Leavenworth-Lansing Area
Chamber of Commerce
Dedicated to moving Leavenworth County Forward As One Community.
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Leavenworth-Lansing Area
Chamber of Commerce
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The start of a new year begs for reflection and plans. We make promises and resolutions and say things like, “This year will be THE year.” But unless you win the lottery, making this year radically different requires work and change. Those two things aren’t always easy or sustainable, especially when you’re looking at revenue goals, marketing plans, staffing realities, and that lingering question in the back of your mind: How do I grow without burning myself out? We have an easy answer to that question. If you’re a chamber member, there’s a good chance you aren’t making the most of your benefits. We get it. Life gets in the way. You’re busy. Maybe you attend an event here and there. You skim the emails. You tell yourself you’ll “use it more this year.” This is that year. Because chambers in 2026 aren’t just about ribbon cuttings and business cards. Chambers are quietly helping businesses solve real problems. Here are six ways to tap into that value in a strategic way that makes the most of your limited time. 1. Turn Visibility Into Credibility Marketing is noisy. Consumers are skeptical. Trust is currency. One of the most underrated benefits of your chamber is third-party credibility. When your business is featured in a chamber newsletter, social post, directory, or event spotlight, you’re borrowing trust that’s already been earned. You’re being seen in the right places and the “company you keep” has a great reputation. Make it a habit this year to say yes when your chamber asks for member features, testimonials, or spotlights. And if they don’t ask, raise your hand. Visibility compounds when it’s consistent. 2. Use Education to Stay Relevant (Without Going Back to School) You don’t need another generic webinar. You need insight that applies to your market, your customers, and your challenges. Chambers bring in experts on topics like AI, workforce trends, marketing shifts, local regulations, and leadership. The advantage is context. These sessions aren’t abstract. They’re grounded in what’s happening right outside your door. It’s difficult to get that anywhere else. Instead of chasing every online trend in 2026, choose one or two chamber programs that sharpen your skills where it matters most. Think of it as professional development without the fluff. 3. Leverage the Chamber as a Connector, Not a Crowd Networking doesn’t have to mean working the room like it’s speed dating. (Although feel free to do that if you enjoy it.) One of the smartest ways to use your chamber is behind the scenes. Staff and board members know who’s growing, who’s hiring, who’s struggling, and who’s looking for partnerships. If you need an introduction to a lender, vendor, collaborator, or even a future client, ask. Chambers exist to connect dots. You don’t have to draw the map alone. Intentional introductions outperform random handshakes every time. 4. Get a Seat at the Table Before Decisions Are Made Regulations, policies, zoning changes, and local initiatives don’t appear overnight. They’re discussed long before they’re decided. Your chamber tracks those conversations so you don’t have to. More importantly, they advocate for business voices to be included. Even if you never attend a council meeting, your membership helps ensure someone is asking, “How does this impact local employers?” That kind of representation is hard to quantify until you need it. Then it matters a lot. 5. Build Community, Not Just Contacts Business ownership can be isolating. If your social circle doesn’t include business owners, you can feel misunderstood. Chambers create space for peer-to-peer learning, shared challenges, and honest conversations. Sometimes the most valuable takeaway from an event isn’t a lead. It’s realizing you’re not the only one navigating a tough season or a big decision. Resilience comes from relationships as much as strategy. Use your chamber to build a community that supports you when things get complicated. 6. Think Long-Term, Not Transactional The biggest return on chamber membership rarely shows up in one month. People often expect instantaneous results, but there is action required. When your business becomes known from those actions (showing up, being a part of the conversations, etc.), people refer you without being asked. Opportunities come your way because you’re visible, involved, and trusted. Treat your chamber like a long-term growth partner, not a vending machine. Engage consistently. Show up where it makes sense. Use the resources already built for you. The New Year doesn’t have to be about doing more. Instead, you can use what you already have, better. Think of chamber membership like the wind. It’s blowing whether you harness it or not. But if you shift your sails slightly to leverage its power, you can go where you want to a lot faster. Learn More: 10 Ways to Get the Most From Your Chamber Membership Beyond the Mixer- Maximizing Your Chamber Membership Local Business Partnerships Strengthen Communities and Drive Growth Your Chamber Listing Matters More Than Ever
It’s almost Christmas and we’re in the home stretch to catch those last-minute shoppers, diners, and spenders. But how do you do it without sounding desperate. One word—help. No, we’re not talking about you bringing in more help (that’s a you question). We’re pointing out that people who aren’t finished with their list are now feeling the panic. And that’s when you can step in and make their lives easier. They’ll be relieved and will also remember how helpful you were when they were in the weeds. Plus, last-minute shoppers aren’t browsing. They’re mission-driven. They want fast wins and clear choices. If you can provide those, you’ve got the sale. If you meet them where they are, this week can quietly become one of your most profitable of the season. Here’s how to make the most of it without adding chaos to your already full days. Start with Gifts That Remove Decision Fatigue Last-minute shoppers don’t want options. That’s sooo November. They want answers. Create a short list of “grab-and-go” gifts that require no customization and minimal explanation. Think bestsellers, crowd-pleasers, or services that solve a real problem. Put them front and center in your space, both physically and online. If you can name it, price it, and say who it’s perfect for in one sentence, you’ve done your job. · “This is our most popular gift for teachers.” · “This is a safe and thoughtful choice.” · “This is a TikTok fave.” Clarity sells faster than creativity this week. Bundle What You Already Have You don’t need new inventory to create something that feels new. Bundles work because they do the thinking for the customer and increase your average sale at the same time. Pair complementary items. Add a small bonus that costs you little but feels intentional. Give it a name that makes sense in five seconds. The key is not perfection. It’s momentum. Thrive Causemetics does a great job of this on its social media ads. They package three products (mascara, eyeliner, eye shadow—which they call Eye Brightener™) under the “3-Step Signature Eye. 3 minutes. 3 products. 1 lifted eye look.” It makes shoppers confident that they can achieve a polished look in the very short time and have everything they need in just these three products. Remember this when putting together your packages. You’re not curating a museum exhibit. You’re helping someone finish their list and get home. Lean into Gift Cards, but Elevate Them Gift cards are last-minute saves, but only if they don’t feel like a cop-out. Many shoppers feel like gift cards are an impersonal gift. If you can make them feel otherwise, you can win big. If you sell gift cards, pair them with a simple suggestion. A card that says, “Perfect for a January reset” or “Best used on a day you need a break” instantly reframes it as thoughtful, not rushed. You can even post a funny sign like “Get a gift card. No one wants to look like a ‘pink nightmare.’ ” Or “It’s not a Jelly of the Month Club membership. They’ll actually appreciate this.” (Hat tip to those two classic Christmas movies.) If possible, offer a small incentive. A bonus value. A future perk. A gorgeous box or card. Even a handwritten note option goes a long way. You’re not selling plastic or a digital code. You’re selling relief and giving the recipient something they really want when they’re probably getting a lot they don’t. Create Urgency Without Panic Last-minute shoppers already feel behind. You don’t need flashing red lights. What you do need is clear timing. · “This is available through December 24.” · “Order by Thursday for pickup.” · “Last chance before we close for the holidays.” When people know the rules, they move faster. Uncertainty slows everything down. If you have extended hours, special pickup windows, or same-day availability, say it everywhere. In your window. At checkout. On social. In person. Make it easy for them to say yes now. Offer Experience-Based Gifts Stuff is easy. Experiences feel meaningful. If your business can offer lessons, sessions, tastings, classes, consultations, or events, this is your moment. These gifts work beautifully for people who already “have everything” and for shoppers who ran out of time but still want to show intention. Package the experience simply. Clear description. Clear value. Clear next step. Bonus: experiences often deliver revenue now and fulfillment later. That’s a January gift to yourself. Don’t Forget the People in Front of You One of the most overlooked revenue opportunities is the customer who is already standing in front of you. Train yourself and your team to mention relevant add-ons, upcoming specials, or gift options during checkout. Not as a pitch. As a reminder. “You know, a lot of people are grabbing one of these as a gift too.” “If you still need one more thing, this has been popular this week.” Your loyal customers already trust you. Help them solve one more problem while they’re there. Use Social Media Like a Signpost, not a Scrapbook This is not the week for poetic captions or long origin stories. Use your platforms to point clearly to what’s available right now. Show the product. Show the bundle. Show the gift card. Show the hours. Show the process. Short videos, quick photos, simple captions. Repetition is your friend. If someone scrolls past your post, they should instantly know: · What you sell. · Why it works as a gift. · How fast they can get it. That’s it. Add a Small “Thank You” Incentive A modest, well-timed incentive can tip a hesitant shopper into action. This doesn’t have to be a deep discount and probably shouldn’t be. Think small but specific. A bonus item. A future discount. A complimentary upgrade. Something that feels like appreciation, not clearance. Frame it as gratitude for shopping local and supporting a small business during the holidays. People want to feel good about where they spend their money. Let them. Remember, Last-Minute Doesn’t Mean Low Value These shoppers aren’t cheap. They’re busy. They’re willing to spend for convenience, clarity, and confidence. If you respect their time and remove friction, they’ll reward you for it. Take them out of the scramble mindset and simplify things. Make the path obvious. Make the choices easy. Make the experience calm. Help them finish strong, and you will too.
Small Business Season brings a beautiful rush or familiar faces and new customers. Your business is abuzz with activity and you’re doing the hard work. You’re showing up. And yet, you could be leaving opportunity on the table simply because life gets busy and marketing gets…well, pushed to the corner like a forgotten present in the back of the closet. That’s why when it comes to marketing, you need to go for the low-hanging fruit, the easy wins. Many businesses rely heavily on their email lists and that’s great. Those lists can be gold. But this time of year, inboxes are overflowing and it’s easy for even your most loyal customers to miss something. Here are five areas worth a gentle tune-up. These missed chances can deepen connection and spark repeat visits with very little effort. Treat Loyal Customers Like Insiders If someone chooses your business again and again, they’re not casual shoppers. They’re your people. Don’t rely on email alone to keep them updated. When they’re already in front of you, share what’s coming up. Something as simple as “By the way, we’re doing a holiday sip-and-shop next Thursday if you want to swing by” creates a moment of attention. Loyal customers love being in the know. Give them that moment. Don’t expect them to see every email. They’re as busy as you are during the holidays. A gentle reminder or heads up can ensure they make it to your next event or special. You have more than sales to gain by doing this (or lose if you don’t). If you’re hosting a big event (particularly one that will sell out), your most loyal customers may feel slighted if they don’t know about it until it’s too late. Telling them “you should’ve received an email” won’t make them happy if it’s something they wanted to attend and now it’s sold out. Post Your Specials Where People Actually Stand Storefronts are full of magic this time of year, but too often the only place a December deal exists is…in a newsletter or email. Add in-store signs, table toppers, checkout prompts, or a simple “What’s happening this week” board. Sure, some customers may forget the second they step into the parking lot. But many won’t. A quick snapshot of a sign or a note in their phone is all it takes to turn a one-time visit into a planned return. Make Your Social Feed a Living Bulletin Board People scroll while waiting in line. They scroll when they can’t sleep. They scroll when Aunt Linda starts talking politics. They’re scrolling even during the busiest time of year—especially during the busiest time of year. During the holiday season, don’t be shy about posting reminders, deals, behind-the-scenes teases, and event invitations. You’re not being repetitive. You’re helping your fans remember you in a noisy season. Create a Simple In-store “Highlight Moment” If someone discovers something delightful when they visit—whether it’s a staff favorite, a limited-edition item, or a seasonal service—give them a reason to mention it to a friend. A simple prompt like “Perfect for holiday gifting” or a tiny card explaining why it’s special creates a moment customers can repeat later. You’re giving them a story to share, and stories travel farther than coupons. Additionally, if you see someone hesitating on a purchase, surprise them with a discount on the spot. You can tell them Santa just informed you they were on the nice list and deserved a little something extra. If another customer overhears the offer, extend one to them too. A purchase is better than a stroll in and out of your store. You can also do this via text. Send them a message telling them you heard from Santa or they “won” is discount or bonus with purchase. The thrill of the surprise may bring them in. Invite the Next Step While They’re Still Smiling Small Business Season is full of warm exchanges: conversations at the register, compliments on décor, “I love this place” moments. Those are perfect openings to invite one more action. A follow-on step could be: • joining your text list for specials • grabbing a punch card • picking up a flyer for next week’s event • taking advantage of a “today only” add-on People are most receptive to engagement at the moment they’re enjoying your business. Use that natural goodwill. A Final Marketing Reminder The goal isn’t to cram more marketing into your December. We know you’re already busy. It’s to make the most of the interactions you already have. You’ve worked hard to bring customers through the door. A few small, thoughtful touches can turn those holiday visits into return trips long after the lights come down. If you have a special event, promotion, or sale coming up, let us know about it . We’d be happy to spread the word. Read More: 5 Customer-Focused Strategies to Build Loyalty and Drive Growth 9 Customer Loyalty Programs that Work Win at First Impressions
You spend a lot of time encouraging everyone else. Your customers. Your team. Your family. Even total strangers on social media. Today, it’s your turn. Before the year gets away from you, give yourself a gift that costs nothing and can pay off all year long: write a letter to yourself to read this time next year. Not a to-do list. Not a strategic plan. A pep talk. Think of it as sitting down with the future you, looking them in the eye, and saying, “Here is what mattered. Here is what I dream for you. And here is why you’re stronger than you remember.” Here is how to do it in a way that actually supports you as a business owner, not just adds one more thing to feel guilty about. Step 1: Start With Where You Are Right Now Before you talk about dreams, honor the reality. Where are you today in your business? Be honest and specific. You might write about: Revenue or customer growth New services you launched Systems you finally put in place Tough seasons you walked through or goals that remained in the either because they never materialized You do not have to dress it up to make it sound impressive. This letter is not marketing copy. Your competition won’t read it. It is a snapshot. You might write something like: “Right now, I am tired but hopeful. We got through a difficult quarter, but we also retained our best customers and improved our online reviews. I am nervous about cash flow and still figuring out staffing, but I can see how far we have come from a year ago.” This gives your future self context. A year from now, you will likely forget what this moment really felt like. The letter will remind you that you were doing your best with what you had. Step 2: Name What You’re Proud Of Business owners are experts at moving the goalposts. You reach one milestone and immediately focus on the next thing you haven’t done. Slow down here. List what you are proud of this year. This might include: A customer you went above and beyond for A risk you took, even if it did not turn out perfectly A boundary you set to protect your time or health A partnership you formed A new skill you learned If this feels uncomfortable, pretend you are writing about a friend. How would you describe what they achieved? Your future self will need this reminder. There will be days next year when you will wonder if you are making progress at all. Reading your own words about what you already accomplished can be powerful proof you are capable, resilient, and resourceful. Step 3: Talk About The Hard Things A good pep talk does not skip the hard parts. It acknowledges them and then points forward. In your letter, gently name your current challenges. Staffing, supply chain, energy, pricing, burnout, uncertainty, or simply the pressure of wearing every hat at once. Then, write to your future self with compassion: “ If you are reading this and still facing some of these same issues, that does not mean you have failed. It means these are real, complex challenges. You are allowed to grow at a human pace.” You are not predicting disaster. You are promising yourself grace. That is fuel, not fluff. Step 4: Cast A Vision For Who You’re Becoming Now shift from where you are to where you want to be. Think about this time next year. What would you love to be true about: How you show up as a leader? How your business feels day to day? How much time you have for your life outside of work? The kind of clients or customers you attract? The way your business contributes to your community? Write in the present tense, as if it is already happening: “You are more confident delegating. The business is less chaotic and more goal-driven. You have a clearer sense of which opportunities to say yes to and which to politely decline. ” This is not magical thinking. It is a quiet nudge to your brain: this is the direction we are headed. Step 5: Give Yourself Instructions For Tough Days Every business has days that make you question everything. Use your letter to speak to that future version of you. You might include: A reminder of why you started A story of a customer you helped A phrase that always steadies you Permission to rest without guilt For example : “ When you feel like quitting, remember the customer who said, ‘You made my day.’ Remember that the work you do matters here, in this town, with these people. Take a day off if you need it. The world can wait 24 hours.” Future you will be grateful you took the time to write that. Step 6: Seal It And Set A Reminder When you are done, put the letter somewhere safe. If you write it by hand, seal it in an envelope and label it: “Open December 2026.” If you type it, save the file with a clear name and set a calendar reminder to open it. If six months from now, you’re having a tough day and need a pep talk, open it then. But write yourself another one. Why This Matters For Your Business Running a small business is demanding. You are constantly pushed to plan for the future: next quarter, next campaign, next season. It is easy to lose sight of the person at the center of it all—you. Writing this letter is a simple practice that: Grounds you in what you have already accomplished Clarifies what you want more of (and less of) Reconnects you to your “why” when things get noisy Offers your future self encouragement from the one person who truly understands Your business is part of the fabric of the community. When you are strengthened, focused, and supported, everyone benefits. So, sometime this week, give yourself 20-30 quiet minutes. Pour a cup of something warm. Put your phone in another room. And write the pep talk you will be glad to read a year from now. Your future self is already cheering for you. This letter is your chance to cheer back. ------------------ Christina Metcalf is a writer and women’s speaker who believes in the power of story. She works with small businesses, chambers of commerce, and business professionals who want to make an impression and grow a loyal customer/member base. She is the author of The Glinda Principle , rediscovering the magic within. _______________________________________ Facebook: @metcalfwriting Instagram: @christinametcalfauthor LinkedIn: @christinametcalf5
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