by social media finally find a consistent way to connect with their customers and grow their brand. I saw my own sister struggle with this, and that’s why I started [Business Name].” This personal touch and the hint of a story make your pitch more memorable and relatable. Focus on the why behind your business. What motivates you? What impact do you hope to make? Sharing a sliver of your passion can create an emotional resonance that facts and figures alone can't achieve. Tailoring Pitches to Different Personality Types Not everyone responds to the same approach. Observe the person you're speaking with. Are they direct and results-oriented? Focus on the tangible benefits and your track record. Are they more relationship-focused? Emphasize collaboration and shared values. Having a few variations of your pitch allows you to adapt to different personalities and contexts. Practice delivering each version so it feels natural and authentic, rather than forced. The Importance of Active Listening Post Delivery Your elevator pitch isn't a monologue; it's the opening line of a potential dialogue. Pay close attention to the other person's reaction. Are they asking questions? Are they nodding in understanding? Are they looking over your shoulder to be bailed out of the conversation the moment they see someone they know? Use their cues to guide the conversation. Be prepared to elaborate on specific points that pique their interest. This shows you're genuinely engaged and interested in their needs, not just delivering a pre-rehearsed script. A thoughtful question in return can further deepen the connection and open doors for future interaction. Ultimately, a successful elevator pitch is less about perfection and more about authenticity. It's about conveying your passion, highlighting your value, and making a genuine connection in a short amount of time. By focusing on building rapport and leaving a lasting impression, you transform a brief encounter into a potential steppingstone for long-term growth and meaningful relationships. So, ditch the robotic recitation and embrace the art of the connection – and your pitch will get you all the way to the top floor.

Some people think chambers of commerce work magic—and in many ways, they do. But to see real results and get the most from your membership, you need to be involved. Joining is a smart move, but the true value comes when you actively engage. If you’ve been wondering whether you’re making the most of your membership—or if you’re just starting out and you’re not sure how to get the most out of it—here are ten practical ways to tap into the value your chamber offers. 1. Show Up and Be Seen The simplest way to maximize your membership is to attend events. Networking mixers, educational workshops, and signature events, and more, put you face-to-face with other members, community leaders, and potential customers. Visibility builds trust, and trust builds business. 2. Introduce Yourself Online We offer a member directory website listing, members Friday newsletter, and a social media member spotlight. Take advantage of it! Ensure your business profile is up to date, includes a compelling description, and links to your website and social media. Tag us in your posts , we will share and engage boost visibility. We also offer more marketing exposure for members in the Friday newsletter. Ask us how to get involved! Speaking of… 3. Use Member-Only Marketing Perks We provide exclusive opportunities to advertise in newsletters (soon on our website), sponsor events, or be featured in business spotlights. These are far more affordable than traditional advertising and directly reach a targeted local audience. Ask about low-cost or free ways to get featured. 4. Host or Sponsor Events Sponsorships aren’t just about logos on banners—they’re about association and visibility. Whether you sponsor a workshop, host a networking mixer, or provide space for a meeting, you position your organization as a local leader and supporter of the community. Not into event sponsorships? There may be other opportunities, and maybe you even have a suggestion we haven't thought of yet. Many chambers are doing some innovative and fun events with creative sponsorship opportunities. 5. Participate in Advocacy Efforts Your chamber is your voice at city hall and beyond. Stay informed about local legislation, zoning and parking issues, and economic development initiatives that affect your business. We host meetings throughout the year for you to connect with city leaders, regional stakeholders, legislators, and more—get involved to shape the future of your local economy. Additionally, voice your concerns and opinions so your chamber knows best how to advocate for you and your industry. 6. Leverage Learning Opportunities From business planning to digital marketing to hiring best practices, we often host workshops and panel discussions to keep you abreast of trends and best practices. Use them. These sessions can save you hours of research—and sometimes thousands of dollars. Plus, you know the products, services, and companies presented in these learning ops are vetted and (usually) chamber members. 7. Connect with Other Members Chambers are a goldmine of potential partnerships. Need a CPA? Looking for a nonprofit to support? Want a trusted supplier? Look to your fellow members first. When you do business with others in the chamber, you contribute to a stronger, more connected local economy. These new partners may also send business your way. 8. Tell Your Story People want to do business with people they know, like, and trust. Share your milestones, success stories, or community impact with the chamber staff. We are happy to highlight member achievements in newsletters or on social media—it’s great exposure and helps build your reputation. 9. Get Your Team Involved Your membership isn’t just for you—it’s for your whole team. Encourage staff to attend networking events, professional development events and leadership programs, or industry roundtables. It can boost morale, expand your reach, and help with talent retention. 10. Ask Questions and Offer Ideas Finally, know chambers are member-driven organizations. If you’re unsure how to plug in or have an idea for a new program or service, speak up. Chamber staff are eager to help and love hearing member feedback. Your input could lead to new initiatives that benefit the whole community. Your Chamber is a Partner, Not Just a Provider Chamber membership benefits your business even if you don’t partake in all its offerings, but you’ll get a lot more if you’re an active member. Whether you’re a solopreneur, a nonprofit director, or the CEO of a growing company, your chamber is there to support your success. Get involved, build relationships, and use the tools available. You’ll not only grow your business—you’ll strengthen your community in the process.

Social media is filled with perfect lives—you don’t see the dirty dishes in the sink, or the tears shed. You see the wins and the brags. The same is true of many social media accounts for business. As business owners we want to show our best selves. Anything less is weak and unappealing. Or is it? Lately, something interesting is happening. The most effective posts aren’t the polished ones with perfect lighting or studio-level graphics. They’re the real, raw, behind-the-scenes moments that tell the true story of what it’s like to run a small business. From TikToks to Instagram Reels, business owners are discovering that authenticity—sharing the ups, the downs, and everything in between—helps them connect with customers in a meaningful way. You can adopt this new highly effective approach as well. Customers Crave Connection People aren’t just buying products anymore—they’re buying stories, values, and the people behind the brand. Today’s consumers want to know who they’re supporting. They want to see the human side of business, not just the highlight reel. That’s why honest storytelling is gaining so much traction. A short video about the time you overcame a setback, or a post about your “why” as a business owner, can do more than an ad ever could. It builds trust, invites engagement, and shows the passion behind the product. We’ve also seen a lot of these types of videos where businesses share how they’re bouncing back from hurricanes, brush fires, and floods. The rebuilds are inspiring and help keep customers in the know. Why Authenticity Works There are real benefits to showing up as your authentic self online: · It builds loyalty . When customers feel like they know you, they’re more likely to support you—especially during tough times. · It boosts engagement . Real stories spark conversation. They get shared, commented on, and remembered. · It sets you apart . Big brands can’t replicate your personal journey. That’s your advantage. · It creates emotional connection . And connection drives action, whether that’s a sale, a visit, or a referral. What Kinds of Stories Should You Share? You don’t need to be a professional storyteller or social media guru to do this well. In fact, the more natural and honest you are, the better. Just sound like you. Your best friend should read the post and remark, “That sounds like you.” Be vulnerable in a business savvy way. Here are a few ideas to get you started: · The moment you decided to start your business · A major obstacle you overcame and what you learned · A behind-the-scenes look at your day (the chaos and the wins) · A thank-you to your customers or team · A mistake you made—and how you bounced back · A natural disaster or other problem that required you to rebuild, restructure, or approach something in a different way One important note: vulnerability doesn’t mean oversharing. Keep your stories focused on what will resonate with your audience. Aim to inspire, relate, or educate, rather than just vent. Need Help Getting Started to Tell Your Story? Storytelling may sound simple but showing up on camera or figuring out what to say can be a hurdle. That’s where your Chamber of Commerce can help. Many chambers offer marketing lunch and learns, social media tips, or networking events where you can learn what’s working for other local businesses. Looking for guidance, tools, or even a platform to share your story more widely? Don’t hesitate to reach out to your chamber team. They’re here to support your growth—and amplify your voice in the community. Show the Journey—Not Just the Destination One of your most powerful marketing differentiation tools is already in your hands: your story. By showing the real human behind the business, you’re not just building a brand—you’re building a community of supporters who believe in what you do. So, the next time you go to post, remember: perfection isn’t the goal. Connection is. And often, all it takes is hitting “record” and speaking from the heart.

There’s a Jeep commercial circulating right now that stars Harrison Ford talking about choices and how life doesn’t come with an owner’s manual. It’s one of those ads you watch the entire way through because it’s evocative and makes you feel something. You hardly even notice that they’re selling a vehicle, but you buy into the lifestyle presented, which is Jeep’s goal. Winning customers isn’t just about having a great product or service—it’s about making people feel something. The best brands don’t just sell; they connect, entertain, and even challenge their audiences. If you want to turn heads and build a loyal customer base, you don’t need to have Jeep’s ad spend. You can use these five powerful marketing techniques in your email, video, and social media campaigns. 1. Surprise Them with the Unexpected Have you ever seen a video of a ferocious gorilla cradling a stuffed animal? You notice it because it breaks the norm. It’s unexpected. Shocking or provocative marketing makes people stop scrolling and start talking. Use bold visuals, unexpected comparisons, or tackle an issue in a way no one else has. The key is to be tastefully disruptive—shocking for the right reasons, not just for controversy’s sake. Example: A coffee shop launches an ad/marketing campaign with the slogan, “Sleep is overrated.” The ad features people snoozing in unexpected places—like a boardroom or a wedding—only to wake up rejuvenated with a cup of their signature brew. It’s humorous, eye-catching, and reinforces the product’s value. 2. Align with What Matters to Customers More than ever, consumers—especially younger ones (hello, Gen Z)—want to support brands that align with their values. Whether it’s sustainability, diversity, or social justice, people are willing to pay more for companies that stand for something. Example: A fashion brand emphasizes its commitment to ethical manufacturing by showcasing the artisans who make their products, rather than just the clothes. The campaign highlights fair wages, sustainable materials, and real stories, making customers feel good about their purchases. Another example is a restaurant in Florida that printed on the first page of its menu that it pays the staff a living hourly wage with medical benefits as a reason for slightly higher dine-in prices. 3. Make Them Laugh Laughter is appreciated by most people and humor makes brands more relatable and memorable. If you can cause someone to chuckle (with you, not at you), they’re more likely to remember your business—and even share your content. Example: A bakery promotes its products with a campaign called “The Breakup Box”— designed for heartbreak recovery, featuring goodies decorated with phrases like “You were too good for them anyway.” It’s witty, shareable, and turns an everyday purchase into an experience. 4. Show What’s at Stake Fear-based marketing isn’t about scaring customers—it’s about showing them what they might lose if they don’t act. It works well for industries like insurance, cybersecurity, and health because it highlights risks people may not think about. Example: A cybersecurity company runs an ad featuring a business owner frantically calling IT after losing all their customer data to hackers. The tagline? “Hope is not a security plan.” It’s direct, powerful, and makes people think twice about their own vulnerabilities. 5. Tap into Nostalgia People love reminiscing about the past. Nostalgia creates an emotional connection, making your brand feel warm, familiar, and trustworthy. Whether it’s referencing pop culture, childhood experiences, or past trends, nostalgia-based marketing can be a powerful tool. Example: A toy store releases a campaign featuring classic ‘90s toys with the tagline “Some things never go out of style.” Parents who grew up in that era are instantly drawn in, eager to share a piece of their childhood with their own kids. Hollywood knows this power better than anyone. They came out with a movie based on that creepy cymbal-banging, drum playing monkey toy from the late ‘60s-‘70s. If you were a child then (or watched the movie Poltergeist), you know what I mean. Nostalgia is not always heartwarming, but it does make you feel something. The Winning Formula: Mix and Match The best marketing campaigns often blend these techniques. A campaign can be funny and nostalgic, or shocking and value-driven. The key is to know your audience and choose the right emotional trigger that will make them stop, think, and, most importantly, take action. (You’re still thinking about that monkey, aren’t you? That’s marketing power.)

Spring is a season of rejuvenation, growth, and vibrant energy. After winter, most people are thrilled to be outdoors and thinking about warmer weather. It’s a time for us all to come out of sleepy hibernation and explore our areas. Spring is also the perfect time for you to connect with your customers, boost employee morale, and inject fresh life into your operations. Here are a few fun ideas to celebrate the spirit of spring: Embrace the Sensory Delights of Spring One of the first things people notice in spring is the change of the smells in the air. It’s easy to create an inviting space by keeping this in mind. But smells aren’t the only captivating part of this joyful season. You might build on this by: Bringing the Outdoors In: Fill your workspace with the sights and scents of spring. Use fresh flowers, potted plants, or even nature-inspired artwork to create a refreshing atmosphere. Using Seasonal Scents: Use diffusers with light, floral, or citrusy essential oils to create an uplifting ambiance. Playing Spring-Inspired Music: Create a playlist of light, upbeat music. Cultivate Growth and Renewal Spring is an ideal time to start fresh. You might do this by decluttering, organizing, and/or refreshing your physical and digital spaces. Update your website, streamline your processes, and clear out any outdated materials. Get your employees (or clients) excited about what’s to come by offering workshops, training sessions, or team-building activities that encourage growth and learning. Additionally, we’re now almost through with Q1. It’s time to reassess your business goals and set new targets for the coming months. Connect with Your Community Winter is often seen as a season of hunkering down and hibernation. Spring, on the other hand, is a time for gathering. You can play this up in your business by: Hosting a Spring Open House: Invite customers to explore your business, enjoy refreshments, and learn about your latest offerings. Partnering with Others: Collaborate with other businesses or community groups to host a spring-themed event, fundraiser, or deals. Support Local Farmers and Artisans: Feature seasonal products from local vendors, showcasing the best of your community. Introduce Something New Spring is about rebirth and freshness. You might offer discounts, special packages, or limited-time products and services that reflect the season. If weather allows, you could host outdoor events or activities, such as a sidewalk sale, a pop-up shop, or a picnic for your team. Help customers break out of their “winter shell” by creating interactive displays that encourage customer engagement, such as a spring inspiration board, a photo booth with seasonal props, or the ability to “try before you buy.” You could also offer light, healthy snacks and beverages, such as fruit-infused water, salads, or smoothies. You needn’t be a food business to try this. For instance, a boutique might make cucumber water available to guests. Marketing Strategies for Spring Success If you want to bring new life to your business, keep in mind that spring is the perfect time to: Emphasize the themes of renewal, growth, and positive energy in your marketing and messaging. Use social media, email marketing, and in-store interactions to connect with your customers and share the spirit of spring—fun, festive, and bright! Foster a sense of optimism and enthusiasm among your team members and your customers. By embracing the growth and joyful themes of spring, you can create a vibrant and engaging experience for your customers and employees alike. Capitalize on the positive energy of the season and you’re sure to grow throughout the year.

Women's History Month is a fantastic opportunity for you to recognize the invaluable contributions of women, past and present. It's not just about historical figures; it's about celebrating the women who drive your business, your community, and the world forward. And let’s face it, it’s a great reminder to put some good cheer into the world. After all, people love feel-good narratives. While it may be difficult to implement these ideas before the end of the month, you can always use them to plan for next year or make an announcement this month to unveil a larger plan rollout for another time. Here are some creative ways to celebrate, internally and externally, at your business: Internal Employee Celebrations: Fostering Appreciation and Growth Like Mother’s Day, you don’t have to be a woman to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of women. Make it enjoyable and welcoming for all. Here are a few ways to encourage support for, and interest in, Women’s History Month: Create a Women Who Inspire Spotlight Dedicate a segment of your internal newsletter or intranet to spotlighting female employees, customers, or figures who inspire your team. Share their stories, achievements, and insights. But that’s just the beginning. Get your crew involved too. Create a "wall of inspiration" in your breakroom or office (or even your front lobby or register stand), where employees can post pictures and stories of women who inspire them. Host Skill-Sharing Workshops or Lunch & Learns Invite female employees to lead workshops on their areas of expertise. This empowers them and provides valuable learning opportunities for the team. For instance, your marketing maven could give a workshop on personal branding. Organize a lunch & learn session featuring a female speaker from your industry or community. This could be a mentor, a successful entrepreneur, or an expert in a relevant field. Not only is this inspiring but could lead employees to see their career path in a new way. Launch a Mentorship Program Launch or promote existing mentorship programs that connect female employees with experienced mentors, either within or outside the company. Create a networking event specifically for the women in your company. If you have a smaller business where that is difficult to do, work with local groups like your chamber to create opportunities for networking, mentorships, and leadership development. Create a Parent-friendly Job Program One of the hardest parts of keeping women in the workforce is childcare. While your business may not have the budget to offer employees childcare or a subsidy to offset the cost, you may be able to offer alternative shifts that make parenting and work possible. For instance, you could offer a 9-3 shift to accommodate parents who have to pick up children from school or you could arrange job shares that would allow two part-time employees to share one full-time position. This would ensure the needs of the parents and the business are both met. External Celebrations: Engaging Your Community and Customers Women’s History Month has become increasingly popular over the past few years. Many businesses are hosting events and other celebrations. Here are a few ideas of how you can do the same: Host a Female Author or Speaker Partner with a local bookstore or library to host a book signing or speaking event featuring a female author or thought leader. If you don’t have time to host a speaker this year, try interviewing one for your newsletter on a topic of interest to your ideal audience. Support Women-Owned Businesses Feature products or services from women-owned businesses in your store or on your website. Offer a special discount or promotion for customers who support women-owned businesses. Call attention to the women-owned businesses you work with, such as vendors and suppliers, or highlight the stories of some of your employees. Community Partnership Partner with a local women's shelter, non-profit organization, or educational institution to host a fundraising event or volunteer activity. Long-term idea: sponsor a scholarship or award for female students or entrepreneurs. Educational Content Create blog posts, articles, or videos highlighting the achievements of women in your industry or community. Share educational resources and information about women's history and current issues on your website and social media channels. Social Media Campaigns Use relevant hashtags like #WomensHistoryMonth, #WomenInBusiness, and #CelebrateWomen to share stories, quotes, and images of inspiring women. Run a social media contest or giveaway that celebrates women's achievements. Feature your female staff members and their roles within the company. Ask them to tell stories of the women who inspire them. Customer Appreciation Highlight female customers and their achievements through social media posts or blog posts. (with customer permission, of course). Make It Part of a Larger Conversation Women’s History Month is a way to instill appreciation for the struggles of women and their contributions to the many areas of our society—personally and professionally. But the historical tribute can also be the beginning of a larger conversation. Is equality something you want to make part of your employee culture? Do you want customers to understand that you have programs in place that help women receive equal pay to their male counterparts? How does this celebration of women tie into your culture of who you are or who you want to be? By celebrating Women's History Month in meaningful and creative ways, you can demonstrate your commitment to gender equality, foster a positive and inclusive work environment, and strengthen your connection with your community and customers. This month isn’t just about clever marketing. It could be the beginning of a much larger conversation about workforce dynamics and culture in your company and beyond.

Growth isn't a passive process; it doesn’t just happen. Unfortunately, you don’t open a business and sit back and wait for it to grow. Businesses rarely go viral overnight and planning on doing so is like funding your retirement by playing the lottery every week. Business growth is a dynamic journey fueled by strategic thinking and insightful questions that help you see things in new ways. As a business owner, you're constantly navigating challenges and opportunities, not to mention the competition. But are you asking the right questions to propel your business to the next level? Simply working hard isn't enough. We need to work smarter, and that starts with asking the questions that reveal hidden potential and drive meaningful change to attain growth. Internal Questions for Operational Excellence Every successful business rests on a solid foundation. Let's start by looking inward. Are your internal operations optimized for growth? Consider these questions: Are our current workflows efficient, or are there bottlenecks? Take a critical look at your processes. Are there redundant steps or outdated systems that could be streamlined? Are we maximizing our existing resources? This includes your team, technology, and financial assets. Are you leveraging them to their full potential? A lot has changed over the past few years. It may be time to audition new tech and assess the skills gap that may exist in your business. Is our team engaged and aligned with our goals? A motivated team is a powerful engine for growth. Are you providing them with the support and resources they need to succeed? Are they fulfilled in their position? A disengaged employee can do a lot of damage to a business and its service reputation. Actionable Step: Conduct a brief internal audit. Map out your key processes and identify areas for improvement. Schedule a team meeting to gather feedback and brainstorm solutions. External Questions for Market Understanding Understanding your market is crucial for sustained growth. Sometimes markets change or new ones open up. Ask yourself: Who is our ideal customer, and what are their evolving needs? Customer preferences change. Are you staying ahead of the curve? For instance, if you were a business that served authors, with the recent growth in AI, how did that impact them and what they need from you? If you haven’t answered that question in five years, you’re likely behind your competition. Speaking of… What are our competitors doing, and how can we differentiate ourselves? Analyze your competition to identify opportunities to stand out. Again, give them a fresh look. They may be doing new things you weren’t aware of. Additionally, sometimes your competition is not doing anything. If your ideal customer isn’t choosing you, are they choosing your competition or doing nothing? Why? How can we enhance our customer experience to build loyalty and drive referrals? Exceptional customer service is a powerful differentiator. Don’t assume your service is excellent just because you don’t hear complaints. If they’re not talking about you, you’re average. Actionable Step: Conduct a customer survey or analyze your customer feedback data. Research your competitors' online presence and marketing strategies. Strategic Questions for Future Growth Looking ahead is essential for long-term success. Consider these strategic questions: What are our long-term goals, and how can we achieve them? Develop a clear roadmap for the future. What new opportunities can we explore to expand our market reach? Consider new products, services, or markets. How can we innovate and adapt to changing market conditions? Agility is key to staying competitive. Actionable Step: Schedule a strategic planning session with your team. Brainstorm new ideas and develop a plan to implement them. The Power of "Why?" No, this time we’re not talking about YOUR why. Instead, channel your inner four-year-old and don't be content to stop at the surface. Dig deeper by asking "Why?" multiple times. This technique can help you uncover the root cause of problems and identify hidden opportunities. For example, instead of just asking "Why are sales down?" look at the larger picture and ask "Why are sales down? Why are customer leads down? Why is our marketing not generating enough leads?" Use the word “why” and “and” with each question you answer. Your learning and understanding will improve. Your Chamber is Your Partner in Growth Asking the right questions is just the beginning. Your chamber of commerce is here to support you on your growth journey. The chamber offers a range of resources to help you grow including: Networking events to connect with other business leaders Educational workshops and seminars to enhance your skills Access to valuable market data and industry insights Business counseling and mentorship Growth is a continuous process of learning, adapting, and innovating. By asking the right questions and leveraging the resources available to you, you can unlock your business's full potential. Then reach out to your chamber of commerce to explore how it can help you take your business to the next level.

For many small businesses, email marketing is all about promotions and sales. But the most successful businesses know that an email list is more than just a sales tool—it’s a way to build relationships, create trust, and foster a sense of community without the concerns of a platform shutdown. By shifting your focus from transactions to connections, you can turn one-time customers into long-term brand advocates. Why Community Matters in Email Marketing When people feel connected to your business, they’re more likely to stay engaged, refer others, and become repeat customers. A strong email strategy builds that connection by making subscribers feel valued and involved, rather than just being on the receiving end of sales pitches. They want to get to know you and get something in return. For a successful digital marketing relationship to be built, you must give both. Here’s how you can use email to cultivate a loyal following: 1. Share Valuable, Relevant Content Instead of only sending promotions, consider what information your audience would appreciate. Valuable content means “valuable” from their perspective, not yours. For instance: · A retail store might send seasonal styling tips or product care guides. · A restaurant could share behind-the-scenes stories, recipes, or pairing ideas. · A professional service provider (like an accountant or consultant) might send bite-sized industry insights, checklists, or tips for success. 2. Create Exclusive Perks for Subscribers Give people a reason to stay subscribed by offering benefits they can’t get elsewhere. These could include: · Early access to sales or new products · Special “insider” updates about your business · Exclusive events such as subscriber-only Q&A sessions or webinars For example, a local fitness studio could send subscribers a free at-home workout video each month, while a bookstore could offer early-bird sign-ups for popular author events. 3. Make Emails Interactive We’ve all read (or trashed) boring salesy emails. They aren’t something we want to see in our inbox each week. Bad emails are a quick ride to Unsubscribeville. Instead, encourage two-way communication so your emails feel like a conversation, not a broadcast. Keep in mind who you’re writing to and personalize your conversation to them by: · Asking for feedback through quick surveys or polls. A salon or spa, for instance, could ask customers to vote on a new service they’d love to see offered. · Inviting replies with personal questions like, “What’s your biggest challenge?” · Running a contest or giveaway where participation requires a simple reply. · Telling them you really want to hear from them, and you read every email. 4. Spotlight Your Customers & Community People love seeing themselves recognized. Feature customer success stories, testimonials, or user-generated content about your product or service like a follower’s post from social media. Other examples include: · A real estate agent might highlight a happy homeowner’s journey. · A local café could showcase customer-submitted coffee art photos. · A business consultant might feature a small business success story from their client list. This approach makes customers feel valued and shows prospects that your business is trusted by others. Plus, in some cases, your customers will want to be showcased as well. So, they might share or post in the hopes you will highlight them in the future. It can be a great way to drive desired action. 5. Inject Personality & Authenticity Your emails should reflect the human side of your business as well as your personality. Don’t be afraid to share a story from your weekend—particularly if it’s entertaining or educational. Always write in a conversational, relatable tone leaving a lot of white space. You can also: · Share personal insights or lessons learned. · Give behind-the-scenes looks at your operations. For instance, a boutique owner could share why they chose to stock a particular product, or a contractor could showcase a day-in-the-life video of their latest project. The Long-Term Payoff of Email Marketing When you use email to build relationships rather than just push sales, you create a community that trusts and supports your business. Plus, recipients are more apt to open your emails if they find value in them. This leads to higher engagement, stronger brand loyalty, and ultimately, more sustainable growth. By making your emails feel more like a conversation and less like a commercial, you’ll not only keep subscribers interested—you’ll turn them into lifelong customers and advocates for your business. And that sounds pretty good, doesn’t it?