Missed a business strategy or article from our weekly update? We have created a new business resource page on our website to keep our top resources, tips and trainings in one place and will continue to update weekly. Check it out here!

Phase Two Possible Governor Kelly has said she will consider moving the state back to phase two of the reopening plan if cases do not decrease. She will make the determination next week with counties making the final determination on following the possible order. Even if an order is not placed, businesses are always encouraged to be creative in finding ways to meet customer & employee needs who might be concerned about being out in public. Let the Chamber know how we can help! Stay tuned on possible grants that may help your business with purchasing PPE or other ways to mitigate losses during COVID-10.

US Dept Labor issues additional guidance on FMLA and FFCRA The new guidance lists the latest in compliance requirements from employers as they relate not only to FLSA & FMLA but also the First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). It includes a FAQ on issues in all three laws. Read more here.

How to survive an OSHA Inspection COVID-19 has brought more scrutiny than even ever on safety in the workplace. The agency has indicated they will even be increasing inspections because of the recent challenges. Find out how more about the triggers, interviews, records and more to help your business in a review. Customer Appreciation Good customer and client appreciation improves customer loyalty. Check out these 10 simple client appreciation tips to get your business going.

What are your safety protocols? There are still many in our community hesitant to venture out unless they know every safety precaution is in place to protect them. Are you sharing what your business is doing to put safety first? Maybe your are offering disposable flatware instead of metal ones. Special cleaning protocols? Call ahead or curbside options? Whatever it is, share with your customers to keep them engaged an d spending with you! JOBS! Don't forget to post your jobs to our job board with your member log-in. Or you can send a ready to print flyer on your job opening and we can post it for you!

Steve Jobs Tip About Perseverance Finding ways to get through this challenge could mean the difference between succeeding or shutting the doors. Maintaining poise and capitalizing on opportunities are two importance concepts along with perseverance in the business world. Read more here.

Online Sales Webinar  Aug 4th @ 10am The Chamber has partnered with the SBDC to offer a webinar on creative ways to offer your products and services online through Facebook, your website, and other low cost options. Having options to reach your customers is a must. Free for Chamber members.

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Your Opportunity in this Challenge! We know the rest of the year is going to be rough for businesses, heck, it's already that way. And yes, we all say we are stronger together but we know you feel the burden as we do! "Heavy is the head that wears the crown". So how can you as a business encourage consumer confidence? We can inspire confidence in our future by sharing the good stories! Here are a few great stories we need to hear! New jobs: we are hiring is always a good sign! Switching gears: is your company changing things up to meet a different production demand? The frontline: share stories of your amazing front line workers Restructuring: how are you making sacrifices to ensure your employees are taking care of? People love hearing about supportive businesses. Overcoming: any challenge your company has faced but is overcoming is a beacon of hope. We encourage you to tell your good stories in your newsletters, social media sites and especially with the Chamber for our community newsletter.

Final Note... Armchair Quarterback In my community newsletter this week, I shared thoughts on the struggle with armchair quarterbacks. Too many want to tear down every decision and every leader in our community even though they are faced with impossible decisions. I think this is just as true for our business leaders. That doesn't mean you can't offer input or have questions. Absolutely, ask the tough questions by making the phone call or sending the email. Publicly scrutinizing on social media is not the place. Take a moment to thank those working hard to keep students safe, our businesses open, employees working and community thriving! And as always, my door is always open, my phone is always on. Sincerely, Candi Westbrook Executive Director

Have a topic you want us to research and share? What challenge or need do you have? Send us an email with your questions!