Three Ways to Combat Retail Crime in 2024
Source: Tom Wickham, Senior Vice President, State and Local Policy, US Chamber Chamber of Commerce
Communities and businesses large and small across the United States are
struggling to stay afloat amid an historic wave of retail crime. Retail crime incidents are increasingly turning violent, with innocent customers, employees, and business owners bearing the financial and societal costs: Retail crime creates higher prices for consumers, results in stores having to close their doors, and communities left without vital goods and services.
Last September, we spoke to the owner of a small-batch coffee roaster in San Francisco whose coffee shop has survived a half-century—but may not survive this current crime wave. Across the country, stories just like that abound. No business should ever have to close because of crime.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has focused intensely on addressing retail crime since defining it as a national crisis in a letter to Congress in March 2022. In the Chamber’s Crime Risk to Business report, we provide an overview of current federal, state, and local laws aiming to tackle retail crime. And we provide an analysis of innovative solutions businesses are pursuing to secure their stores, employees and customers.
The Chamber recommends three key steps communities should take to combat retail crime:
Coordinate resources among business and law enforcement
One of the greatest challenges in fighting retail crime is uniting the broad range of businesses and the multiple layers of government that make up our communities. Sophisticated criminal organizations have a single goal of hitting the weakest link in a community repeatedly to avoid detection and maximize profits. Vital information on criminal activity and resources to combat it are often siloed and not disseminated between businesses, law enforcement, and policymakers.
To effectively fight rampant crime, local businesses must coordinate and share information on criminal strikes to discern trends and effective responses. This coordination can occur under the umbrella of a local chamber of commerce like the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce’s Organized Retail Crime Association or the Ohio Chamber’s Crime Task Force. Gathering local businesses, law enforcement, and policymakers in one setting dedicated to confronting crime fosters shared solutions that can increase community detection and quicken response efforts.
Aggregate offenses to punish repeat offenders
The criminal gangs targeting our businesses are shrewd, exploiting the laws of a given jurisdiction to maximize their thefts and minimize their chances for arrest and prosecution. Thieves accomplish this by repeatedly stealing just below the felony threshold during each theft, with multiple thefts often committed across jurisdictional lines and often against the same stores again and again. Prosecutors like San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan have advised that state laws be changed to create a separate offense for the repeated stealing of certain amounts within specific time periods. By allowing for the aggregation of offenses against criminals, we can reduce the repeated store-by-store thefts plaguing our communities and driving businesses to close their doors.
Prosecute aggressively to combat lawlessness
Crucial to any anti-crime response is the local prosecutor. District Attorneys and County Attorneys are the gatekeepers of the criminal justice system, deciding whether arrested parties will be prosecuted. Lax prosecution of crimes against businesses sends the wrong message to business owners and communities, and only emboldens criminals. The business community should support legislation reducing the case backlog for state and local courts, thereby freeing up prosecutors’ ability to address current crimes.
Crimes spanning multiple jurisdictions pose a logistical and manpower problem for prosecutors, but progress is underway. State legislatures should follow the lead of Pennsylvania, where a new law supported by the Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce creates a new office of Deputy Attorney General for Organized Retail Crime Theft. States should also empower attorney generals and special prosecutors to assist in complex, multijurisdictional cases to send a strong statewide message against retail crime.
Sophisticated criminal gangs look for legal loopholes to exploit to continue repeated thefts in our communities. Policy leaders and business groups must act to coordinate resources, update laws, and demand increased prosecution of crimes against businesses.
By taking these three key steps to combat retail crime, communities can stem the tide of rising crime in 2024 and better protect their businesses.
About the authors
Tom Wickham, former Parliamentarian of the U.S. House of Representatives, serves as senior vice president of State & Local Policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Wickham leads the Chamber’s new division that monitors state and local policy developments and coordinates state and local policy advocacy strategies within the existing Chamber framework.
Member News – January 31, 2024
Non-Profits Serving Columbia County Invited to Open House
The Partners and Tenants of The Hub at Mulberry are inviting non-profits serving Columbia County to an open house on February 1st from 4:30 - 6:30. The evening will include light hors d'oeuvres, tours, and the opportunity to learn how to utilize the facility. See invite.
First Friday's Celebrating Anniversary
February is the one-year anniversary of First Fridays in downtown Bloomsburg. Watch this news feature from WNEP.
Focus Central PA hosting Forum
Focus Central PA will be hosting an Industrial Development Forum on March 13, 2024. The forum will be held at Commonwealth University- Bloomsburg. Learn more on their website and check out the flyer.
BIDA Semi-Annual Wage Survey
BIDA is conducting a job & wage survey. Your input would be appreciated. They will share the final report with everyone who participated. If you would like more information please do not hesitate to contact them at 570-752-3612. Start the survey here.
Maria Joseph Continuing Care Community Hosting Open House
Join Maria Joseph Continuing Care Community for an Open House at the Sunset Wing at the Emmanuel Center. See the open house flyer here.
DCDC Celebrating 50 Years
Danville Child Developing Center will be hosting a 50th Anniversary Celebration on February 5th. Check out the invitation.
Susquehanna Valley United Way's Annual Kindness Campaign is Back!
Join SVUW for Kindness Week, Feb. 12-16! This year’s themes are Kind is the New Cool, Be Kind to all Kinds, Random Acts of Kindness, Be Kind to Your Mind, and Celebrate Kindness. They are currently seeking Kindness Award nominations through Sunday, Feb. 4th.
Weis Center February Performances
- NYC-based contemporary dance powerhouse Ballet Hispánico on Tuesday, Feb. 6 at 7:30 p.m. at the Weis Center.
- Roots, rock, rhythm and blues, and folk singer Kyshona on Thursday, Feb. 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the Weis Center.
- Blues artists Jontavious Willis and Jayy Hop on Wednesday, Feb. 14 at 7:30 p.m. at the Weis Center.
Columbia Montour AVTS Hosting Open House
Columbia-Montour AVTS will be hosting an Open House on Feb 4, 2024 from 1-4pm. They are recruiting businesses to come in and be present for a career fair for prospective students and parents. The event will be focused on the career opportunities that companies may have to offer for prospective students and parents to start thinking toward their future. To learn more contact Pamela Slusser, 570-784-8040 ext.3345 OR at pslusser@cmvt.us.
The Nicholas Wolff Foundation Inc. Announces New Hires
The Nicholas Wolff Foundation Inc. / Camp Victory is enthused to announce Gail Truax as the next Camp Director of Camp Victory. They have also added part-time Bookkeeper, Vicki Moyer to their staff. Congratulations Gail and Vicki!
Research Study participants needed
Research Participants needed for a study conducted by the Exercise Science Department of Bloomsburg University. It is a wrist worn heart rate study and participants should be between 30 - 60. They will need to attend 1 exercise visit to 113 Centennial Hall. Contact Dr. Joseph Andreacci for more information!
Community Giving Foundation Annual Meeting
On March 6th join the Community Giving Foundation at their 2024 Annual Meeting as they celebrate 25 years of our Foundation. Register on their website. by February 21st.
PCT Offering Professional Development Classes
Pennsylvania College of Technology is offering training across a broad spectrum of topics. From the novice learning a new program or skill, to seasoned users aiming to hone the most advanced skills, our vast library of available course topics meets the needs of any business. Check out their upcoming Training opportunities flyer.
Bloomsburg's Children's Museum Paint Party
On Saturday, February 3rd for a Valentine's Day Paint Party. This event is hosted by the Friends of the Bloomsburg Children's Museum. Bring a friend, or make new ones for a fun time of painting and making an amazing memory with a fun group of people. Suggested for ages 8+. Learn more.
Commonwealth University offering CMA Training
Commonwealth University is hosting Clinical Medical Assistant training at the Bloomsburg Campus. Get trained to assist physicians with the administration of medications and with minor procedures, performing an EKG electrocardiogram, obtaining laboratory specimens for testing, educating patients, and other related tasks. To get more information on the program here and to learn about scholarship opportunities here.
Chamber Members Featured on WNEP's Home and Backyard
Neighbors Helping Neighbors Event & Pursel Award Nominations
Community Giving Foundation Neighbors Helping Neighbors Event will be held Saturday April 20th. As part of that event the Pursel Award for Neighbor of the Year will be honored. Nominations for the 2024 Pursel Award are open until February 16th. Learn more and nominate an individual or organization here.
Teen Center Hosting Pasta Dinner Fundraiser
Teen Center of Berwick is hosting a Pasta Dinner Fundraiser on February 10th with 100% of the donations going towards the Orangeville Manor Veterans home. Click here to get all the details and register.
CMSU Hosting Recovery Simulation
February 16 from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm CMSU will be hosting a Recovery Simulation. Join them for an interactive experience to understand the challenges faced by those in early recovery from Substance Use Disorder
Space is limited! For more information and to learn how to register click here by February 12th.
NonProfit Leadership Series Continues in February
Facilitated by the Community Giving Foundation and United Way Partners Addressing Burnout in the Non Profit Sector will be offered on February 22 1:00 - 4:00 at the Old Forge Brewing Company. Register Online for the Session by February 16th. This session is limited to 2 attendees per organization. If you have additional staff that would be interested in attending if capacity allows, you can add them to our waitlist by emailing ameyers-sanonu@csgiving.org.
Charging Ahead: Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Partnership Event
SEDA-COG and Penn College are hosting a Charging Ahead: Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Partnership Event on February 22. This EV "EVent" to be hosted at Penn College in Williamsport will feature interactive discussions on the challenges and opportunities of EV infrastructure, ways to increase public EV charging station availability, and consideration of funding opportunities for new charging infrastructure across the region. If you have any questions about the event please contact Don Kiel dkiel@seda-cog.org or 814-553-8689. To register click here.
Penn College to host Baja SAE Competition in May
Baja SAE challenges engineering students to design and build an off-road vehicle that will survive the severe punishment of rough terrain and in some competitions, water. Penn College will host a Baja SAE international competition, May 16–19, 2024, at the Schneebeli Earth Science Center’s heavy construction equipment operations training site. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities for the BAJA SAE Williamsport and ways to support the team.
Ensuring Growth of Middle Managers is Crucial for a Flourishing Workplace
- Upskilling middle managers can lead to better productivity and performance.
- Foster a culture of learning and development through upskilling.
- Improve decision-making and problem-solving abilities through professional development opportunities.
- Investing in the growth of middle managers can attract and retain top talent.
- Keeping pace with industry trends is essential for business success.
672 words ~ 3 min read
Small business owners have a lot on their plates - managing budgets, meeting targets, and overseeing employees. But amidst all these responsibilities, one thing that often gets overlooked is the development of middle management. In this article, we'll explore five benefits that come with upskilling middle managers in order to create a thriving workplace that supports growth and success.
#1 Boost Employee Productivity and Performance
Middle managers are the ones who bridge the gap between the employees and upper management. They are responsible for translating the company's goals and vision into actionable plans for their teams. Upskilling middle managers can help them become better-equipped to manage their teams and nurture their employees' skills. This, in turn, can lead to better productivity and performance, as employees feel more engaged and invested in their work.
Leadership experts advise on-going coaching and mentoring for middle managers, who are often less experienced managing employees. McKinsey & Co. calls this “capability building,” and reports that most managers could benefit from support in these areas:
- Engaging in complex problem solving by defining, structuring, and prioritizing issues
- Synthesizing ideas and communicating effectively by structuring communications, tailoring messages, and inspiring action
- Coaching direct reports to enhance impact through development, emotional intelligence, engagement, and talent retention.
- Designing and executing strategic plans to align, engage, and mobilize teams.
#2 Foster a Culture of Learning & Development
When middle managers are encouraged to learn and grow, they are more likely to pass on this mindset to their teams. Upskilling opportunities can help middle managers learn new tools, techniques, and strategies that they can then share with their teams. This culture of learning and development can have a ripple effect throughout the organization, leading to a more energized and motivated workforce.
What do you middle managers need to learn? Investing time in assessing their strengths and skill gaps can provide direction. Maybe the manager could benefit from a specific book, course, or program. Often managers are happy to grow in these areas, knowing their career advancement and work/life balance depends on their professional development.
#3 Improve Decision-Making and Problem-Solving Abilities
Middle managers are often tasked with making difficult decisions and solving complex problems. By investing in their development, you can equip them with the tools and skills needed to make more informed decisions and find creative solutions to challenges, which ultimately leads to better outcomes, increased efficiency, and reduced costs.
Inc. contributor, Bernard Coleman, recommends senior managers use a technique he calls the ‘Feedback Five.’ Coleman uses this trust-building exercise to provide timely feedback, so employees are receiving input sooner rather than later on their performance.
#4 Attract and Retain Top Talent
When employees see that their managers are invested in their growth and development, they are more likely to stay with the company long-term. This can help reduce costly turnover and ensure that your company is staffed with top talent. Additionally, creating a culture of learning can also help attract new employees who are looking for opportunities for growth and development.
Implementing professional development opportunities for managers is beyond icing on the cake. A survey from The Execu|Search Group found that 86% of professionals are willing to switch jobs if a new company provides better professional development prospects.
#5 Keep Pace with Industry Trends
Industries are constantly evolving, and it's essential for businesses to keep up. Upskilling your middle managers can help ensure that your company stays ahead of the curve and is equipped to navigate changes and challenges. Additionally, investing in the development of your team can help you differentiate yourself from competitors and position your company as a leader in the industry.
The Bottom Line
As a small business owner, it's important to prioritize the development of your middle managers. Investing in their education and upskilling can have a significant impact on their ability to lead teams, make informed decisions, foster a culture of learning, retain top talent, and keep pace with industry trends. By creating a thriving workplace where employees feel valued and empowered, you are setting your business up for long-term growth and success.
---
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.
New Member Highlight – Focus Central PA
Focus Central Pennsylvania is a 501 (c)3 non-profit with the mission is to attract investment that cultivates economic growth in Central Pennsylvania. This mission is important to the region’s smart economic growth efforts because quality careers are created when capital investment is put to risk. Focus Central Pennsylvania proudly markets investment opportunities in seven contiguous counties in Central PA including Centre, Mifflin, Union, Snyder, Northumberland, Montour, and Columbia. These counties partner regionally to effectively leverage resources to market the region to attract quality investment by providing professional, timely and accurate data and information on available properties, infrastructure, talent, livability, resources and more to support a company's strategic investment decisions.
Member News – January 24, 2024
Focus Central PA hosting Forum
Focus Central PA will be hosting an Industrial Development Forum on March 13, 2024. The forum will be held at Commonwealth University- Bloomsburg. Learn more on their website and check out the flyer.
IMC recognized for Offering Professional Development Credits
The Innovative Manufacturers’ Center (IMC), Inc. is thrilled to announce its recent recognition by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) as a SHRM Recertification General Provider. IMC is now authorized to offer Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. Learn more.
Columbia Montour AVTS Hosting Open House
Columbia-Montour AVTS will be hosting an Open House on Feb 4, 2024 from 1-4pm. They are recruiting businesses to come in and be present for a career fair for prospective students and parents. The event will be focused on the career opportunities that companies may have to offer for prospective students and parents to start thinking toward their future. To learn more contact Pamela Slusser, 570-784-8040 ext.3345 OR at pslusser@cmvt.us.
Miller-Keystone Blood Center Launched New Website
Check out the new giveapint.org.
Commonwealth University of PA Spring Career Expo
Join Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania (Mansfield, Lock Haven & Bloomsburg campuses) as they present a variety of boutique-style career expos this spring. Reach out Darwin Kysor at dkysor@commonwealthu.edu or call 570-484-2181.
Community Giving Foundation 2024 Grant Round is Now Open!
Community Giving Foundation is pleased to announce 2024 competitive grant rounds are now open. Grant rounds include opportunities through Berwick, Bloomsburg, Danville, Selinsgrove, and Sunbury affiliate foundations. The process opens January 2nd and closes February 29th. Learn more.
PCT Offering Spring Workforce Development Classes
Three levels of how to use Microsoft Excel are being offered this spring by the Pennsylvania College of Technology. Get full course descriptions and register here.
Commonwealth University offering CMA Training
Commonwealth University is hosting Clinical Medical Assistant training at the Bloomsburg Campus. Get trained to assist physicians with the administration of medications and with minor procedures, performing an EKG electrocardiogram, obtaining laboratory specimens for testing, educating patients, and other related tasks. To get more information on the program here and to learn about scholarship opportunities here.
Bloomsburg Children's Museum Announces February Calendar
Get the full February Schedule here!
Non-Profits Serving Columbia County Invited to Open House
The Partners and Tenants of The Hub at Mulberry are inviting non-profits serving Columbia County to an open house on February 1st from 4:30 - 6:30. The evening will include light hors d'oeuvres, tours, and the opportunity to learn how to utilize the facility. See invite.
Ballet Hispánico Returns to the Weis Center on Feb. 6
The Weis Center for the Performing Arts will welcome back NYC-based contemporary dance powerhouse Ballet Hispánico on Tuesday, Feb. 6 at 7:30 p.m. at the Weis Center. Learn more about the production here!
Mission Autism Clinics announces new Bloomsburg Clinical Director
MAC is happy to introduce Rose F! She is the new Clinical Director at their Bloomsburg Clinic. She has worked with individuals with autism for over 15 years. Her goal to support bringing ABA services to kids in underserved communities aligns perfectly with MAC's goals. Welcome Rose!
DCDC Celebrating 50 Years
Danville Child Developing Center will be hosting a 50th Anniversary Celebration on February 5th. Check out the invitation.
Neighbors Helping Neighbors Event & Pursel Award Nominations
Community Giving Foundation Neighbors Helping Neighbors Event will be held Saturday April 20th. As part of that event the Pursel Award for Neighbor of the Year will be honored. Nominations for the 2024 Pursel Award are open until February 16th. Learn more and nominate an individual or organization here.
Teen Center Hosting Pasta Dinner Fundraiser
Teen Center of Berwick is hosting a Pasta Dinner Fundraiser on February 10th with 100% of the donations going towards the Orangeville Manor Veterans home. Click here to get all the details and register.
CMSU Hosting Recovery Simulation
February 16 from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm CMSU will be hosting a Recovery Simulation. Join them for an interactive experience to understand the challenges faced by those in early recovery from Substance Use Disorder
Space is limited! For more information and to learn how to register click here by February 12th.
NonProfit Leadership Series Continues in February
Facilitated by the Community Giving Foundation and United Way Partners Addressing Burnout in the Non Profit Sector will be offered on February 22 1:00 - 4:00 at the Old Forge Brewing Company. Register Online for the Session by February 16th. This session is limited to 2 attendees per organization. If you have additional staff that would be interested in attending if capacity allows, you can add them to our waitlist by emailing ameyers-sanonu@csgiving.org.
Charging Ahead: Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Partnership Event
SEDA-COG and Penn College are hosting a Charging Ahead: Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Partnership Event on February 22. This EV "EVent" to be hosted at Penn College in Williamsport will feature interactive discussions on the challenges and opportunities of EV infrastructure, ways to increase public EV charging station availability, and consideration of funding opportunities for new charging infrastructure across the region. If you have any questions about the event please contact Don Kiel dkiel@seda-cog.org or 814-553-8689. To register click here.
Penn College to host Baja SAE Competition in May
Baja SAE challenges engineering students to design and build an off-road vehicle that will survive the severe punishment of rough terrain and in some competitions, water. Penn College will host a Baja SAE international competition, May 16–19, 2024, at the Schneebeli Earth Science Center’s heavy construction equipment operations training site. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities for the BAJA SAE Williamsport and ways to support the team.
Sustainability and Green Building Trends in Construction
Source: Daniel Dorgan, CPA, McKonly & Asbury
In recent years, the construction industry has taken major strides in designing and completing increasingly sustainable and environmentally conscious projects. This article will look at some of the underlying topics around this movement and address what is driving these changes, benefits, costs, and challenges of sustainable and green building.
Energy-efficient building designs are at the forefront of green construction. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certifications are the most prominent in the industry, promoting a “framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings, which offer environmental, social, and governance benefits.” According to the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED certifications have grown at an average of 20% over the past 5 years and over 6.99 billion gross square feet were registered from 2017-2021.
While seen as the gold standard of green building, there are drawbacks to the highly sought-after certification. Challenges include the additional cost of gaining and maintaining a LEED certification, as well as the availability and cost of obtaining green and sustainable materials. Studies conducted by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) indicate that the cost on average of a green building compared to a traditional building would be 17% higher. The USGBC shares that the initial cost of a green building is only 2-3% higher than traditional building techniques.
Renewable energy, such as solar and wind, has also been a subject on the rise over the past few years. The industry saw record power capacity additions during 2022 with global investment across all energy transition technology reaching $1.3 USD, per the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
Benefits Sustainable Construction
The benefits to greener and more sustainable construction are clear. The decrease in carbon emissions and the reduction on the world’s dependence of fossil fuels serve as two primary drivers for the switch to green building. According to USGBC and EPA studies, a range of programs have helped lower carbon emissions by 30% along with reducing energy use by 26%.
Outside of the environmental impact, builders can expect incentives related to increased property values and can benefit from several tax incentives. Popular incentives include the IRC 179D energy efficient commercial buildings deduction for energy efficient commercial building property (EECBP) and/or energy efficient commercial building retrofit property (EEBRP), as well as the 45L tax credit for new energy efficient homes.
As described above, the idea of sustainable and green building is not simply a trend, but a global movement towards a more sustainable future. The architecture, engineering, and construction industry are at the forefront of this movement and, as such, will encounter their fair share of the benefits and challenges.
For more information regarding McKonly & Asbury’s Construction experience, be sure to visit the Construction Services page, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a member of the Construction team.
Congress Advances Bipartisan Tax Relief Legislation
Source: PA Chamber of Business and Industry
Congress unveiled the $78 billion Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act. This bipartisan proposal aims to address critical economic challenges while promoting the financial well-being of working families, stimulating economic growth, bolstering American competitiveness, and strengthening communities, with a particular focus on small businesses.
The legislation, which represents a compromise between House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (R-MO) and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden (D-OR), includes several provisions supported by the PA Chamber.
Specifically, the bill would restore immediate Research and Development (R&D) expensing, return to a pro-growth interest deductibility standard, and reinstate full expensing for businesses’ capital investments.
Immediate R&D expensing allows employers to instantly deduct research and development investments from their tax liability, while the pro-growth interest deductibility standard offers flexibility for employers dealing with higher interest rates.
Additionally, the reinstatement of full expensing for capital investments would allow Pennsylvania businesses to immediately deduct the entire cost of machinery and equipment, which provides an incentive for businesses to upgrade and modernize their infrastructure.
Significant limitations went into effect for R&D expensing and interest deductibility in 2022, and full expensing of capital equipment purchases began to phase out in 2023. In November, the PA Chamber joined a broad coalition in urging Congress to restore these pro-growth tax policies.
By restoring these provisions, the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act would empower employers to more easily navigate challenges, foster growth, and stay competitive, which would contribute to Pennsylvania’s (and the nation’s) economic resilience and prosperity.
A section-by-section breakdown of this legislation is available here.
On Friday, January 19th, the House Ways and Means Committee voted 40-3 to advance the legislation. It now awaits consideration by the full House.
###
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.
Why Treating All Employees As Leaders Can Benefit Your Company
- Empowering all employees can lead to a culture of innovation and creativity.
- Leaders at all levels of the organization can drive performance and results.
- Recognizing and rewarding leadership behavior can promote accountability and achievement.
- Empowered employees are more engaged and committed, leading to higher retention rates.
- Leadership development programs benefit the entire organization.
- Customizing training for each employee's role is key for effective leadership development.
- By treating all employees as leaders, companies can create an environment that encourages growth and drives success.
608 words ~ 2.5 min read
When it comes to building a strong, successful company, many business owners and organizations focus on cultivating the leadership skills of their top executives and managers. While this is certainly important, it's also crucial to recognize that every employee in your organization can be a leader in their own right. By treating all employees as leaders and giving them the support and resources they need to succeed, you can create a culture of innovation, collaboration, and growth that sets your company apart from the competition.
In this article, we'll explore the benefits of treating all employees as leaders and provide practical tips for developing leadership skills in your entire team.
Empowering All Employees Boosts Innovation and Creativity
When you give all employees a sense of ownership and responsibility within the organization, they are more likely to feel invested in the success of the company. This can lead to a culture of innovation and creativity, as employees feel empowered to take risks, try new things, and bring fresh ideas to the table. By tapping into the collective brainpower of your entire team, you can identify new opportunities, overcome challenges, and drive innovation in your industry.
As Wharton psychologist Adam Grant reminds business leaders, “Knowledge is best sought from experts, but creativity and wisdom can come from anywhere.”
Leaders Across the Organization Can Drive Performance and Results
When you cultivate leadership skills in all employees, you create a team of drivers who can help move the company forward. Leaders at all levels of the organization can inspire and motivate their peers, take ownership of their work, and constantly strive to improve their performance.
By recognizing, cultivating, and rewarding leadership at all levels of the organization, companies can increase accountability, promote a culture of achievement, and ultimately drive results. Executive coach and Inc. contributor Robin Camarote recommends recognizing and rewarding employees for leadership behavior, including “celebrating successes, highlighting contributions, and promoting individuals who demonstrate leadership potential.”
Empowering Employees Can Boost Employee Engagement and Retention
When employees feel valued and empowered, they are more likely to feel engaged and committed to the company. This, in turn, can boost employee satisfaction and retention rates. When employees feel that their contributions are making a difference and that they are part of something meaningful, they are more likely to stay with the company for the long haul.
Leadership Development Programs Benefit the Entire Organization
To effectively cultivate leadership skills in all employees, it's important to provide professional development and training opportunities. By creating leadership development programs that are accessible to all employees, you can help everyone in the organization improve their skills, increase their knowledge, and become more effective leaders.
Leadership development training should be specific to an employee’s role. One employee may need more skill training to support their career development. Another may need coaching and mentoring to support their management responsibilities. Employees are likely to know what they need, so when it comes to leadership training, including them in the conversation will increase buy-in and long-term results.
The Bottom Line
By treating all employees as leaders and providing them with the support and resources they need to succeed, you can build a company-wide culture of innovation, collaboration, and growth that sets your company apart. Empowering all employees can lead to breakthrough ideas, drive performance and results, boost employee engagement and retention, and benefit the entire organization through leadership development programs. By treating all employees as leaders, you can create an environment in which everyone is encouraged to think outside the box and pursue their full potential, ultimately driving the success of your company.
---
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.
Business Matters Hits Newsstands
Thanks again to our partner The Press Enterprise, the newest edition of Business Matters has officially hit newsstands (today)! Inside the edition, you'll see a recap of the last quarter's member news highlights, ribbon cuttings, events, and more. You'll also learn about upcoming programs and events, and business news that will impact your business in the coming months. Special thanks to Special Editions Editor Shawn Stair for another wonderful publication.
Member News – January 17, 2024
Focus Central PA hosting Forum
Focus Central PA will be hosting an Industrial Development Forum on March 13, 2024. The forum will be held at Commonwealth University- Bloomsburg. Learn more on their website and check out the flyer.
Service 1st Donates $220K to 55 Local Charities
Service 1st Federal Credit Union presented 55 non-profits across the region with donations just in time for the holidays, as part of its Magic of the Season charity initiative. Learn more.
Does your small business need a website?
Bucknell students will create websites for local businesses this semester in a Marketing and Design course in the Freeman College of Management. This web design project will provide a hands-on learning experience for students while also benefiting local organizations. Websites will be free of charge; with preference given to small local businesses and organizations with greater need for a free solution. Click to learn more and to apply by January 22nd, 2024.
Millville Area School District Triumphs in First Keystone Community Bank Fall Semester Challenge
Brighter Financial Futures (dba PennCFL) is proud to announce that Carson Bangs of Millville Area School District, who worked under the leadership of Jestine Myers, was a winner in its state investment challenge. The competitions are held in the classroom, both county-wide and state-wide. Bangs finished in first place for Columbia County and second place in the statewide competition in the Elementary Division. The program is sponsored by First Keystone Community Bank.
Columbia Montour AVTS Hosting Open House
Columbia-Montour AVTS will be hosting an Open House on Feb 4, 2024 from 1-4pm. They are recruiting businesses to come in and be present for a career fair for prospective students and parents. The event will be focused on the career opportunities that companies may have to offer for prospective students and parents to start thinking toward their future. To learn more contact Pamela Slusser, 570-784-8040 ext.3345 OR ar pslusser@cmvt.us.
Commonwealth University of PA Spring Career Expo
Join Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania (Mansfield, Lock Haven & Bloomsburg campuses) as they present a variety of boutique-style career expos this spring. Reach out Darwin Kysor at dkysor@commonwealthu.edu or call 570-484-2181.
Community Giving Foundation 2024 Grant Round is Now Open!
Community Giving Foundation is pleased to announce 2024 competitive grant rounds are now open. Grant rounds include opportunities through Berwick, Bloomsburg, Danville, Selinsgrove, and Sunbury affiliate foundations. The process opens January 2nd and closes February 29th. Learn more.
PCT Offering Spring Workforce Development Classes
Three levels of how to use Microsoft Excel are being offered this spring by the Pennsylvania College of Technology. Get full course descriptions and register here.
Commonwealth University offering CMA Training
Get trained to assist physicians with the administration of medications and with minor procedures, performing an EKG electrocardiogram,
obtaining laboratory specimens for testing, educating patients, and other related tasks. To get more information on the program here and to learn about scholarship opportunities here.
CMVB Quarterly Publication Out!
Check our the Columbia Montour Vistors Bureau's Quarterly publication.
Non-Profits Serving Columbia County Invited to Open House
The Partners and Tenants of The Hub at Mulberry are inviting non-profits serving Columbia County to an open house on February 1st from 4:30 - 6:30. The evening will include light hors d'oeuvres, tours, and the opportunity to learn how to utilize the facility. See invite.
Ballet Hispánico Returns to the Weis Center on Feb. 6
The Weis Center for the Performing Arts will welcome back NYC-based contemporary dance powerhouse Ballet Hispánico on Tuesday, Feb. 6 at 7:30 p.m. at the Weis Center. Learn more about the production here!
DCDC Celebrating 50 Years
Danville Child Developing Center will be hosting a 50th Anniversary Celebration on February 5th. Check out the invitation.
Teen Center Hosting Pasta Dinner Fundraiser
Teen Center of Berwick is hosting a Pasta Dinner Fundraiser on February 10th with 100% of the donations going towards the Orangeville Manor Veterans home. Click here to get all the details and register.
NonProfit Leadership Series Continues in February
Facilitated by the Community Giving Foundation and United Way Partners Addressing Burnout in the Non Profit Sector will be offered on February 22 1:00 - 4:00 at the Old Forge Brewing Company. Register Online for the Session by February 16th. This session is limited to 2 attendees per organization. If you have additional staff that would be interested in attending if capacity allows, you can add them to our waitlist by emailing ameyers-sanonu@csgiving.org.
Design Group has a New Hire
Design Group recently announced a new team member, Sydney, as a Human Resources Assistant in our Berwick, PA office. Please join us in welcoming Sydney!