Making Change in Your Organization Starts with You
- Narayan Pant, director of INSEAD and leadership development expert, details three case studies in a Harvard Business Review article about leaders who learned the hard way about the role of personal development in affecting organizational change
- Pant introduces four leadership principles to help leaders become more self-aware and more successful in leading change initiatives
- The first principle is self-awareness – leaders must be willing to accept feedback in all times, not just when things are going well.
- The second principle is a commitment to change - self-reflection can enable course corrections for future efforts.
- The third principle is recognizing interference - being mindful of personal thoughts can help keep negative reactions in check.
- Last but not least, practice makes perfect - making lasting changes starts small and benefits everyone associated with the organization.
770 words/ 3.5 min. read
In every organization, change is inevitable. It's the leaders who play a pivotal role in navigating these shifts, adapting priorities, and reimagining team engagement. However, when leaders are not aware of personal development gaps they inadvertently sabotage change initiatives. In a Harvard Business Review article, Narayan Pant, leadership development expert and director of INSEAD, introduces three leaders who learned the hard way about how their behavior negatively affected their ability to create change. Pant offers these hard-won lessons alongside four principles that will benefit leaders tasked with facilitating company transformation and building a positive team culture.
A Story of Three Leaders
Pant introduces three leaders in his article who serve as allegorical types. The first is Peter who loses his job as CEO because he failed to achieve results in the transformational project he was leading. Next, Naomi is a leader who lost a promotion when her attempts to make organizational change took too long. The last leader is Youssef who almost left his job because he felt misaligned with his team’s culture.
Pant shows how initially each of these leaders located blame outside of themselves. And it’s not a total surprise. Psychologists have identified that humans have a tendency to lean into explanations that confirm their identity. They even have a name for it: cognitive dissonance. Social psychologist and researcher Elliot Aronson defines cognitive dissonance as rationalizations that help us excuse bad behavior. Sometimes these same thoughts can work to our advantage, especially in instances when they help us avoid a bad decision.
In Peter’s case, he believed poor market conditions sabotaged revenue projections. Naomi thought job market conditions and high employee turnover hurt her ability to make change. Youssef blamed his disconnect on the more transactional values of younger leaders. In each case, according to Pant, the leaders failed to see how their own behavior contributed to the outcome.
#1 Build Your Self-Awareness Muscles
“Leaders can only change their behavior when they’re aware of how it’s perceived by others and the thoughts and feelings they experience as they attempt to change,” says Pant. And that self-awareness requires a willingness to discover others’ disappointments and criticism of your leadership. In Peter’s case, he only asked for feedback when things were going well. As the company’s revenue failed to meet projections, he avoided feedback out of fear. Unfortunately, this misstep meant that he only learned how to improve when he was being let go. Pant believes that leaders need feedback in all seasons, especially when something isn’t working.
# 2 Commit to Change
After Naomi lost her promotion, she used self-reflection to course correct. According to Pant, she was aware of her tendency to jump to problem solving and skip listening, in order to ‘save time.’ Her newfound understanding resulted in a promise to do more deep listening and empowering her team to call her out when she reverted backward. Naomi reported the process was humbling, as stress threatened to override her commitment to listening. But with the help of her team, she became a better listener and leader.
#3 Notice Interference
Sometimes obstacles come from inside, not outside. In Youssef’s story, he’d taken on a lower position and a global job transfer to be closer to extended family. He started out positive and curious. However, when his questions initiated criticism of specific policies he’d help create back at headquarters, he became defensive and judgmental. Pant introduced Yourself to a mindfulness-based therapy that allowed him to defuse his negative thoughts. Youssef was especially haunted by a thought that sounded like “I understand this company’s values better than you,” which his colleagues experienced as feeling that Youssef was talking down to them. By learning to notice his thoughts, he was able to create a gap between the thought and his reaction, which helped Youssef transform from a know-it-all to a curious leader who younger team members perceived as a mentor.
#4 The last step is to practice
Discovering your leadership flaws is not fun or easy. The good news is you don’t have to change everything at once. Pant advises to start small. In Naomi’s case, she needed to stop micromanaging and empower team members to do things like lead team meetings or bring issues to the table in intentional meetings. Over time, this improved group culture and helped them all work together to achieve their bigger objectives.
By taking it one step at a time, leaders can make lasting changes. The work required to become a better leader benefits everyone, spilling over from the individual to the team and ultimately positively affecting your organization’s culture. To learn more, read Pant’s full HBR article here.
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The Columbia Montour 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.
Employee Benefit Cost Control Strategies
Source: My Benefit Advisor
In a constantly evolving economic landscape, employers continue to seek
effective strategies to optimize their operations, including the various aspects of employee benefits. Since ensuring the well-being and satisfaction of their workforce is central to their concerns, they seek cost-saving measures that can be implemented without compromising the overall value of benefits.
As employers approach 2023 year-end benefit planning, there are a series of steps that can be taken to fine tune their employee benefit offerings in order to achieve financial savings. By utilizing any of the methods outlined below, business owners can successfully counter the pressures of today’s evolving business and economic forces to stay within their budgetary restraints while crafting an effective and robust benefit portfolio, all while maintaining a positive work environment.
Perform an Evaluation of Benefit Plans
To maximize cost savings, employers should conduct a comprehensive evaluation of their existing benefit plans. Analyzing the utilization rates, employee feedback and cost data allows employers to identify areas of potential improvement or redundancy. By eliminating underutilized or ineffective benefits, employers can redirect resources toward more impactful offerings that align with the needs and preferences of their employees.
Promote Preventive Care and Wellness
Investing in employee wellness programs and promoting preventive care can yield long-term financial savings. Encouraging healthy lifestyles, preventive screenings, and vaccinations can help reduce healthcare costs associated with chronic conditions. By providing incentives for participation in wellness initiatives and facilitating access to discounted gym memberships or wellness resources, employers can proactively mitigate further healthcare expenses.
Embrace Telecommuting and Flexible Work Arrangements
The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the feasibility and cost-saving potential of remote work. By embracing telecommuting and flexible work arrangements, employers can reduce office space requirements, utility costs, and other overhead expenses. Such arrangements not only save money but also enhance work-life balance, job satisfaction and productivity, leading to a positive work environment.
Utilize Technology Solutions
Advancements in technology offer innovative ways for employers to manage employee benefits efficiently. Implementing digital platforms for benefits administration, employee communication, and self-service portals can reduce administrative costs and enhance employee engagement. Automating processes like enrollment, claims management and benefits tracking can streamline operations, eliminate paperwork, and minimize errors.
Negotiate with Benefit Providers
Employers should regularly review their relationships with benefit providers, such as insurance companies, healthcare networks and other third-party vendors. Negotiating better terms, including lower premiums or fees, can result in significant cost savings. Employers can also explore alternative providers or insurance plans to ensure they are getting the most cost-effective options without compromising the quality of benefits.
Foster Employee Education and Communication
Effective communication is vital to maximizing the value of employee benefits while minimizing cost. Employers should provide comprehensive and accessible resources that educate employees on benefit options, coverage details, and cost saving measures. Regularly engaging employees through workshops, webinars or personalized consultations can help them make informed decisions, select appropriate plans, and utilize benefits effectively.
Consider Cost-Sharing Strategies
Sharing healthcare costs with employes through co-pays, deductibles, or coinsurance can alleviate financial burdens for employers. Implementing cost-sharing mechanisms encourages employees to be mindful of healthcare expenses and seek appropriate care. However, employers should carefully balance cost-sharing with employee affordability and ensure that essential services remain accessible to all.
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.
Member News – October 18, 2023
Outta Boundz Holds Grand Opening
Outta Boundz celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on October 14th. Formally known as Skatetown, the space has been reimagined into a premier entertainment venue with a restaurant and bar, upscale bowling, apocalypse laser tag, and video arcade games.
Pennsylvania Council for the Arts Grant available through Community Giving Foundation
Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts (PPA) is a partnership between local organizations and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (PCA). Operating in all 67 Pennsylvania counties, the Community Giving Foundation is the Region 3 Partner serving Columbia, Lycoming, Sullivan, Bradford, and Tioga Counties. Learn more about this for-profit creative business grant.
Pennsylvania College of Technology Invites Companies to Join Program
Pennsylvania College of Technology is invite companies to join their Corporate Tomorrow Makers program. There is no cost to join and benefits include a newsletter, early bird registration awareness for recruitment events and more. Learn more about the program here.
Weis Center Welcoming The Legendary Ingramettes
Roof-raising Gospel Harmonies Coming to the Weis Center
The Weis Center for the Performing Arts will welcome gospel/soul ensemble The Legendary Ingramettes on Thursday, October 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the Weis Center. Learn more.
MARC posts an invitation to Bid for 2024 Lawn Care
Sealed bids for lawn care at the various properties managed by the Montour Area Recreation Commission (MARC) will be received by MARC at any time until 6:59pm on Monday, October 23, 2023. Get the invitation to bid packet here.
Learn more about Small Business Resources
American Express offers several resources for Small Businesses Saturday. Learn more about how to take advantage of them.
Commonwealth University - Bloomsburg Library hosting BTE Panel
Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble (BTE) members—both retired and active—will take part in a panel discussion on Sunday afternoon, October 22, at 3 p.m. in the Schweiker Room of Bloomsburg University’s Andruss Library. The panel is Sponsored by the Friends of the Bloomsburg University Library Association (FOBULA). Light refreshments will be served. Parking is free. Direct questions to Robert Dunkelberger at (570) 389-4210 or email at rdunkelb@bloomu.edu.
BIDA Executive Director Named Chairwoman
Penn’s Northeast, the premier regional economic development agency for Northeastern Pennsylvania, is pleased to announce its newly appointed Board Chairwoman, Kelly O'Brien, the Executive Director of the Berwick Industrial Development Association. Learn more.
2023 Danville Holiday Market Sign-ups Open
Hometown Holiday Market happening December 2nd from 11 am - 4 pm is open for vendor registrations. Follow the links to sign up online or download a printable form to mail in. If you have any questions please contact us at 570-284-4502 or dba.visitdanvillepa@gmail.com
Bloomsburg Veterinary Hospital Hosted Clinic
On October 16th, Bloomsburg Veterinary Hospital spent the day helping to keep the feral cat population under control with a spaying and neutering clinic. 175 cats were treated!
Thrivent hosting fellow Chamber Member Cardinal Estate Planning for a workshop
Join Thrivent Financial and Cardinal Estate Planning for an informational estate planning workshop focused on estate planning on October 26th. Learn more about this workshop.
Glen Brook Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center looking for Trunks
Glen Brook Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center is looking for Trunks for their 2nd Annual Trunk or Treat. Their event is Monday, October 23rd from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. To participate contact Maria Fazio at 570-204-8308 or mfazio@glenbrookrh.com
Penn College Hosting Attack Surface Management Summit
Join Pennsylvania College of Technology and IBM Security for a half-day knowledge-sharing summit on Attack Surface Management, Threat Intelligence, and in-demand Career Skills by leading organizations. Registration deadline is October 31st.
Halloween and Fall Member Events
- Ken Pollock Ford hosting Trunk or Treat on October 23rd 5:00 pm to 7:00pm
- Glen Brook Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center on October 23rd 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
- Berwick Area YMCA Trick or Treat Trail October 23rd beginning at 6:00 pm.
- LCBC October 24th Trunk Or Treat beginning at 6:00 pm
- Celebration Villa of Berwick Fall Festival October 25th starting at 6:00 pm.
- Maria Joseph Continuing Care Community Fall Festival October 25th beginning at 4:00 pm.
- Danville Halloween Parade October 26th beginning at 7:00 pm.
- Booburg happening on 7th Street in Bloomsburg on October 27 beginning at 5:30.
- Riverside Borough Halloween in the Park Saturday October 28th, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
- The Berwick Theater and Center for Community Arts October 28th Movie Masqueade 5K Walk/Run
- For the Cause Teen Center Halloween Carnival October 29th beginning at 11:00 am.
- Town of Bloomsburg Trick or Treat night October 31st, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm.
Commonwealth University of PA - Bloomsburg hosting public lecture series starting November 1
Please join us at the Commonwealth University of PA, Bloomsburg campus on the following dates for a public economic lecture series. These events will be live-streamed please visit their website for more information.
Luzerne County Community College hosting Fall Career Fair
LCCC will be hosting a fall Trades & Technology Career Fair in November and is looking for businesses to participate. Learn more and register today!
Avoid “Digileadhub” Phishing Email Scam
By Chris Berleth, President, The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce
On Tuesday, October 17, the Columbia Montour Chamber became aware of a phishing/spam email that is circling among our members that reads as follows:
“Hi “Chamber Member Name”,
I’m following up to confirm if you are interested in acquiring the Distribution/Member List.
- Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce (Pennsylvania, USA, 2023)
- 1,000+ Contacts
I’m awaiting your response so I can share the price and other information.
Regards,
Cynthia – Event Coordinator”
Phishing
As you likely know, “phishing” is the fraudulent practice of sending emails or other messages purporting to be from reputable companies in order to induce individuals or businesses to reveal personal information, such as passwords and credit card numbers. At this time, the Chamber’s accounts and software are secure, and this phishing email is NOT indicative of a breach of any kind.
As you can see from the above text, the phishing email in question is an unauthorized attempt to sell the Chamber’s directory/membership list. There are several important facts you must know:
Identifying Authentic Communications
Please note the following regarding our communications:
- This email did not derive from Chamber staff, nor does it derive from any of our partners, affiliates, or programs. All communications from the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce originate from email addresses that end in “@columbiamontourchamber.com”.
- Our staff roster, Board of Directors, partners, and affiliates may be verified at any time via our website, columbiamontourchamber.com. Mailed letters endorsing our publication partners always precede the advertising process for our publications.
- The Chamber is proud to partner each year with Victor Koons Graphic Design for the design and publication of our Annual Business Directory and every three years for the Quality Living in Columbia and Montour Counties book, which is a partnership with the Columbia Montour Visitors Bureau. Last but not least, the Chamber proudly partners with the Press Enterprise for our quarterly print publication Business Matters. These remain the endorsed advertising partners of the Chamber.
- Both the Chamber’s print directory and online directory are available to the public at no charge via our website. As part of your member benefits, each member receives a printed copy via mail at no additional charge. In fact, members are set to receive a copy of the new directory (2023-2024) in the next ChamberPack.
- Mailing labels are available for purchase directly through the Chamber both a la carte and as a member benefit at the Promote Level. The Chamber does not contract with a third party for the sale of mailing labels or the distribution of directories. These may be ordered by calling Brenda Flanagan, Administrative Assistant, at 570-784-2522 or emailing her at bflanagan@columbiamontourchamber.com .
Please be careful when responding to email solicitations. We thank our members for promptly making us aware of this phishing email, which attempts to trade on the Chamber’s good name and reputation to get a foot in the door with your business for nefarious purposes.
Trusted IT Resources
For more information regarding cyber security, and how to shield yourself from scam emails like this, please consider working with trusted Chamber members in the Information Technology field:
- Airiam
- Business.Solutions
- InnoTek Computer Consulting
- Contrast
- JLink Inc.
- OPTiMO Information Technology, LLC
For more resources for your business regarding cybersecurity, visit this free resource center created by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Given the rise of cyber security issues facing businesses, now might also be a good time to consider a cyber insurance policy. For more information on those policies, consider connecting with a member insurance agency to mitigate and prevent losses due to cyber-attacks.
New Member Highlight – The Placemat Ladies
The Placemat Ladies offer an affordable way to market your business while supporting local restaurants. Their placemats are in the following restaurants in Northern Columbia County: Central Park Hotel, Central; Jamison City Hotel, Jamison City; Robin’s Cozy Nest, Unityville; and Trails End, Sweet Valley. They also serve four other areas throughout Bradford and Sullivan County.
What’s unique about their brand? They have not raised their rates in over 15 years, even through a 40% increase in printing in the past three years. Additionally, they have added a QR code to their placemats where diners can view the placemats digitally, with links to advertisers’ websites or Facebook pages!
Reach Chamber members this Fall in November ChamberPack!
Fall Has Arrived!
Don't miss the opportunity to keep the shorter days as bay by getting your event, program, workshop, promotion or regular business services in front of Chamber Members by being apart of the next Chamber Pack.
ChamberPack is a cost-effective way to get your information to the Chamber's 400+ members. Just provide copies, and we'll take care of compiling and sending the mailing. The next ChamberPack will be headed to mailboxes the first full week of November. Remember, your fliers need to be submitted for approval by October 23rd and are due at the Chamber by October 27th.
Call the Chamber at 570-784-2522 to reserve your space or click here for more information.
Member News – October 11, 2023
Bloomsburg Fair Moves to Second Round of "Best of Fall" Competition
It’s been one week since the PA Chamber launched its inaugural “Best of Fall” competition – a bracket-style public voting contest over X and Instagram - and voters have showcased their loyalty to a cross-section of Pennsylvania’s autumnal brands, treats, and experiences as 32 nominees have since been narrowed down to the Final 16 including the Bloomsburg Fair. Learn more about this competition and VOTE!
Pennsylvania Council for the Arts Grant available through Community Giving Foundation
Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts (PPA) is a partnership between local organizations and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (PCA). Operating in all 67 Pennsylvania counties, the Community Giving Foundation is the Region 3 Partner serving Columbia, Lycoming, Sullivan, Bradford, and Tioga Counties. Learn more about this for-profit creative business grant.
IMC hosting webinar October 17th
The IMC will be hosting a 55-minute webinar called Meeting the HR Challenge on October 17th. This webinar will help identify and invigorate a new or refreshed awareness of several important elements of meeting today’s HR challenges, especially those directly connected with workforce trends. Learn more and register here.
Weis Center to Host Jazz Pianist
The Weis Center for the Performing Arts will welcome jazz pianist Emmet Cohen and his Trio on Thursday, October 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the Weis Center. There will be a pre-performance talk with the artist from 6:45-7:15 p.m. in the Weis Center Atrium. Learn more.
The Exchange Calls for Entries
The Exchange calls for entries for their October 16th show "Food for Thought" and their annual "Cash & Carry" will celebrate 10 years this November. Learn more on how to enter your artwork.
Maria Joseph hosting the Fall Festival on October 25
Maria Joseph Continuing Care Community will be hosting a fall festival for the surrounding community. On Wednesday, October 25th, beginning at 4:00 pm travel around the Maria Joseph Campus to take part in different fun fall festivities! Learn More.
MARC posts an invitation to Bid for 2024 Lawn Care
Sealed bids for lawn care at the various properties managed by the Montour Area Recreation Commission (MARC) will be received by MARC at any time until 6:59pm on Monday, October 23, 2023. Get the invitation to bid packet here.
PPL hosting Small Appliance Recycling Event
October 14, 2023 in Bloomsburg from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. PPL staff will be ready to unload your room A/Cs and dehumidifiers from your car and help answer any questions you may have. See location and more information here.
Tina Welch presenting at SBDC workshop
Tina Welch of Welch Performance Consulting is presenting at the Bucknell SBDC's October 18th "I'm Ready to Hire! What do I do now?" workshop. This IN PERSON event will explore: Your shift from technical expert to leader, manager, motivator, how to hire for both culture & competence,
the role of change management including role clarity, process, and communication, and employment Law 101 elements that can help you hire smart and stay out of trouble -common first-time employer myths & mistakes will be addressed. Sign up today!
Commonwealth University - Bloomsburg Library hosting BTE Panel
Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble (BTE) members—both retired and active—will take part in a panel discussion on Sunday afternoon, October 22, at 3 p.m. in the Schweiker Room of Bloomsburg University’s Andruss Library. The panel is Sponsored by the Friends of the Bloomsburg University Library Association (FOBULA). Light refreshments will be served. Parking is free. Direct questions to Robert Dunkelberger at (570) 389-4210 or email at rdunkelb@bloomu.edu.
PA Build My Future day Happening October 12th
PA Build My Future gives students the opportunity to have a day to work in the construction and design industry through an interactive showcase. This program is for students entering grades 10-12. Learn more and register.
McKonly & Asbury was chosen as one of the Best Places to Work
McKonly & Asbury is excited to announce they have been chosen as one of the Best Places to Work in PA for 2023! This marks the 19th time in 21 years that McKonly & Asbury has been recognized for this honor. Learn more.
Apollo Point Hosting Dogtoberfest
October 13 - October 15 the first ever Dogtoberfest benefit will be held at Apollo Point. Learn more!
2023 Danville Holiday Market Sign-ups Open
Hometown Holiday Market happening December 2nd from 11 am - 4 pm is open for vendor registrations. Follow the links to sign up online or download a printable form to mail in. If you have any questions please contact us at 570-284-4502 or dba.visitdanvillepa@gmail.com
The Women's Center hosts Domestic Violence Awareness Month Survivor Series
Every1KnowsSome1 recognizes how domestic violence not only effects an indiviudal but an entire community. On October 17 there will be a discussion on ways the community can work together to end domestic violence while hearing survivor stories from Crystal Silva and Jenny Rose. Register today.
Affordable Care Act Refresher - Employer Responsibilities Webinar to be held October 18th
Join the My Benefit Advisor compliance team for a review of ACA rules and regulations as well as best practices. They will provide key information for our broker partners to share with their Applicable Large Employers (ALEs), employers close to the 50-life threshold, and level/self-funded groups under 50. Click here to register.
Thrivent hosting fellow Chamber Member Cardinal Estate Planning for a workshop
Join Thrivent Financial and Cardinal Estate Planning for an informational estate planning workshop focused on estate planning on October 26th. Learn more about this workshop.
Glen Brook Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center looking for Trunks
Glen Brook Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center is looking for Trunks for their 2nd Annual Trunk or Treat. Their event is Monday, October 23rd from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. To participate contact Maria Fazio at 570-204-8308 or mfazio@glenbrookrh.com
Celebration Villa Hosting Fall Festival
October 25th Celebration Villa of Berwick will be hosting a Fall Festival. This event is open to the public! There will be several activities to do such as: pumpkin painting, spooky cookie decorating, a walk through the haunted courtyard, trick or treating, and more!
Penn College Hosting Attack Surface Management Summit
Join Pennsylvania College of Technology and IBM Security for a half-day knowledge-sharing summit on Attack Surface Management, Threat Intelligence, and in-demand Career Skills by leading organizations. Registration deadline is October 31st.
Halloween Events
- Ken Pollock Ford hosting Trunk or Treat on October 23rd 5:00 pm to 7:00pm
- Glen Brook Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center on October 23rd 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
- Danville Halloween Parade October 26th beginning at 7:00 pm.
- Riverside Borough Halloween in the Park Saturday October 28th, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
- Town of Bloomsburg Trick or Treat night October 31st, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm.
Commonwealth University of PA - Bloomsburg hosting public lecture series starting November 1
Please join us at the Commonwealth University of PA, Bloomsburg campus on the following dates for a public economic lecture series. These events will be live-streamed please visit their website for more information.
Luzerne County Community College hosting Fall Career Fair
LCCC will be hosting a fall Trades & Technology Career Fair in November and is looking for businesses to participate. Learn more and register today!
PRO-GROWTH BUSINESS TAX REFORMS PASS HOUSE; FINAL PACKAGE INCLUDES POISON PILL
Source: PA Chamber of Business & Industry
Last Tuesday, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed House Bill 1219, tax code legislation that would make several significant changes to the Commonwealth’s business tax structure. In the course of considering this bill, the House voted on and passed two PA Chamber-supported amendments offered by Rep. Dallas Kephart (R-Clearfield) to accelerate the phasedown of the Corporate Net Income tax (CNI) and raise the cap on Net Operating Loss (NOL) deductions, respectively. However, the final tax package would also impose combined reporting as the new system for tax filings for multi-state employers, a measure which the PA Chamber strongly opposes.
In a statement, PA Chamber President & CEO Luke Bernstein welcomed strong support from both sides of the aisle for measures to speed up the CNI reduction and improve the treatment of NOLs.
“Once again, when lawmakers have an opportunity to vote on pro-growth tax reform to improve Pennsylvania’s business climate, these measures pass with strong bipartisan support,” Bernstein said. “Just like in the Senate Finance Committee earlier this year, it is clear that Republicans and Democrats all agree that we need to make Pennsylvania more competitive by reducing tax rates on businesses and encouraging companies to invest here in the Commonwealth,” Bernstein continued. Bernstein also pushed back on the combined reporting requirement, which he identified as a “poison pill.”
He cited an analysis from the Council on State Taxation (COST), concluding that such a system would transform Pennsylvania’s business tax structure into one of the most punitive and aggressive in the nation. Nevertheless, Bernstein emphasized the state’s potential to become “an economic powerhouse” with the right policies, given the Commonwealth’s many strategic advantages related to geography, natural resources, infrastructure, and workforce quality.
“Passing an expedited CNI and increasing the cap on NOLs without combined reporting would set Pennsylvania on a competitive path that would rival not only other states but other nations,” Bernstein said. House Bill 1219 passed in a party-line vote on Tuesday evening. It now heads to the Senate, where its fate is uncertain: the Senate could decline to consider the bill, amend and send it back to the state House, or vote for it as-is and, if it passes, send H.B. 1219 to the Governor for his signature or veto. As this process unfolds, the PA Chamber continues to work closely with lawmakers to advocate on behalf of Pennsylvania employers. If you have any questions, please contact PA Chamber Director of Government Affairs Neal Lesher at nlesher@pachamber.org.
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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. The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a member in good standing of the PA Chamber of Business & Industry.
Attention Small Businesses: Achieve Big Things When You ‘Think Small’
Preview
• Entrepreneurs are encouraged to have ambitious goals, but it is also important to take time to focus on the present.
• One way for small business owners to gain an advantage is to build a rapport with their initial customers: personalize support, actively solicit feedback, and create customer success teams.
• Focusing on small numbers associated with the business can lead to a better understanding of profit margins and ROI; investing in a strong POS system can help with this.
• Lastly, taking daily actions that support long-term plans and recognizing employees' contributions will help businesses grow and scale.
~ 672 words/ 3 min. read
Entrepreneurs, particularly those running small businesses, are often encouraged to aim high. What's the pace of your business growth? How soon can you onboard a team? What's the timeline for expanding to multiple locations? Although it's common practice to idealize an accelerated pathway to success, it is valuable to slow down and concentrate on the present. For those managing lean start-ups or small ventures, adopting a "think small" mentality has significant advantages. Here are three ways focusing on the little things makes a big difference.
#1 Learn from Your Initial Customers
Building a rapport with first-time customers is one of the most crucial actions a business owner can take. After all, they’re choosing your products and services for the first time. Understanding what drew them to your business is valuable feedback that will help your business grow. Was it the charm of your sales pitch, your interpersonal skills, or factors such as your product package or location?
Connecting with your customers is more than a growth strategy—it’s a differentiator. In their article, "Rapport-Building Questions: 68 Memorable Questions for Establishing Rapport with Customers," Hubspot suggests focusing on these strategies to build rapport with your business patrons:
Personalize Customer Support
Take time to learn your customers’ first names and use them to personalize communication. Survey and email automation tools have made adding personal touches easier than ever.
Actively Solicit Feedback
Customer reviews make a real difference in how many first-time buyers choose your business. Encourage customers to leave google reviews or testimonials through positive messaging or even incentives. The time customers take to leave a review and your gratitude fosters customer loyalty.
Create a Customer Success Team
Customer success and customer service have an important difference: the first is proactive and the second is reactive. By ensuring customers achieve their goals when they do business with you, you’re showing that you care about their experience and building long-term connections.
#2 Focus on Small Numbers
In addition to cultivating relationships with individual customers, Hannah Shr, senior program manager at ICA Fund, recommends concentrating on the smaller numbers associated with your business. These might include a single transaction, one SKU, a solitary purchase order, or a single credit card swipe. As inconsequential as these figures may seem, understanding them is key to unlocking broader concepts around your profit margins, sales, and ROI.
Investing in a strong POS (point of sale) system to help calculate this kind of data is one of the most important things a small business can do. The Small Business Association defines POS as including “the hardware and software related to transactions, such as the cash drawer, credit card swipe bar, barcode scanners, receipt printers, and more.” The SBA also notes that a quality POS system can help you do more than improve functionality and track real-time data, it can also help evaluate employee sales records, manage inventory, and prepare for taxes.
#3 Take Action Daily
Like most things in life, your vision becomes a reality when you execute consistently. When it comes to your business, consider the small actions you can take daily that support your long-term goals. The US Chamber of Commerce has 10 action steps small businesses can take to grow and scale that range from social media exposure to optimizing your website. And one of the most practical and important steps you can take today is recognizing your employees.
Hiring and retention have become even more challenging for employers in the last few years, but it’s also re-energized the conversation around workplace happiness and satisfaction. Jessica Elliot, US Chamber contributor, offers these helpful strategies for making employee recognition straightforward and effective:
• Gather employee details with a profile template you can use over and over
• Take high-quality images and create short videos of team member contributions
• Spotlight employees of the week/month on multiple channels, including your website
The Bottom Line
As you look to the future of your business, remember: thinking small pays big dividends. Focusing on the customer experience, employee satisfaction, and real-time data create a solid foundation for business growth. Each action you take will become a stepping stone for the business you’ve always wanted.
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The Columbia Montour 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.
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Chamber Seeks Member Feedback for Commissioner Candidate Forums
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that we'll once again be hosting Candidate Forums for the upcoming general election. On November 2, the Chamber will host a similar forum for the candidates for Columbia County Commissioner (Dean Brewer, Randy Karshner, David Kovach, and Edward Sanders III) in partnership with Commonwealth University, Bloomsburg.
The Chamber's Government Affairs Committee is hard at work preparing for each of these events, and at this time, we're offering Chamber members the opportunity to propose questions for the forums. If you have a question that you'd like to see us pose to the commissioners, please submit it below.
If you'd like to attend the events, please register here: