Chamber Blog--Positioning For Success

McDowell Chamber of Commerce is invested in the success of our county and works to create opportunities, facilitate economic growth, and promote our area as an enticing place to live, work, and play. Our goal is also to be an advocate for our businesses and help them thrive and grow. In Positioning For Success, we'll share tips, tools, expert advice, and resources to help you do just that--Thrive & Grow!
Wednesday, December 1, 2021
Prepare and Manage Employee Turnover

I've had several conversations with staff and customers about problems resulting from the turmoil of our labor market. In April and May of this year alone a record 8 million people quit their jobs either voluntarily or otherwise. The labor force participation rate was 61.7% in July 2021, 1.7 percentage points below the level in January 2020, before the pandemic and the economic recession. Business owners are also dealing with supply chain issues and the busy holiday season is here as well. While I can't

Tina Wolfe

Tuesday, March 9, 2021
How Companies Can Get Employees Back to the Workplace Safely

Coronavirus made working from home the norm for most of 2020 and into 2021, however some businesses have begun to gradually return to their offices. As people across the world ease into what was once normal, many remain concerned of potential outbreaks at work, massive shut downs, companies policies to avoid infections, among other issues. While the idea of returning to work in person may sound a bit anxiety-inducing, this guide will navigate what precautions companies are taking as well as what employees

Information provided by Safety.com

Monday, June 15, 2020
Why Creativity is Crucial to Survival in Chaotic Times

We need complexity to navigate complexity. I call this the chewing gum method. You know: what's the best way to remove a wad of chewing gum that you've just stepped into from the bottom of your shoe? More chewing gum! The same goes for navigating complexity. Apply creativity, a complex system, to navigate these complex times.

Natalie Nixon

Monday, May 6, 2019
Celebrate National Small Business Week!

You don’t have to leave your home or office to join SBA and the National Small Business Week award winners live from Washington, DC on May 5-6. Watch the awards ceremonies and business workshops on the next wave in digital commerce and social media tips for businesses live on SBA's Facebook page.

Tina Wolfe

Tuesday, April 2, 2019
When NO Means Yes For Your Business

Trying to do too much and trying to do it perfectly will lead you to mediocrity and drain your energy faster than it drains your bank account. Learn how to differentiate between distinctive work and business essential work and why what you say NO to, can transform your business!

Guest Blogger, Lynn Carnes, Lynn Carnes Associates/Creative Spirits Unleashed

Thursday, March 28, 2019
Employees Or Independent Contractors?

Many businesses classify their workers as independent contractors for legitimate business reasons. However, a worker misclassification can have severe financial consequences, especially for small businesses that are hit with various penalties and required to pay restitution. Consider these issues before classifying your workers and decide whether you’re better off paying some extra costs upfront but avoiding the risk of worker misclassification case.

Tina Wolfe

Monday, March 18, 2019
5 Myths About Payroll Taxes

If you want to grow your business, you probably need to hire employees to help you. Becoming an employer and expanding your staff entails many responsibilities, one of which is seeing to payroll taxes. Unfortunately, there are many myths about these taxes.

Tina Wolfe

Tuesday, July 24, 2018
Agility--Why Maintaining It Will Help Your Business

The Greek philosopher Heraclitus is known for his insistence that change is the fundamental element of the universe. You may be familiar with his quote, "The only thing that is constant is change." For many, change incites a sense of unease at best and at worst, a great fear. In business, however, the ability to change is the mainspring to success. Tradition certainly has its place in establishing quality and integrity within your business operations, but it is change that can propel you to new heights.

Tina Wolfe

Friday, December 29, 2017
Last Minute Tax Moves to Consider

As the festivities of the Christmas season settle in our collective memories, its time to gear up for the coming year. Our guest blogger, Johnson Price Sprinkle PA has some excellent advice on last minute things you should consider when preparing your taxes both personal and business. The new tax law brings some changes you'll need to consider in order to file correctly and take advantage of all the deductions for which you qualify.

Johnson Price Sprinkle PA

Monday, November 13, 2017
Four Critical Points to Effective Business Partnerships

Some of the most prolific and successful companies in history began as partnerships. Think McDonald's, Hewlett Packard, and Google. On the flip side, you have those partnerships that went down in flames. Facebook's split between Saverin and Zuckerman, Citigroup's breakup between Jamie Dimon and Sandy Weill among others. That's why it's important to do your homework, consult a professional, and don't let emotions get in the way.

Tina Wolfe