The Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to open up nominations for our 2025 Heart of Grain Valley Awards. Nominations for each of our five categories (Business of the Year, Business Person of the Year, Emerging Business of the Year, Heart of Grain Valley (volunteer/nonprofit), and Unsung Hero) will be accepted January 14, 2025 - February 19, 2025. Businesses and organizations nominated must be located within the boundaries of the Grain Valley Schools; individuals nominated must either reside in Grain Valley or work for a business or organization located within school district boundaries. Individuals and businesses/organizations who were awarded Heart of Grain Valley Awards the prior year will not be considered for three years. 

The top three nominees in each category will be presented to a volunteer panel for voting and the winners will be announced at the Heart of Grain Valley Awards Celebration on Friday, April 4th at Valley Moments in downtown Grain Valley. The top three nominees in each category will be featured at the event and in print, video, and social media posts prior to the event. 
Questions? Email: info@growgrainvalley.org. 

Nominate online today at https://forms.gle/AGNfkihSBeQiocaZ9. 

from Missouri Chamber of Commerce News

The 2024 legislative session was largely an exercise in futility, with lawmakers sending just 28 non-appropriations bills to Gov. Mike Parson’s desk. Political chaos stalled key business priorities, including child care tax credit legislation.

The new year, though, brings new opportunity.

“We believe the recent elections have provided a window of opportunity to accelerate change in a positive way,” said Kara Corches, president and CEO of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “Now is the time to make sure the voice of the business community is heard loud and clear.”   

The Missouri Chamber has released a complete legislative agenda to help guide policy discussions during the 2025 legislative session. Prepared with input from top business leaders from across the state, this aggressive agenda contains recommendations for growing business and the economy.

In 2025, the Missouri Chamber urges lawmakers to focus on five critical needs:

1. Increasing access to safe, affordable, high-quality child care for employees and businesses;
2. Addressing Missouri’s rising crime rate and improving public safety;
3. Ensuring Missouri develops adequate energy generation, which is a necessity for economic growth;
4. Providing safeguards and clarity for business owners as Proposition A takes effect; and
5. Defending against government overreach and job-killing business mandates.

CHILD CARE

According to a recent report from United WE and the University of Missouri, there are nearly three times as many Missouri children (aged 6 or under) as there are child care slots.

During the past two legislative sessions, the Missouri Chamber sought to address this problem through an innovative tax credit package which would increase the capacity of child care providers and help businesses offer child care benefits to support the retention and recruitment of employees. A small group of legislators ultimately blocked the bill from passing, despite widespread bipartisan support for the legislation.

The Missouri Chamber remains committed to passing this legislation because child care is not a working parents’ issue; it’s an economic issue.

“Missouri can become a national leader in addressing this crisis by passing this legislative package,” Corches said. “Our state’s child care network is critical infrastructure. We must do everything we can to bolster this infrastructure that serves as the backbone for all industries.”

PUBLIC SAFETY

In the Missouri Chamber’s most recent CEO Survey, 90 percent of business leaders said public safety was a top concern or a growing concern.

For this reason, improving public safety will continue to be a top priority for the Missouri Chamber in 2025, with a focus on addressing retail theft, bolstering our law enforcement workforce and supporting fair chance hiring.

“Crime is impacting our state’s economic competitiveness,” Corches said. “It deters employees from moving to Missouri, and it stops businesses from expanding or opening new locations here. While we’ve made some progress in this arena, crime is a complex, multi-faceted issue. We will continue to advocate for legislative action that aligns with the recommendations in our ‘Safer Missouri, Stronger Missouri’ report.”

ENERGY

Reliable, resilient and affordable energy is essential to retaining and attracting business to our state.

The Missouri Chamber supports efforts to proactively address Missouri’s aging infrastructure while ensuring natural gas, propane and electricity remain reliable and rates remain affordable for consumers. During the upcoming session, the Missouri Chamber will advocate to enhance Missouri’s energy generation capacity to support economic growth.

“We need to make sure our grid has the capacity to support current and future demand,” Corches said. “Missouri must prioritize capacity building by reducing the red tape on utilities and incentivizing energy generation. Many states across the nation are working on policies to enhance grid capacity. Energy powers our economy, so we need to competitively position our state.”

PROPOSITION A

In November, Missouri voters passed Proposition A, a ballot measure that will increase Missouri’s minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2026 and require employers to provide paid sick leave to employees.

This new mandate has caused confusion for employers, and the Missouri Chamber is asking legislators to clarify in statute business owners’ rights and responsibilities regarding the new law.

“Every day, we hear from business owners who are confused and concerned over this new mandate,” Corches said. “We will be advocating on their behalf to ensure our business climate is not adversely impacted by Proposition A’s implementation.”

DEFENSE AGAINST GOVERNMENT OVERREACH

In recent years, the Missouri Chamber has spent much of its time fighting to keep job-killing business mandates from passing.

The Missouri Chamber will continue to oppose bills aimed at undermining employers’ right to set their own workplace policies on issues ranging from vaccination to accepting gold and silver as forms of payment.

“Employers’ freedom to set their own policies and procedures is a bedrock on which our free enterprise system is built,” Corches said. “Our position remains the same: Let business decide.”

To see the full Missouri Chamber’s full 2025 legislative agenda, click here.

The new year often brings a renewed focus on fresh starts and improved efficiency. Many of us are wondering how we might earn more, be more productive, and enjoy a better work/life balance. But as you’re committing to goals for the new year, consider that what your business may need is some decluttering. It’s time to channel your inner Marie Kondo and tackle not just physical spaces, but also digital files, outdated processes, and even stagnant strategies.

Just like a cluttered home can lead to stress and lost productivity, a cluttered business environment can hinder growth and innovation. 

Here's how you can embrace decluttering for a more successful year:

Tidy the Physical Workspace

This is not a slam on people who enjoy visual chaos (like me), but if you can’t locate the basic things you need, it might be time for a new system.

Consider how you might:

• Clear the clutter: Dispose of or donate old equipment, unused supplies, and stacks of paper.
• Optimize layouts: Reorganize workspaces to improve flow and encourage collaboration or easy access.
• Embrace minimalism: A clean, minimalist aesthetic can reduce distractions and boost focus.

Digital Detox

We’re not suggesting you give up your electronics, but isn’t it time your efficiency tools actually work for you?

You can do this through:

• Organizing digital files: How many times have you not been able to find something in your email or files? Hey, it happens to the best of us. That’s why you need to implement and commit to a clear and consistent file-naming system (preferably something in the Cloud) and archive or delete outdated documents.
• Streamline your inbox: Unsubscribe from unnecessary emails (Gmail and Yahoo make that really easy), utilize filters, and adopt inbox zero practices.
• Update software and hardware: Ensure all technology is up-to-date and functioning optimally.
• Research new options. Pick your slowest day and do some quick YouTube research on efficiency tools or Google plug-ins. You can learn a lot in only a few minutes and there’s likely a way to use tools to streamline your current processes. But if you’re waiting for a golden ticket from these software or app companies, it’s unlikely you’ll get one. Just as you may need to perform continuing education or professional development activities each year, take it upon yourself to keep an eye on tech and the digital world. Speaking of…

Streamline Processes

You can’t make more hours in the day so maximize what you currently have by:

• Identifying bottlenecks: Analyze workflows to pinpoint areas of inefficiency.
• Automate tasks: Utilize technology (like AI or conditional software that helps you create “if, then” pathways) to automate repetitive tasks and free up employee time.
• Eliminate unnecessary meetings: Encourage shorter, more focused meetings with clear agendas. It doesn’t take long to develop a reputation of being a time waster and your employees, vendors, and stakeholders will do everything they can to get out of your meetings. If people opt out, just how effective are the meetings anyway?

Revisit Your Strategy

If you find yourself saying things like, “But it always worked before,” then it might just be time to:

• Reassess goals: Ensure your business goals are still relevant and aligned with your overall vision.
• Eliminate stagnant projects: Don't be afraid to cut your losses on projects that are no longer serving your business. Just because you’ve spent a lot of time, focus, or money on something does not mean you should continue to do so.
• Identify new opportunities: Create space for fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.

Go All In and Foster a Culture of Decluttering

The new year is an ideal time for early spring cleaning. Out with the old, in with the new. After all, if you can’t make room for new opportunities, you’ll be left with the old ones.

• ·         Encouraging employee participation: Provide training and resources to help employees declutter their own workspaces and workflows. Encourage managers to find out what the greatest obstacles to their direct reports’ success are.
• ·         Celebrating successes: Recognize and reward efforts to improve efficiency and productivity.

• Making decluttering a continuous process: Schedule regular decluttering sessions to maintain a clean and organized work environment. Again, remember it’s not all about papers on a desk. There are many ways our work lives get cluttered but all of them eventually lead to breakdowns and inefficiencies.

By embracing these decluttering strategies, you can create a more focused, efficient, and ultimately, more successful business. After all, every garden needs room to grow. Your business does too.

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.

_______________________________________

Medium: @christinametcalf

Facebook: @tellyourstorygetemtalking

Instagram: @christinametcalfauthor

LinkedIn: @christinagsmith

It feels like articles about holiday spending in recent years have all started with the same intro—costs are up, consumers are looking for value. While this year is no different, there are a few parts of the consumer landscape that present a unique set of challenges for small businesses.

According to the latest BizInsure holiday spending survey, there are a couple of things you should be doing to adapt and thrive this Small Business Season.

The 2024 Holiday Shopper: Budget-Conscious and Practical

Forget extravagant gifts and lavish travel plans. This year, it's all about essentials and value. Consumers are feeling the pinch of inflation (again or still, depending on how you look at it) so it’s no surprise they are prioritizing practical purchases.

Here's how your small business can cater to this mindset:

• Position Your Products as "Must-Haves." Communicate the value and practicality of your offerings. Highlight durability, functionality, and how your products solve everyday problems. Don’t assume it’s obvious and they’ll know. Spell it out for them.
• Embrace the Power of Bundling: Create attractive gift bundles at various price points, combining essential items that offer value and convenience for the shopper.
• Promote Gift Cards with a Personal Touch: Gift cards remain a holiday favorite. Offer beautifully designed cards (or gift boxes), perhaps with personalized messages or small add-ons to make them extra special.

Winning Over the Younger Generation

While overall trends point toward practicality, Gen Z shows a stronger inclination toward experiences and supporting small businesses.

Capitalize on this by:

• Creating Memorable In-Store Experiences: Transform your shop into a festive destination with interactive workshops, personalized consultations, or holiday-themed events that resonate with younger shoppers. Make it Insta worthy.
• Collaborating with Gen Z Influencers: Leverage the power of social media by partnering with relevant influencers who can authentically showcase your products and brand to their audience. Don’t know an influencer? How about a loyal Gen Z customer? Give them a reason to talk about you and share their experience.
• Thinking Outside the "Experience" Box: Even if your business doesn't sell experiences directly, find creative ways to incorporate them. A bookstore could host author readings, or a home goods store could offer decorating workshops.

Leveling the Playing Field with Retail Giants

Large retailers are often thought of as more convenient and less expensive. That’s why you have to change the conversation from dollars to value. When it comes to gifts do shoppers really want to give the cheapest gift or do they want to get the most value for their money? If it’s the latter (after all, who wants to be the cheapo) then you want patrons to know how shopping with you is more valuable. Ideas include:

• Offering Unmatched Customer Service. No large box store offers personalized attention, expert advice and product knowledge, gift wrapping, and a genuinely warm and welcoming atmosphere like a local business. Big-box stores simply can't replicate that.
• Boosting Your Online Presence. Ensure your website and social media channels are top-notch. Use compelling images and descriptions. Ensure you have a seamless online ordering process.
• Providing Competitive Shipping and Delivery: While you may not have Amazon's logistics network, offer reliable and affordable shipping options, including in-store pickup or local delivery services. You don’t want inconvenience to be a justification for not shopping with you.

Harnessing the Strength of Community

This holiday season, community matters more than ever. Don’t discount its power. People are enjoying and feeling good about supporting local. Here’s how you can be an even bigger part of the community:

• Join Forces with Fellow Small Businesses: Collaborate on joint promotions, cross-promote each other's products, or participate in local holiday markets to expand your reach and create a sense of community spirit.
• Give Back Through Charitable Partnerships: Partner with a local charity to donate a portion of your holiday sales. This not only benefits a worthy cause but also enhances your brand image and resonates with socially conscious consumers. If you sell something that I child would be interested in, give a discount to those who are purchasing for an Angel Tree or a toy collection program. Let the nonprofit community know you’re doing that, and they may give you a shout out and direct some people your way.
• Nurture Customer Relationships: Actively engage with your customers through social media, email newsletters, and personalized in-store interactions to build lasting relationships and foster loyalty. Listen on social media and in online communities for people asking for gift ideas.

 

Don't Overlook the Holiday Essentials

Finally, remember the tried-and-true tactics that always contribute to a successful holiday season:

• Running Festive Promotions and Discounts. We could all use those right now.
• Extending Shopping Hours. Cater to busy shoppers by offering extended hours or special shopping events during evenings and weekends, making it more convenient for them to visit your store.
• Creating a Welcoming In-Store Environment: Ensure your store is well-stocked, neatly organized, and festively decorated to create a positive and enjoyable shopping experience.

You don’t have to convince people you are the cheapest store on the block. You just have to give them a reason to want to buy from you and that comes out of festive experiences and good value.

To register as either a candy vendor or for the window decorating contest, visit Civic Review - Permit & Licensing Software. 

The Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce proudly announces the launch of the 2025 National Civics Bee®, an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Hosted in partnership with The Civic Trust® of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition in Grain Valley will inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions. 

Middle school students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade from public, private, charter, and home schools are invited to take part in the first-round civics essay competition. After a distinguished panel of judges review the essays, the top 20 students will be selected to advance to their local competition: an in-person live event featuring two rounds of civics questions followed by a Q&A round to test their civics knowledge. The Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce will host its local competition in the spring of 2025. The local finalists and top winners will receive various prizes, including prizes worth at least $500 for the first-place student.

Participants in the National Civics Bee® will have the chance to gain recognition for their civics knowledge and skills and compete for prestigious prizes throughout the competition. The competition enables students to explore issues that matter to their communities, furthering their understanding of civic engagement and fostering responsible citizenship. Winners from each of the local competitions across Missouri will be invited to take part in the state finals. The first-place winner of the state finals will receive a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete for prizes worth at least $50,000 during the national championship in the Fall of 2025.

 “Informed and active citizens are the cornerstone of a strong community, economy, and workforce. The Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to host the National Civics Bee® to promote greater civic knowledge in Missouri,” Cory Unrein, Director of Business Development for the Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce said.

“Fostering a deep understanding of civics and government among our young students is critical to the vibrancy of democracy and civic life in America. The National Civics Bee® provides a unique platform for them to not only showcase their knowledge but also become active and engaged citizens of the future,” Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation said.

For more information on entering the National Civics Bee® in Missouri, visit: Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce - National Civics Bee (growgrainvalley.org) or nationalcivicsbee.org.  

For interview requests or additional information, please contact info@growgrainvalley.org.

About National Civics Bee®

The National Civics Bee®, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s The Civic Trust®, is an annual nonpartisan competition aimed at improving civics education and literacy among middle school students, their families, and communities. The National Civics Bee® helps elevate civics as a national priority through a network of state and local chambers across the country. The National Civics Bee® is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, Citizen Travelers, and other funders.

If you want to remain top-of-mind with your customers (as well as nurture people who are interested in your business, but not yet buying from you), you need to be able to stay in touch. While social media may seem like a good first step, you’re limited in how often your audience sees your posts. And you’re not in control of the algorithms that impact that so…

You need to start building your email list. With a list, you can stay in touch and remain top-of-mind by sending newsletters, discount coupons, information on events, and specials. You’re more likely to be able to bring customers in the door with a strong list and it also gives them something to talk about and circulate among their friends. Plus, 92% of online adults use email regularly (not sure what the other 8% are doing when they’re online but whatever). And you don’t have to worry about the “social media powers that be” keeping your messaging from those you want to see it.

There are many ways to build a list. To capture online emails, you simply offer something of value (video, course, checklist, or other exclusive content) in exchange for an email. You’ll also want to be clear that they will hear from you on occasion. Make sure you give them the option to opt-out as well.

But how do you build your email list outside of a lead magnet?

25 Ways to Build an Awesome Email List

1.      Host webinars or courses.
2.      Run contests or giveaways. Incentivize sign-ups by offering prizes relevant to your target audience.
3.      Include sign-up forms on your website. Make it easy for visitors to subscribe on high-traffic spots like your homepage, blog posts, and landing pages.
4.      Promote your email list on social media. Encourage followers to sign up for exclusive content or updates. Let them know what they’ll receive. Discounts are a top motivator for sign-ups.
5.      Run targeted ads. Use social media advertising platforms to reach a specific audience and promote your email list sign-up.
6.      Add a sign-up form to your email signature.
7.      Offer referral bonuses. Encourage existing subscribers to spread the word by offering rewards for referrals.
8.      Run exit-intent popups. These popups appear when a visitor looks like they’re about to leave your website. Offer a last-minute incentive to subscribe.
9.      Partner with other businesses. Cross-promote your email lists with businesses that complement your offerings.
10. Host Q&A sessions or live chats. Offer valuable interaction and require email sign-up to participate.
11. Run interactive polls or surveys. Gather valuable data while building your email list. If results would appeal to your audience, offer to send them the conclusions for their email.
12. Offer free trials or consultations. Capture leads interested in your paid services.
13. Repurpose content into email newsletters. Provide ongoing value to keep subscribers engaged.
14. Offer a challenge. These can be live videos or pre-recorded content, or emails sent daily. Length of challenges can vary so get creative.
15. Run interactive content like quizzes or games.
16. Offer loyalty programs or rewards. Give subscribers points or discounts for signing up and taking specific actions (e.g., opening emails, referring friends).
17. Utilize offline methods. Collect email addresses at events, trade shows, or through in-person interactions.
18. Use a QR code. If you have a brick-and-mortar business, place a QR code next to your register that directs to a VIP customer list they can join. Give a discount on their next purchase for signing up.
19. Retarget website visitors. Use website retargeting ads to remind visitors who haven't subscribed yet about your valuable content and email list.
20. Create a CTA. Add a call-to-action to join your email list wherever you’re giving value such as blog posts, newsletters, videos, etc.
21. Leaving comments. While I’m not a big fan of this one, if you have an engaged and vocal audience, you can require an email address to leave comments on your blog.
22. Write for a third-party. Reach a bigger audience by writing for LinkedIn or Medium. Make sure you add a call-to-action to join your email list.
23. Tease content. Just as trailers for movies whet a moviegoer’s appetite to see the upcoming film, post small bits of content with “read more” links to see the entire article for the price of an email. Many newspapers have adopted this strategy.
24. Create a game. The New York Times has cashed in big on this approach. Want to know how you did against the Wordle Bot? You’re going to pay for that with your email (and a few dollars).
25. Guest blog. Write for someone else and add a CTA to join your newsletter to stay in touch.

If you want to increase sales, you need to find a way to stay top-of-mind with your audience. An email list is one of the strongest, most versatile ways to do this. Your audience’s preferences on offers may vary so try several of these strategies and you’ll see subscribers (and sales) grow.

Christina Metcalf is a writer/ghostwriter 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 loves road trips, hates exclamation points, and is currently reading three books at once.

_______________________________________

Medium: @christinametcalf

Facebook: @tellyourstorygetemtalking

Instagram: @christinametcalfauthor

LinkedIn: @christinagsmith

by Addie Rainbolt, GVCC Marketing Intern

Royer Funeral Home has three locations: Grain Valley, Oak Grove and Royer’s New Salem in Independence.

Ashley Fulford, Royer Funeral Home’s after care specialist, community engagement liaison and funeral director apprentice, said Royer Funeral Home has been offering a tradition of caring for 65 years.

Royer Funeral Home is family owned, Fulford said, which helps assure clients their loved ones are being cared for like family.

The funeral director staff travel between the three locations, Fulford said, depending on the family’s needs.

Royer Funeral Home also offers cremation services, Fulford said, which is “really nice because we can provide all that care in-house with our own crematory that we run and operate.”

All care Royer Funeral Home provides is done with sincerity. Fulford explains, “there’s just so much purpose around being able to care for someone’s loved ones in those last moments so they can say goodbye the way they need to.”

Although everyone is going to need funeral services at some point, Fulford said, Royer Funeral Home wants to begin and continue their relationship with the community outside of these services.

Royer Funeral Home initiates these relationships with the aftercare program and intentional community involvement.

Some of Royer's recent community outreach events include The Memorial Rock Garden Picnic, a “Don’t Dread, Plan Ahead” Q and A panel, the Remembrance Tree Lighting Ceremony, and a graveside wreath making workshop.

This year, Royer Funeral Home will host two Remembrance Tree Lighting Ceremonies, one in Grain Valley and one in Oak Grove. Royer Funeral Home will also host another “Don’t Dread, Plan Ahead” Q and A panel and Memorial Rock Garden Picnic next year.

Royer Funeral Home also wants to carry on the legacies of loved ones, Fulford said. “When someone passes away, you don’t want that to be the end. You want their legacy to continue.”

Intentionally creating and maintaining a relationship with the community helps accomplish this, too, Fulford said, because “your loved one lives on through you.” 

Website: http://royerfuneralhome.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Royer-Funeral-Home/390956508050565

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/royerfuneralhome/

Ashley Fulford, after care specialist, community engagement liaison and funeral director apprentice, and Funeral Director Chris Reynolds are committed to providing dignified, respectful, and compassionate assistance to families in their time of need. Photo credit: Cory Unrein, GVCC

Photo credit: Addie Rainbolt, GVCC Marketing Intern 

If you are in a client services business (especially one where your clients might return over and over), one of the best things you can do to set yourself up for success is to understand who you want to work with and who aligns with your skills and talent.  

If you’re just starting off, or you’ve fallen on hard times, it’s tempting to work with anyone and everyone. But you’ll end up sabotaging yourself in the long run when you choose to work with the “wrong” clients.

After all, there are limited hours in the workday. If you’re plugging just anyone into those spots, there may not be room for the clients that you find the most desirable.

Why Do I Need an Ideal Client?

There are two reasons you should get very clear on who your ideal client is—knowing who they are makes them easier to target from a marketing perspective and you’ll be more satisfied with your business in the long run.

But how do you know who your ideal client is? Isn’t your ideal client anyone who can pay?

Hardly.

Yes, you want someone who can pay but that shouldn’t be your only criteria. It’s important to understand how to identify the people you work best with.

Part of that is defined by the nature of your business or industry. But part of it is also how you want to shape your business.

First, ask yourself the following questions to understand your ideal customer. They may not all apply to your type of business, but they are a good start. Then use your answers to adjust your marketing and design a customer questionnaire to ensure you’re working with people who are a good fit for the kind of business you want to have.

15+ Questions to Ask Yourself to Identify Your Ideal Clients

While it’s tempting to work with “just anyone,” you will be more efficient, happier, less prone to burnout, and more passionate about your business if you are selective with your clients.

Ask yourself:

• 1.      What kind of industries or products align with my interests/values? Conversely, what do I not support or have interest in?
• 2.      What kinds of projects take my professional growth in the direction I’m most interested in?
• 3.      What kind of communication mediums do I enjoy? (If you have a specific client possibility in mind, pay attention to their communication frequency.) Does their style align with mine?
• 4.      What level of creative freedom do I prefer? Do I want to co-create or create alone?
• 5.      How do I feel about being micromanaged? Will I market myself as an expert or an assistant?
• 6.      How flexible am I with what I charge? Am I open to customizable projects or just specific services as laid out in my offerings?
• 7.      Do I want to be on retainer with a few clients who control my schedule or have many clients and the freedom in my own scheduling?
• 8.      Do I prefer working independently or collaboratively? Do I thrive when leading a project solo, or do I enjoy the energy and shared responsibility of a team?
• 9.      What level of responsibility do I enjoy? Do I want to check-in and get sign-offs or only on final deliverables?
• 10. What types of tasks energize me? Do I enjoy the creative aspects of brainstorming and ideation, the detail-oriented work of implementation, or the analytical challenge of problem-solving?
• 11. What types of projects align with my skills and interests? Do I want to do, teach, or consult?
• 12. Do I excel in projects that require strong communication, technical expertise, or creative vision?
• 13. What is my preferred pace of work? Short quick projects/deliverables or longer ongoing projects? Do I thrive under pressure and tight deadlines, or do I prefer a more steady and predictable workload?
• 14. What environment do I like to work in? On-site, at home, or the freedom to do either?
• 15. Is there a demographic I love? For instance, maybe you like to work with new business owners in their 30s because you understand their motivations and you feel invested in the outcomes.

If you take the time to understand your ideal client, you will be much more satisfied in the long run. There are many people in the world you can help but when you find that ideal demographic, your work will be even more rewarding, and your clients will feel it too.

Christina Metcalf is a writer/ghostwriter 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 loves road trips, hates exclamation points, and loves her clients.

_______________________________________

Medium: @christinametcalf

Facebook: @tellyourstorygetemtalking

Instagram: @christinametcalfauthor

LinkedIn: @christinagsmith

by Addie Rainbolt, Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce Marketing Intern

Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC is an American Family Insurance agency in Grain Valley.

Alyssa Scholl, agency owner, said American Family Insurance provides auto, home, business, health, and life insurance, so essentially “anything you need to protect.”

Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC is licensed in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Ohio, Scholl said, and has been open for three years.

While Scholl was originally located in Independence, she said, “I wanted to move into a community that was growing and booming, and Grain Valley was the place to be.”

Scholl said she grew up in Blue Springs and has enjoyed watching Grain Valley grow and prosper. Now that she is located in the heart of Grain Valley, Scholl said she has gotten to experience this growth first hand.

When deciding to move to Grain Valley, Scholl said she believed she “could leave a bigger impact in a smaller community” because small-towns do not typically have very many local resources. Scholl hoped to become one of these local resources.

Scholl said the biggest goal of moving Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC to Grain Valley was to get involved in the community.

Scholl said Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC is unique from other insurance providers because they have a small staff. A smaller staff allows Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC to be more personable with customers and involved in the community.

Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC strives to provide excellent customer service so each customer feels valued, Scholl said.

“We’re not just an 1-800 number,” Scholl said; customers “are more than welcome to come in, we can go out to them, we’ll take phone calls,” or whatever is required to make them feel valued.

“Because we are so small,” Scholl said, “we do know a lot of our customers” outside of the office setting. Moreover, Scholl said, “They know us, they know our life stories.” Getting to provide them with insurance simply allows Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC staff to further their friendships with customers and fellow community members.

People are more than customers, Scholl said, “they are somebody that matters to us.”

“I’ve always been one to help people in times of need and typically when people are calling us for insurance reasons, it’s not always a pleasant phone call,” Scholl said. So, Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC wants to be the calm in the storm for those customers.

According to Scholl, most people do not typically think about their insurance until they need it; however, “when those catastrophes do strike, customers want to know that we’re here for them.”

Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC. being local “gives people a sense of peace,” Scholl claimed. “We want to be sure we can provide that to customers when they do have something happen.”

Additionally, because community involvement was Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC’s driving force of moving to Grain Valley, Scholl said they are intentional about their activity.

Their recent community involvement includes sponsoring First Fridays, the Grain Valley Fair, and supporting activities at Grain Valley High School.

Ultimately, Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC is “really big on giving back” and “helping out,” Scholl said.

Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC is located at 115 SW Eagles Pkwy. Its operating hours are Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 

Website: https://www.amfam.com/agents/missouri/grain-valley/alyssa-scholl

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alyssaschollAMFAM