Small Business Saturday: A Day to Support Local Retailers
Since 2011, the U.S. Small Business Association has sponsored Small Business Saturday. On this special day, consumers are motivated to shop small and give their support to local retailers. In Downtown Panama City, local businesses are hopeful that the construction won't deter shoppers. 1: Lesli Todd, the owner of Jute & Palm, expressed excitement as Small Business Saturday is their biggest day of the year. She emphasized the importance of people coming downtown to shop with the local small business owners in historic downtown. 2: Main Street Antiques owner Liane Harding also highlighted that all the businesses downtown are open, even with the road closure for the Streetscape. The sidewalks remain accessible, and they have even put a walkway between both sides of the road for easy crossing to other shops.Competing with Large Vendors
It is undeniable that local businesses face competition from large vendors like Amazon. However, there are unique things in historic downtown that can't be found on Amazon. Todd pointed out that people should shop local and support those who live in their community. 1: Harding added that it is easy to order online with a phone, but these small businesses depend on people coming in to shop. Especially during the holiday period when a good portion of their annual sales is made. 2: Shopping local keeps the dollars and cents within Bay County. Harding explained that all the money spent here goes back into the community as they spend it locally.Small Business Saturday Market
In addition to the shops downtown, a Small Business Saturday Market will take place at 2440 St. Andrew's Avenue at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday. This provides an extra opportunity for shoppers to explore and support local businesses. 1: The market offers a diverse range of products and experiences, allowing shoppers to discover new and unique items. 2: It is a great way to celebrate Small Business Saturday and connect with the local community while shopping for holiday gifts or just for fun.Unlock Your Potential with These Key Skills
Active Listening
Active listening is the cornerstone of effective communication. It means giving our full attention to the speaker, not just hearing the words but also understanding the emotions and intentions behind them. For example, in a team meeting, when a colleague presents an idea, active listening helps us to pick up on nuances and potential areas for improvement. This skill not only enhances our own understanding but also shows respect for others, fostering a collaborative work environment.
Imagine a situation where a client is expressing a concern. By actively listening, we can identify the root cause of the problem and offer more targeted solutions. It's about being present in the moment and showing that we value what the other person has to say. Active listening is a skill that can be developed and refined over time, and it has a profound impact on our professional relationships and achievements.
Thoughtful Consideration
Thoughtful consideration is about taking the time to analyze a situation from multiple angles before making a decision. It involves weighing the pros and cons, considering the impact on various stakeholders, and looking for innovative solutions. For instance, when faced with a complex business problem, a leader who engages in thoughtful consideration will explore different options and consider the long-term consequences.
An example of thoughtful consideration in action is when a company is considering a new investment. The decision-makers will look at factors such as market trends, financial projections, and the potential risks and rewards. By thinking deeply about these aspects, they can make more informed decisions that are likely to lead to better outcomes. Thoughtful consideration helps us to avoid hasty decisions and instead make choices that are based on careful analysis and a genuine understanding of the situation.
Understanding
Understanding is the glue that holds our professional lives together. It allows us to connect with others on a deeper level, empathize with their perspectives, and build trust. Whether it's understanding a client's needs, a team member's challenges, or the dynamics of a particular industry, understanding is what enables us to navigate complex situations with grace and effectiveness.
For example, in a multicultural workplace, understanding different cultures and values is crucial for building harmonious relationships and achieving common goals. It means being open-minded and willing to learn from others, and using that knowledge to create a more inclusive and collaborative environment. Understanding is a skill that expands our horizons and helps us to become more empathetic and effective leaders.
Best Resources for Aspiring Leaders
For those aspiring to leadership roles, there are several valuable resources available. One such resource is the podcast "Good Dirt: Conversations with Leaders in Real Estate & Beyond." This podcast offers insights and inspiration from leaders in various fields, sharing their experiences and wisdom. It's a great way to gain a broader perspective and learn from those who have already walked the path.
The book "Small Acts of Leadership" by G. Shawn Hunter is another essential read for aspiring leaders. It provides practical tips and strategies for making a positive impact in one's work and community. The author emphasizes the importance of small, everyday actions in building leadership skills and creating a culture of excellence.
Best Advice for New Leaders
New leaders often face unique challenges, and one of the best pieces of advice is to meet people where they are at. This means understanding the strengths and weaknesses of team members and working with them to help them grow. By embracing the differences among team members and finding ways to bridge those gaps, new leaders can create a more cohesive and productive team.
Another important aspect of being a new leader is to foster a culture of accountability and partnership. This means setting clear expectations and holding oneself and others accountable for meeting those expectations. At the same time, it's important to build strong partnerships with team members and stakeholders, working together towards common goals. By combining these two elements, new leaders can set the stage for success.
Recent Project Accomplishment
At Erland Construction, we are proud to have developed COLAB Solutions, a design/build program that has revolutionized the way we approach projects. This innovative program focuses on maximizing collaboration, cost efficiency, and speed to market. By bringing together different teams and disciplines early in the process, we are able to streamline the project delivery and ensure that all stakeholders are on the same page.
For example, in a recent commercial construction project, COLAB Solutions allowed us to collaborate closely with the architect, engineers, and contractors from the very beginning. This led to fewer design changes, reduced construction time, and lower costs. By delivering on our promises and exceeding expectations, we have set a new standard in the market and earned the trust of our clients.
Industry Leader Nominee
"Kyle brings a genuine passion for developing projects through a solutions-focused approach, rooted in strong partnerships that foster success for our clients, our team, and all project stakeholders. His commitment to excellence, paired with a thoughtful consideration for others’ needs, has made him a valuable asset to Erland." – Matt Combs, advanced technology/life sciences group manager, Erland Construction.
Kyle's leadership style is characterized by his ability to understand the unique needs of each project and team member. He is always looking for ways to improve and innovate, and his dedication to excellence is evident in everything he does. His strong partnerships with clients and team members have led to numerous successful projects, and his influence has extended beyond Erland Construction to the entire industry.