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The Chamber Weekly Blog
A collection of articles that we believe will add value to you and your business!Christina Metcalf and Edited by Julie CarrollMonday, April 21, 2025Some 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. Read moreChristina Metcalf and Edited by Julie CarrollThursday, April 17, 2025Elevator pitches often feel like cheesy infomercials—robotic and self-centered. But for business owners and sales pros, every moment counts. A great pitch isn’t about listing what you do; it’s about sparking a real connection that can lead to leads or partnerships. Forget stiff scripts. Make it about them—your audience. Ignite curiosity, not a sales pitch. Key takeaway: Your pitch should start a conversation, not end one. Here’s how to use psychology, storytelling, and listening to turn brief encounters into lasting opportunities. Read moreChristina Metcalf and Edited by Julie CarrollWednesday, April 2, 2025Small businesses are finding success on social media by ditching perfection for raw, real stories. Authentic posts—like behind-the-scenes struggles or recovery from setbacks—build trust, loyalty, and engagement with customers who crave connection over polish. Share your journey naturally (e.g., business origins or lessons learned) to stand out and inspire. Chambers of Commerce can help you get started. It’s about showing the human side, not just the wins. Read moreChristina Metcalf and Edited by Julie CarrollFriday, March 28, 2025A Jeep commercial featuring Harrison Ford has been making waves—not because it showcases a vehicle’s features, but because it taps into something deeper. With Ford musing about life’s choices and the lack of an owner’s manual, the ad pulls you in, stirs your emotions, and subtly sells a lifestyle. You barely notice it’s a sales pitch, and that’s the point. The best marketing doesn’t just promote a product; it connects with people, entertains them, and even challenges their perspectives. Winning customers today means making them feel something—and you don’t need a Hollywood budget to do it. Here are five powerful techniques to turn heads and build loyalty through your email, video, and social media campaigns. Read moreChristina Metcalf and Edited by Julie CarrollFriday, March 21, 2025Spring 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: Read moreChristina Metcalf and Edited by Julie CarrollFriday, March 14, 2025Women'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: Read moreChristina Metcalf and Edited by Julie CarrollThursday, March 6, 2025Growth isn’t passive—it’s a dynamic process that doesn’t happen by chance. Building a successful business takes more than hard work; it requires strategic thinking and the right questions to unlock new perspectives. Unlike viral overnight success or lottery wins, sustainable growth demands insight, adaptability, and a proactive approach to challenges and opportunities. Are you asking the questions that will elevate your business? Working smarter, not just harder, is the key to uncovering hidden potential and driving meaningful change. Read moreChristina Metcalf and Edited by Julie CarrollFriday, February 28, 2025For 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. Read moreChristina Metcalf and Edited by Julie CarrollFriday, February 21, 2025Ever planned a brilliant idea to death—or leapt into action without a roadmap? Many professionals wrestle with finding the sweet spot between over-planning and reckless action. In her article, Christina Metcalf offers a practical guide to turn ideas into results, blending purpose-driven planning with steady, adaptable execution for lasting success. Read moreChristina Metcalf and Edited by Julie CarrollThursday, February 13, 2025What do Han Solo (Star Wars et al), Walter White (Breaking Bad), and Katniss Everdeen (The Hunger Games) have in common? They’re terribly flawed and we love them for it. Imperfection can also be a powerful asset for businesses when approached with the right mindset. So stop trying your best to be perfect and embrace imperfection as a way to connect with your customers. Here’s how: Read more