Inflation – where are we?
Each month, the US Chamber's top economists offer a deeper dive into the state of the U.S. economy. As we consider what these subject matter experts share, we hope that you, the members of The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce, will have the best, most accurate data that we can get our hands on at your own fingertips, and that armed with this data, you may offer us critical feedback about the state of your own organizations (so that we may advocate on your behalf) and the trends you see here. Are you experiencing the same trends as the U.S. Chamber is citing?
Of special note this month, the U.S. Chamber is reporting data that we already knew anecdotally, that in 2022, the national average in electricity rates increased to unprecedented highs in 2022. To take advantage of the Chamber's partnership with our energy broker partners at World Kinect Energy, who will help you shop for the best rates on commercial energy because you're members of the Chamber, connect with Loren Martello today or visit here.
Source: US Chamber of Commerce
Map Reveals Unprecedented Increases in Electricity Rates Nationwide Last Year
Why it matters: The map shows that there are stark differences from state to state. While the energy mix available within a state will play a large role in state electricity prices, energy-limiting policies in some states lead to elevated prices, making the price of electricity much higher for consumers and businesses. To counter these rising rates, it’s crucial that we leverage and develop our electricity generation resources here at home – whether they are traditional resources like natural gas, nuclear, or hydro, or the rapidly-emerging sources of wind and solar coupled with storage.
Fill me in: Aside from Alaska and Hawaii, which struggle with limited generation options and geographic isolation from diversified energy grids, California, New England, and New York comprise the entirety of the top ten highest-priced states.
Where does your state rank? Click the map below to see where your state ranks, and compare it to the national average of 12.49 cents per kilowatt hour.
March Retail Sales Fall
Retail sales fell 1% in March. That comes off a 0.2% drop in February, but it was after an incredible 3.1% gain in January.
Why it matters: Retail sales are still above where they were at the end of 2022 because of the huge surge in spending in January. So back-to-back months of decline are not overly concerning. Consumers are still spending and still exhibiting remarkable resilience.
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Inflation Cooled in March. It's Still Too High
The Consumer Price Index, the broadest measure of consumer prices, increased 5% from a year earlier, down from 6% in February and a 40-year high of 9.1% last June.
Why it matters: The overall fall of the topline inflation number will get attention. It is a positive step but stripping out volatile components like food and energy shows “core prices” are still rising rapidly (5.5% annually).
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Strong Job Creation in March
The March jobs report was another strong data point for job creation and labor force participation.
Why it matters: Despite the worries about a slowing economy leading to rising unemployment, the labor market keeps chugging at an impressive rate that defies conventional wisdom.
To see details by the numbers and the bottom line for the economy click here.
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The U.S. Chamber of Commerce aims to bring you inspiration from leading respected experts. However, before making any business decision, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your individual situation.
Member News – April 26, 2023
Kaiser Permanente and Geisinger come together to launch Risant Health and expand access to value-based care
Danville, PA - In an innovative move designed to improve the health of communities, achieve better health care outcomes, and improve health care affordability, Kaiser Foundation Hospitals and Geisinger Health are announcing the launch of Risant Health and a definitive agreement to make Geisinger the first health system to join Risant Health to expand access to value-based care in more communities across the country. Upon regulatory approval, Geisinger becomes part of the new organization through acquisition. Read the full announcement.
WrkInside Out, LLC Earns Specialist Designation
Jess Fester, owner of WrkInside Out, LLC, has been recognized by the International Sports Sciences Association as a Specialist in Exercise Therapy. Congratulations Jess!
Renaissance Jamboree Returns to Downtown Bloomsburg Saturday!
Don't miss this huge community event! Learn more at www.downtownbloomsburg.org.
MC FEDERAL CREDIT UNION OPENS SCHOLARSHIP CONTEST REGISTRATION
The MC Federal Credit Union Scholarship Program was established to provide educational funds for members. It is to be awarded to a current high school senior or continuing higher education student. Click here to learn how to enter.
WHAT'S SO COOL ABOUT MANUFACTURING? CELEBRATES WINNERS
The Innovative Manufacturers' Center (IMC), Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit, BLaST Intermediate Unit, Advance Central PA and The Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce are proud to announce the award recipients for the "What's So Cool About Manufacturing?" (WSCM) Central Susquehanna student video contest awards. The ceremony was held April 19th at the Pine Barn Inn in Danville, PA. Get the full list of winners here.
OSHA - National Beat the Heat Contest
OSHA is sponsoring a “Beat the Heat Contest” to raise awareness about the hazards of heat exposure in indoor and outdoor workplaces and identify how businesses across the nation control these hazards. Participants are asked to submit an awareness tool (e.g., infographic, poster, training curriculum, webpage, logo etc.,) to increase heat hazard recognition among employers and workers.
To enter the contest and get more details go here. The contest is open now through June 9, 2023.
FORTUNE names Geisinger to list of ‘America’s Most Innovative Companies’
The 300 organizations included in the list were selected based on three dimensions of innovation—product innovation, process innovation and innovation culture—and were evaluated using online surveys and interviews with experts in the field. The list includes companies in healthcare, tech, finance, communications and more. Learn more.
THE EXCHANGE IS "GOING GREEN"
Now through May 5th, The Exchange will be featuring artwork featuring the color and/or the concept of “green”. All artists of all ages and levels of experience were encouraged to submit work, and all media accepted, 2D and 3D, with only one rule: The art must fit through the front door. More details are here.
Hand in Hand - I AM Safe meetings
I AM Safe! provides support and encouragement for individuals looking to live their best life, promoting self-advocacy and safety. Safety in the home and the community, digital citizenship, and safety within ourselves. Learn more about I AM Safe at handinhandpa.org/programs/i-am-safe
Bloomsburg Library's Lego Night Returns!
First Tuesday of the month; 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm, free and open to ALL ages. bloomsburgpl.org/events-calendar/
Zartman Construction Celebrating 50 Years of Construction Excellence
Zartman Construction invites you to join in celebrating their 50-year milestone with an Open House on May 3rd from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Please tour our facility and meet with our staff while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. Learn more about the history of Zartman Construction here.
EITC- Free Seminar
Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program Thursday, April 27, 9:00 - 10:00 am. Join Zoom Meeting https://lnkd.in/ef4VribM Meeting ID: 890 6545 7004 Passcode: 806240
McKonly & Asbury Webinar and Seminar:
- SOC versus SOX
- Join Elaine Nissley and Lynnanne Bocchio to better understand the differences between Service Organization Controls Reports (SOC) and Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 SEC requirements. The webinar is on April 27th at 2:00 pm. Register to attend.
- Business Transition Planning - What is Your Plan?
- Join McKonly & Asbury for this free seminar at Bloomsburg University's Monty's Hall, 400 East Second Street, Bloomsburg. Time: 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM, May 2, 2023. The presentation will discuss the impacts of transitioning a business. Register to attend.
2023 Covered Bridge Photo Contest Returns! - Experience Columbia -Montour Counties
Each year, the Visitors Bureau holds a photo contest to produce a 550-piece puzzle featuring one of the area-covered bridges. The 2023 Covered Bridge Photo Contest runs from Saturday, April 1st through Wednesday, May 31st at midnight EST. We’re excited to see another fantastic set of entries from everyone! Click HERE to learn how to enter!
PATHS Training May Webinars
The Bureau of Workers' Compensation, Health & Safety, will be offering numerous FREE safety webinars in May 2023. To access the PATHS Training Calendar visit www.dli.pa.gov/paths
First Commonwealth Bank Offering Virtual Seminar
Do you have customers that have questions about Buying a New Home? First Commonwealth Bank is offering a virtual seminar Thursday, May 18, 2023, 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Hosted by Jeff Woodward, FCB Senior Mortgage Loan Originator Feel free to join or alert your clients. To RSVP, please visit here: Home Buyer Seminars | First Commonwealth Bank (fcbanking.com)
Welcome New Member – The Berwick Theater and Center for Community Arts
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is delighted to welcome The Berwick Theater and Center for the Community Arts to the Chamber. The Berwick Theater and Center for Community Arts is a non-profit organization providing affordable entertainment to Berwick and the surrounding areas. They show first and second run movies in our single screen theater where all of our showings are only $6 per ticket for all ages.
The BTCCA hosts various events such as our Big Screen Bingo, the Game On video game competition, Rocky Horror Picture Show with shadow cast, and others. They have a goal of hosting various live shows including bands, plays, comedians, and others.
The actual structure of the Berwick Theater was originally built and maintained by the Patriotic Order Sons of America for the intended use of an opera house.
Learn more about The Berwick Theater and Center for Community Arts here.
Chamber Expresses Concern Over Danville’s LERTA Amendment
At their most recent meeting, the Danville Borough Council amended its Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance (LERTA) ordinance to omit Mill Street and other areas from eligibility for the program.
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce, which represents local employers in supporting vibrant, sustainable communities in Columbia and Montour Counties, is expressing concern at this decision and its potential impact on future economic development.
“At the heart of vibrant economies are thriving downtowns,” said Chris Berleth, Columbia Montour Chamber President. “In an economy that still struggles to get going post-COVID, we’ve got to do everything we can, and pull out all of the stops to promote a business-friendly environment and to support small business owners who want to invest in the properties that make our communities a great place to gather, shop, and live. Amending the LERTA to remove program eligibility from Mill Street and the Central Business District disincentivizes investment at best, and at worst, makes it more difficult.”
According to the Guidelines for the Administration of the LERTA, “A major deterrent to improving deteriorating business property has been that improvements result in higher property value and therefore, result in higher local property taxes. The higher taxes often discourage business property owners from making improvement in blighted areas. LERTA was designed to allow municipalities to overcome the problem.”
Rebecca Dressler, Executive Director of the Danville Business Alliance, was quoted at the Borough Council meeting as having said, “In order to encourage downtown property owners to utilize the upper floors in our downtown commercial buildings for residential use, the Central Business District (which included Mill Street) should be included in the LERTA ordinance.” (Gibbons, Geri. “Danville council excludes areas from tax relief.” Press Enterprise, 19 April, 2023. p. 8)
The Columbia Montour Chamber joins the Danville Business Alliance in support of this opinion and welcomes the opportunity to engage community leaders in further discussion on policy that will promote an increasingly business-friendly environment.
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Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce Supports PA Chamber of Business & Industry plan for Permitting Reform
On April 18 the Board Directors of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce approved local support for the PA Chamber of Business & Industry's permitting reform initiative. The initiative, which is quickly growing bi-partisan support, includes a focus on third-party review of permits, codifying the Governor's one-stop shop into statute to provide long-term durability, streamlined permit appeals, limiting awarding of legal fees only in cases of bad faith, and recommending a set timeframe for permits to be reviewed and issued. Complete details of the permitting reform can be found here. The PA Chamber of Business and Industry effort is part of a larger bi-partisan effort by the US Chamber of Commerce with their call to bring :
· Predictability – Project developers and financers must have an appropriate level of certainty regarding the scope and timeline for project reviews, including any related judicial review.
· Efficiency – Interagency coordination must be improved to optimize public and private resources while driving better environmental and community outcomes.
· Transparency – Project sponsors and the public must have visibility into the project permitting milestones and schedule through an easily accessible public means.
· Stakeholder Input – All relevant stakeholders must be adequately informed and have the opportunity to provide input within a reasonable and consistent timeframe.
A full list of nationwide support as well as the complete letter of support can be found here.
The CMCC Board of Directors' vote to support the PA Chamber's initiative was met with unanimous approval.
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Founded in 1916, the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is the state's largest broad-based business association, with its membership comprising businesses of all sizes and across all industry sectors. The PA Chamber is The Statewide Voice of BusinessTM.
PA CHAMBER LAYS OUT MULTIPLE CONCERNS WITH FEE DISCLOSURE LEGISLATION
The House Consumer Protection Committee held an informational meeting last week on legislation that, if enacted as currently drafted, could create significant new challenges for businesses.
House Bill 636 would add any “advertising, displaying or offering a price for goods or services that does not include all mandatory fees or charges other than taxes imposed by a government entity” to the list of unfair methods of competition under the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law.
In a memo to committee members, the PA Chamber expressed numerous concerns that House Bill 636 is overly broad and would be challenging to implement and enforce. First, the language lacks guidelines or definitions necessary to comply – for example, what constitutes “mandatory fees,” or whether the fees in question are fixed fees or fees that vary depending on consumer choice. “For example, in some industries, consumers may be charged a service or delivery fee that varies based on the size of the order or how quickly they want it … in an advertised price would be extremely difficult as the total will vary and the company will not know the amount of any fees until a customer makes their decisions.”
The memo also expressed concerns over conflicting standards in H.B. 636 and regulatory traps, and notes that no other state had adopted similar standards to the ones being proposed in the bill. The standards could also come in conflict with the Federal Trade Commission’s regulatory fee structure, creating a compliance trap for businesses. The memo urges lawmakers to consider fee collection statutes that already exist to determine where potential conflicts.
The bill could also reduce pricing transparency and increase prices for all consumers. “In many cases, separating fees from the purchase price … provides greater transparency to consumers,” the memo stated. “Requiring all-in pricing would reduce this level of transparency and remove consumer choices.” The all-in pricing model also requires flat application of fees, making prices higher for consumers.
“This legislation would have far-reaching implications on commerce in Pennsylvania and we urge the committee to hold off consideration while the full scope of its impact, potential unintended consequences and additional stakeholder feedback are considered,” the PA Chamber concluded.
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is closely monitoring the proposed legislation and its potential impact on the local business community. Businesses are encouraged to offer feedback to Chamber President Chris Berleth, at cberleth@columbiamontourchamber.com.
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Founded in 1916, the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is the state's largest broad-based business association, with its membership comprising businesses of all sizes and across all industry sectors. The PA Chamber is The Statewide Voice of BusinessTM.
Benefits of Serving on a Nonprofit Board
Source: Janice Snyder, Mckonly & Asbury
Mission, mission, mission!
It really is all about the mission of the organization. You must have a passion for the mission, the great work the organization does, and the individuals it serves.
Improve the Community
I want to make the community a better place. This is important for me personally, for my family, and for McKonly & Asbury. It is so wonderful when you see how an organization makes an impact and changes lives. Serving on a nonprofit board allows me to help set the strategic direction, provide oversight, and fulfill a fiduciary responsibility so the organization can focus on their mission.
Share Common Interests
If you are an introvert like me, I am immediately surrounded by individuals who share in the mission and have a passion for advancing our community. There is no better place to be.
Be Inspired
The nonprofit boardrooms are filled with leaders and problem solvers. Both the staff and the board members are making changes and improving our world every day. It is inspiring!
Expand My Network
As I look around the boardroom and observe the individuals giving freely of their time, treasure, and talents, I am in awe! I am humbled by their commitment and accomplishments and their passion of moving the organization forward. It is a fantastic opportunity to have these community leaders become part of my network.
Grow Professionally
The opportunities and challenges I have faced on nonprofit boards have been the best experiences for professional growth and development. You quickly learn relationship management, governance, financial skills, marketing, volunteer management, professional speaking, organizational skills, prioritization, time management, and so much more…
Become a Role Model
It is a great example for my children in demonstrating ways to support our communities. I am not sure what your dinner conversations involve, but I love sharing ways that nonprofit organizations, their amazing staff, and their wonderful volunteers are making a difference and enhancing lives.
Upon reflection of my nonprofit board service, I was left with the question: How can I not serve on a nonprofit board? The benefits are immeasurable both personally and professionally. Whether your passion is empowering independence, inspiring lifelong learning, advancing the health and well-being of communities, or providing safe and affordable housing, these organizations are improving the communities in which we live and work. Find the mission that will inspire you!
If you are looking to be apart of a non-profit board, you can join the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce at the August Non-Profit mixer at the Meadows at Maria Joseph to learn more about the non-profits that serve Columbia and Montour counties.
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McKonly & Asbury has built a special reputation for service to the nonprofit sector of the economy. We are proud to serve the area’s most recognized organizations as they strive toward their mission of community support and development. You can learn more about our Nonprofit services by visiting our website.
Welcome New Member – Country Fresh Market & Hardware
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome Country Fresh Market & Hardware to the Chamber. Joining in March of 2023, they are a local Benton market including meat, bakery, and produce. Recently updated & remodeled to include a full-service hardware store. They are a family owned business, with 3 generations working daily at the store. They are proud to be local to the area and consider ourselves to be community minded.
Member News – April 19, 2023
Airiam offers Guidance on Data Back-up
Should I back up my Data? If, so what should I be backing up? Watch a video on "The Importance of Backups for Your Business" here.
Community Giving Foundation Nonprofit Leadership Series
The Nonprofit Leadership Series provides free professional development opportunities to area nonprofit leaders. The session will be offered on Wednesday, April 26th at the Montour County Admin Center in Danville. The deadline to register for the workshop is April 19th. Learn more at csgiving.org/nonprofit-leadership-series.
LPN Open House April 20
Join the CSIU at the 2023 Central Susquehanna LPN Career Center (CSLPNCC) Open House. Tour the new, state-of-the-art facility, meet the faculty, and see why the CSLPNCC is the premier school in the region for licensed practical nursing education. Staff will be available to answer questions about financial aid and walk you through the application process. See the flyer.
Bloomsburg YMCA & Children's Museum Partner on Event
On April 22, join the Bloomsburg YMCA and the Bloomsburg Children's Museum Mini Maker Faire for the annual Healthy Kids Day. Check out the flyer.
Community Health Needs Assessment
To gain a better understanding of health needs across the region, Geisinger, Allied Services, and Evangelical Community Hospital are again collaborating to conduct a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) of northeastern and central PA counties. Complete the survey by April 24th, here.
T-Ross Brothers Construction name to top Organizations for 2023
For the second year in a row, T-Ross Brothers Construction has been named one of Pennsylvania Business Central’s Top 100 Organizations for 2023! It is a great honor to be receiving this award. We are blessed to have an amazing team and support throughout Central PA. This year’s honorees were chosen from the many nominations sent in by business and community leaders.
COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY - BLOOMSBURG FACULTY SELECTED AS TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg faculty member Christina Force has been selected as the 2023 Teacher of the Year Award for Senior College/University Business Teachers by the National Business Education Association (NBEA). She received her award at the 2023 NBEA Annual Convention in Kansas City, Mo., on Thursday, April 6, 2023. Read more about Dr. Force.
THE EXCHANGE IS "GOING GREEN"
Now through May 5th, The Exchange will be featuring artwork featuring the color and/or the concept of “green”. All artists of all ages and levels of experience were encouraged to submit work, and all media accepted, 2D and 3D, with only one rule: The art must fit through the front door. More details are here.
Hand in Hand - I AM Safe meetings
I AM Safe! provides support and encouragement for individuals looking to live their best life, promoting self-advocacy and safety. Safety in the home and the community, digital citizenship, and safety within ourselves. Learn more about I AM Safe at handinhandpa.org/programs/i-am-safe
Bloomsburg Library's Lego Night Returns!
First Tuesday of the month; 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm, free and open to ALL ages. bloomsburgpl.org/events-calendar/
Zartman Construction Celebrating 50 Years of Construction Excellence
Zartman Construction invites you to join in celebrating their 50-year milestone with an Open House on May 3rd from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Please tour our facility and meet with our staff while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. Learn more about the history of Zartman Construction here.
STEINBACHER, GOODALL & YURCHAK PRESENTS AWARD
The 10th annual Dr. Alexander Nesbitt Commitment to Caring Award was presented to Fran Decker, a social worker and community volunteer. The presentation was made before Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak’s annual educational seminar held in conjunction with National Healthcare Decisions Day on hospice and end-of-life care, on Tuesday, April 11.
The Dr. Alexander Nesbitt Commitment to Caring Award was developed in 2014 and the award, inspired by Dr. Nesbitt, recognizes an individual(s) or nonprofit in the community who shows an extraordinary commitment to caring that improves the lives of others.
SEDA - Council of Governments welcomes new staffer
Michael Burger joins SEDA - Council of Governments as a Project Coordinator in the Community Development Program.
EITC- Free Seminar
Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program Thursday, April 27, 9:00 - 10:00 am. Join Zoom Meeting https://lnkd.in/ef4VribM Meeting ID: 890 6545 7004 Passcode: 806240
McKonly & Asbury Webinar and Seminar:
- SOC versus SOX
- Join Elaine Nissley and Lynnanne Bocchio to better understand the differences between Service Organization Controls Reports (SOC) and Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 SEC requirements. The webinar is on April 27th at 2:00 pm. Register to attend.
- Business Transition Planning - What is Your Plan?
- Join McKonly & Asbury for this free seminar at Bloomsburg University's Monty's Hall, 400 East Second Street, Bloomsburg. Time: 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM, May 2, 2023. The presentation will discuss the impacts of transitioning a business. Register to attend.
2023 Covered Bridge Photo Contest Returns! - Experience Columbia -Montour Counties
Each year, the Visitors Bureau holds a photo contest to produce a 550-piece puzzle featuring one of the area-covered bridges. The 2023 Covered Bridge Photo Contest runs from Saturday, April 1st through Wednesday, May 31st at midnight EST. We’re excited to see another fantastic set of entries from everyone! Click HERE to learn how to enter!
PATHS Training May Webinars
The Bureau of Workers' Compensation, Health & Safety, will be offering numerous FREE safety webinars in May 2023. To access the PATHS Training Calendar visit www.dli.pa.gov/paths
Town of Bloomsburg:
- Seeks Artists for Town Hall Murals
- The Town of Bloomsburg seeks artists interested in submitting sketches for potential murals on the low walls outside Town Hall facing East 2nd Street/College Hill. The Town does not at this time have any funds identified to pay the artist(s); however, they are open to seeking grant funds and/or covering the cost of the paint/materials. Once the sketches come in, the Planning Commission will forward their recommendations to Town Council to discuss the details of completing the project. The Planning Commission will meet on April 20th to discuss the submitted sketches. You may submit your ideas to Lisa Dooley, Town Manager, at ldooley@bloomsburgpa.org and to Kyle Bauman, Code Enforcement Officer, at kbauman@bloomsburgpa.org.
- An Independence Day Celebration has been announced for July 4th at Town Park. For more information visit bloomsburgpa.org.
First Commonwealth Bank Offering Virtual Seminar
Do you have customers that have questions about Buying a New Home? First Commonwealth Bank is offering a virtual seminar Thursday, May 18, 2023, 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Hosted by Jeff Woodward, FCB Senior Mortgage Loan Originator Feel free to join or alert your clients. To RSVP, please visit here: Home Buyer Seminars | First Commonwealth Bank (fcbanking.com)
Building Successful Outcomes in a Hybrid Work Model
Source: My Benefit Advisor
One method by which employees today are looking to improve their overall health and well-being is through the establishment of a better balance between their home and work life. Although the shift to a more flexible work environment has been gaining momentum for some time, the pandemic has significantly accelerated its acceptance.
The degree to which employers support a hybrid or remote work arrangement for their workforce can make a difference in their ability to hire and retain staff as both employed workers and job seekers alike place a heavy emphasis today on things like job stability, the ability to perform meaningful work and flexibility in work arrangements. However, management within organizations operating in a hybrid environment are likely to experience both the benefits and the challenges. In addition to giving employees what they want and boosting hiring efforts, retention and overall productivity, business leaders are also faced with the task of promoting effective communication, employee engagement, idea collaboration and cultural growth.
To successfully promote and maintain hybrid work environment, employers may consider utilizing a few of the following strategies:
- Invest greater resources in team building. This is more important than ever with a workforce lacking interactions at the office. Creating a solid foundation through effective employee engagement will allow for greater collaboration and increased worker productivity.
- Treat all employees fairly. Successful hybrid operations ensure that all employees, whether they work from home or the office, are considered for special projects and promotions. They also provide their on-site workers the same flexibility in scheduling and hours worked as those that work remotely.
- Empower employees. Business leaders shouldn’t fear encouraging employees to accept new responsibilities. Create an environment that fosters innovative thinking, allowing workers to be help create the parameters of their new workspace.
- Trust employees. For many business owners and managers, the hybrid work model represents a significant shift from the traditional leadership roles they may be accustomed to, whereby they were physically present, monitoring daily operations with their eyes and ears. Successfully transitioning to a people-centric style that trusts workers even when not in sight is critical to the model’s success.
- Focus on outcomes. Leaders should look to judge employee productivity by the level of contribution instead of the number of hours worked. Allowing for a more fluid work environment with efficient use of resources can fuel enhanced job performance, making the final outcome more important than the schedule used to achieve it.
- Rethink communication methods. Remote work requires more creative methods of communication. Utilizing a platform that fosters knowledge sharing, leadership visibility and targeted communications is essential in maintaining effective two-way communications between management and employees. And just because employees aren’t in the office doesn’t mean their schedules should be full of numerous zoom meetings. Try utilizing communication that provides for more one-on-one, targeted discussions when appropriate.
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The Columbia-Montour Chamber of Commerce offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at cmcc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Stephen Lylo at (800) 377-3539.