Growth-minded companies train everyone, not just the sales team, to understand the basics of selling. Every employee interaction with customers, partners, or community stakeholders can be a growth opportunity. Sales skills foster confidence, empathy, and better communication, which boosts performance across all roles. The payoff: stronger culture, deeper client loyalty, and measurable revenue growth. 574…
Surface-level connections are easy; strategic alliances take intention and trust. Real growth happens when relationships move beyond business card exchanges to shared outcomes. Leaders must invest time and purpose in building alliances that yield mutual value. Shift your networking mindset: think long-term, collaborate often, and build with integrity. Strategic alliances create doors, not just introductions.…
Blueprint 2035: Shaping South Carolina’s Economic Future South Carolina is at a pivotal point in its economic growth. With one of the fastest-growing populations in the nation and a thriving business community, our state has an opportunity to not just keep pace-but to lead. That’s the vision behind Blueprint 2035: A Roadmap for South Carolina’s…
Local sourcing brings speed, quality, and deeper connections. Being nearby means more control and faster problem-solving. Investing locally builds community goodwill and brand trust. Start small today-test one item with a local partner. 579 words ~ 3 min. read Sometimes the best way to grow your business isn’t about going bigger-it’s about going closer. More…
At YMCA Camp Cherokee, summer is more than a season-it’s a place where lifelong memories are made, leadership skills take root, and confidence grows. For Will “Happy” Gilmore, Executive Camp Director, ensuring those opportunities are accessible to every child-regardless of background-is both a professional mission and a personal calling. With nearly a decade at Camp…
Growth shouldn’t come at the cost of trust. Your best offers align with your values. Ethical, high-value offers strengthen customer loyalty and long-term revenue. The best sales strategy? Solving real problems for the right people, not selling everything to everyone. Design offers you would recommend to your best friend. That is the standard for lasting…
As Branch Manager of Nesbit Agencies Carolinas, Trey Griffy is leading with both purpose and performance. Since stepping into his leadership role in 2019, he has transformed the agency’s Southeast division-based in Fort Mill-into one of its strongest performers. Under Trey’s guidance, the office has seen a 285% increase in revenue, with a personal portfolio…
The Association of Leadership Programs (ALP) proudly recognizes Colleen Dick, Senior Vice President at the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce (SC), Jessica Stanford, Vice President of Leadership and Advocacy at the Midland Chamber of Commerce (TX), Linda Valdez Thompson, CEO of Valdez Thompson Consulting LLC (TX), Cathy Yen, Co-Founder and Facilitator at Community Connections Fund (IL), and Mike Zwiefelhofer, Executive Director…
Branding isn’t about size. It’s about clarity, consistency, and purpose. Small businesses with strong brands grow faster and retain more loyal customers. A brand is the promise you keep, not just the logo you use. Start with your story and values. Then build visual and verbal consistency. Every customer interaction should reinforce what makes you…
Caring for an aging parent is a significant undertaking, often placing immense emotional and physical strain on family caregivers. This burden can significantly impact their work life, leading to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and heightened stress levels. Understanding this challenge is crucial for employers seeking to support their employees and maintain a healthy, productive workforce.…