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Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
AUGUST 2019
PLATINUM MEMBERS
2019 Executive
2019 Board
Board of Directors
of Directors
Randy Ostrander President Lake and Lodge Realty, LLC Michelle Barker President Elect Bridge Title Jeff Godfrey, Member At Large Spectrum Health
GOLD MEMBERS
Connie Koepke Mecosta County Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
SILVER MEMBERS
Heather Bowman City of Big Rapids Kasey Pressley Hampton Inn of Big Rapids
Mindy Taylor,
Josh Pyles
Treasurer
Downtown Business Association
LEADING BUSINESSES, LEADING COMMUNITIES For information on becoming a member of the Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce, please contact us.
Mecosta County
SOCIAL NETWORKING
Danette Doyle The Pioneer Group
Stay connected by reading the Chamber’s blog! My Chamber Connect is updated frequently with helpful articles, information about the county, video tutorials and commentary!
Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce 127 South State Street, Big Rapids Big Rapids, MI 49307 (231) 796-7649 • Fax: (231) 796-1625 mecostacounty.com
facebook.com/mcacc
twitter.com/mcacc2017
instagram.com/mecostacountychamber
STAFF
Michelle Rasmussen Ferris State University Jim Sandy Mecosta County Development Corporation
Jennifer Buwalda Program & Events Coordinator
events@mecostacounty.com
Shelby Withers Administrative Assistant
info@mecostacounty.com
AUGUST 2019
Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
7 WAYS TO STAY MOTIVATED AND ACCOMPLISH ANYTHING
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about how to get from point A to point B, create a mind map. When you do this, it not only organizes the mess in your brain; it also brings out your creativity and resourcefulness.
6. Have a plan B. Find inspiration in these words from Thomas Edison: "I have not failed. I've just found by Marla Tabaka - INC.com 10,000 ways that won't work." Let's face it, no matter how driven you are, there will be times when your energy and Be prepared to change course in light of the unexpected. This does not mean that you commitment will ebb. Yes, it happens--even to the most motivated among us. are giving up on a great idea. It means that you're destined to find one that's even better. You may have a great plan for your business, but now it's time to create a plan to keep yourself in high gear at work. When you need a boost try these simple tips to tap into your motivation. You know you can achieve anything when you put your mind to it!
1. Determine your motivating force.
What's your why, your passion, the vision beyond the vision, as I call it? You must have a reason to succeed; one that touches the deepest levels of your being. Before you begin every project explore the big picture. Why is it so important to you? What will you lose if you don't keep going? If you commit to something, just because you should, you will look back upon failure.
2. Tap into the energy of others.
If you feel tired, uninspired, even like giving up, I challenge you to examine the mindset of those around you. Do conversations with your closest companions renew your energy or drain it? Do you have people in your life who can engage in stimulating conversation about business or the other things that you're passionate about? As human beings we give and receive energy and inspiration. Make sure you are receiving as much, or more, than you are handing out.
7. Don't worry, be happy.
The Dalai Lama was once asked what surprised him most about humanity. "Man," he answered. Why? "Because," said His Holiness, "he sacrifices his health in order to make money. Then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health. And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never to die, and then dies having never really lived." Let go of anxious thinking. There's a difference between seeing the big picture and being well prepared and worrying about every possible problem before it exists. Take calculated risks and focus your energy on preparedness, not anxiety-provoking worry
Congratulations to our Member of the Month Big Rapids Cash & Carry!
3. Get your thoughts organized.
When I'm working on a big project, nothing zaps my energy more than an over-stimulated, cluttered mind. This is an easy state for entrepreneurs to fall into because we are so full of ideas and strategies: your mind can go in a million directions and all of them seem viable at the time. Collect these thoughts by talking through your desired outcome, what you've done so far, and your options for moving forward. Your coach is a great resource for this, and I'd be happy to help. Sometimes all it takes is a willing ear, so a patient friend will do. It's surprising how things can fall back into place simply by revisiting your goals with a second party.
4. Move the process from your head to an organized list.
You know how it goes. You're determined to make some headway today and you've got two hours to make a dent in your project. But you sit down, uncertain about where to begin. So what do you do instead? Get lost in social media or another distraction, right? Detailed lists outlining your next steps can eliminate this temptation. Break down your goals into bite-size, manageable chunks and always refer to your list before you get to work. Better yet, schedule time into your calendar for the very specific tasks that will take you to the next level in your project. The more specific you get, the less your mind will be inclined to go another direction.
5. Renew your creativity with a mind map.
If you keep your ideas and options in your head, it's difficult to tap into more expansive thinking.Your brain can efficiently manage only so much information before that information becomes nothing more than clutter.When you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or confused
Big Rapids Cash & Carry is a family owned & operated lumber yard & kitchen bath center catering to both the do it yourself customer & the custom builder. Since 1981 the Daniels family, starting with Jim & Phil, continuing with Phil & Bob, has prided itself on outstanding customer service and excellent quality. Big Rapids Cash & Carry employs over 20 people some of whom have been part of the “Big Rapids Cash & Carry Family” for 38+ years. Big Rapids invests in the community through donating to Habitat for Humanity, Little League, surrounding schools and many more organizations. Visit us at 130 S. Third St. Big Rapids or visit us on www.brcc.doitbest.com Hours of operation are M-F 7:00a.m.-5:30p.m. and Sat. 8:00 a.m.-1:00p.m. Contact us at 231-796-7270 for help with your next project today!
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Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
AUGUST 2019
CHAMBER NEWS AND INFO
Rise & Shine Mecosta scheduled 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 22, hosted by Mecosta County Historical Museum
at Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Center
Rise & Shine Mecosta! Start your day with networking over morning refreshments. All Mecosta county area residents are welcome to attend this free networking event. Mecosta County Historical Museum 129 S. Stewart Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307 RSVP is encouraged. Call the chamber at (231)796-7649 or email events@ mecostacounty.com
Business After Hours scheduled 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 15, hosted by Antlers Fireside Grill
Antlers Fireside Grill 10107 Buchanan Road, Stanwood, MI 49346 Register by phone at: 231.796.7649 Register by email at: Events@mecostacounty.com Meet the hosts: antlersfiresidegrill.com
Host Mecosta County Convention and Visitors Bureau
2019 Schedule The Ambassador Club of the Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce sponsors monthly networking events. Business After Hours are on the third Thursday of the month and Rise & Shine Mecosta are on the fourth Thursday of the month. Upcoming Business After Hours and Rise & Shine Mecosta events will be hosted by the following members: Upcoming Rise & Shine Mecosta • August 22: Mecosta County Historical Museum • September 26: The Wood Vacation Rentals • October 24: Metron
Upcoming Business After Hours • August 15: Antlers Fireside Grill • September 19: Planet Fitness • October 17: Tullymore-St. Ives If you’d like to host a Rise and Shine or Business After Hours event at your workplace, call the Chamber at (231) 796-7649 or email events@ mecostacounty.com. RSVP by calling the Chamber at (231) 796-7649 or email events@ mecostacounty.com.
Thank you to our July hosts! Mecosta County Convention and Visitors Bureau hosted a Rise & Shine and Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Center hosted a Business After Hours. Hosting Rise & Shine Mecosta or Business After Hours events are a great value included in membership. Contact the Chamber at (231) 796-7649 or email events@mecostacounty.com if you are interested in hosting either.
AUGUST 2019
Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
Ambassador Visits Pictured left to right Ambassador Felicia Donovan, Liz Tomasek Owner and Ambassador John Milan. Familiar Dog Grooming located at 302 S. Stewart St Big Rapids, phone 231.660.2360 to set an appointment for one on one grooming. A great partner of the ARC Animal shelter, Liz wants you to come to the Froyo Fundraiser at Toppings on August 12 from 6-9 to support ARC. Dogs will receive treats too! Pictured left to right Ambassador Felicia Donovan, Patient Care Coordinator Lauren Cardis and Ambassador John Milan. Michigan Hearing has local people with a passion for helping local people! Current campaign for better hearing "test your ears at 60 years". Open in Big Rapids Tuesday and Wednesday 9-5 at 120 N Michigan Ave. Big Rapids; kiddie-corner from Secretary of State. Call: 231.796.4143. Pictured Chamber Ambassador Sarah Hill and Dr. Jeff Mossel located in the back of BR Foot and Ankle Big Rapids. No Regerts Tattoo and spider vein removal is the only one in the area and offers $50 per treatment vs $300 for the same in Grand Rapids. The Trinity Astanza Laser Technology removes all colors. Most tattoos take 5-10 treatments, No Regerts offers express which gets you 3 treatments in one visit. They have 5 certified laser technicians on staff call 231.598.0705 to set an appointment. Pictured Ava Grace Jarzabkowski owner and Chamber Ambassador John Milan. Ava offers one on one and small group Pilates that will reverse your everyday work posture, crouching over a computer, etc. creates a strong core, back extension, opens up your chest and builds better posture! Located Downtown Big Rapids on Maple Street next to Lake Osceola State Bank. Call 262.352.5451 or search on social media to set an appointment.
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Ribbon Cuttings:
Remax Together Celebrated their Grand Reopening with a Ribbon Cutting on Tuesday July 23. Check out their newly renovated location at 1411 N State St, Big Rapids Michigan 49307.
The Ambassadors Club as well as Members of the Artworks board hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Detroit Institute of the Arts’ Inside Out Program on Friday July 19th. See page 8 for exhibit locations.
The Ambassadors Club along with the Rotary Club celebrated the Grand Opening of the Rotary Fitness Park with a Ribbon Cutting on June 27th. The park includes 30 individual pieces of equipment, shockresistant sports flooring, and an instructional app. Check it out on River Street, next to Spectrum Hospital and Riverview Elementary, in Big Rapids.
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Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
AUGUST 2019
Ferris State University Fine Art Gallery
Faces from the Southern Ocean June 10th -August 16th, 2019 J.J. L’Heuruex
Artist and naturalist J.J. L’Heureux has traveled to Antarctica seventeen times since 2000, documenting the landscape, the creatures that live there, and attempts at human habitation. She recently returned home to open several exhibitions at museums and galleries across the United States. J.J. L’Heureux is a visual artist based in Venice, CA who makes documentary-style photographs, as well as paintings and collages. She is an environmentalist who is interested in the micro and the macro. This has led her to photograph both near and far — the community around her Venice Beach studio and the exotic Antarctic landscape.
AUGUST 2019
Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
Big Rapids Lions Welcomes District Health Department Speaker
Picture – Lions Club President Dave Hamelund and Karen Ripke, District Health Department #10
The Big Rapids Lions Club was pleased to welcome Karen Ripke from District Health Department #10 to a recent meeting. Ms. Ripke provided members with a broad overview of the services available through the Department including, immunizations, WIC, radon kits and much more. Members appreciated learning about the extent to which the Department serves the community.
1 in 6 children in Mecosta County are unsure where their next meal will come from. You can attack childhood hunger and help feed foodinsecure children right here in Mecosta County. Register for the Angel Ride-Run-Walk and start collect pledges for your 5k or bike ride. You can choose to run or walk to 5k or ride 13, 26, 52, 72, or 100 miles all to feed children in our community. Participants who raise the most amount of money and the largest number of pledges win a prize the day of the event as well! Registration includes your event t-shirt and lunch. Visit www.angelsofaction.org/theangelriderunwalk to get registered and download your pledge sheet.
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River-based recreation is a vital component of river communities. Safer interactions with the Muskegon River is the mission of the Big Rapids Area River Safety (BRARS) project. BRARS believes lived experience of the river is a great way to build awareness of river hazards, leading to prevention of river incidents and more effective response in the case of incidents. Using sunscreen, wearing life jackets, understanding currents, taking swim lessons, staying hydrated, and knowing access points are other examples in which you can engage in safer interactions with the Muskegon River. A small crew representing BRARS is paddling the Muskegon River in early August. BRARS invites individuals, groups, and communities to join in paddling for a few hours or for a day! Follow the Voyage on Facebook @MuskegonRiverVoyage for the most updated information during the voyage. Individuals joining in on the voyage participate at their own risk and are responsible for their own boats, transportation, food, and safety gear. RSVPs are appreciated but not required. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. The schedule*: Day 1: Friday, Aug. 9th. 8:00am start | Crawford Park (M-66) north of Evart – Blodgett Landing Village Park (Hersey, MI) 21+ miles, est. 5-6 hrs @ paddling approx. 4 mph Day 2: Saturday, Aug. 10th. 8:00am start| Blodgett Landing (Hersey, MI) – River Bend Bluffs (south of Big Rapids, MI) 24+ miles, est. 7-8 hrs @ paddling approx. 3-4 mph Day 3: Sunday, Aug. 11th. 9:00am start | Croton Dam Tailwater Park Boat Launch – Anderson Flats DNR Landing 17+ miles, est. 4-6 hrs @ paddling approx. 3-4 mph Day 4: Monday, Aug 12th. 9:00am start | Anderson Flats DNR Landing – Maple Island DNR Landing 17+ mile, est. 5-6 hrs @ paddling approx. 3 mph *Subject to change if poor weather is expected or mishaps happen. The start times and locations will remain the same in the case of days being canceled. Follow the mighty Muskegon River Voyage on Instagram and Facebook @ MuskegonRiverVoyage. #MightyMuskegon and #MRVoyage19. Email us at muskegonrivervoyage@gmail.com.
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Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
Upcoming Artworks Schedule
AUGUST 2019
AUGUST 2019
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Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
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Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
AUGUST 2019
POWER RECLINERS & LIFT CHAIRS
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231-796-6329
www.silvernailrealty.com Sue Glatz, GRI, CRB, ABR, Broker/Owner Salespersons: Terry Weaver, Katy VanCuren Property Management • Land Contracts “Helping Buyers & Sellers for over 50 years”
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www.carelincmed.com 1250 Perry Ave, Ste D | Big Rapids, MI 49307 | p: 231.796.6623 | Monday-Friday: 8am-5pm @carelincmed
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Royal View Retirement Community
Services and Amenities Three home-cooked meals per day Housekeeping and laundry services Nutritional snacks provided throughout the day Life enriching activities • Beauty/barber shop services Registered Nurse on Staff 24 hour personal care assistance All medical needs monitored • Assistance with medication 9100 Buchanan Rd., Mecosta (Canadian Lakes Area)
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We also offer facials, salon services, body waxing, and whirlpool! OUR GROWING TEAM NOW INCLUDES: Christie Webster, Cosmetologist Katie Omness, Esthetician Monica Schriner, Massage Therapist Ashley King, Riverside Massage (231) 580-6357 126 Maple Street • Suite C • Big Rapids, MI www.CardinalSpaAndMassage.com
AUGUST 2019
Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
Thank You Mecosta County For Voting Meijer Big Rapids People’s Choice for #1 Favorite Grocery Store, Pharmacy, Produce, Cashier and place to purchase meat JOIN
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Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
AUGUST 2019
4 WAYS TO STAY MOTIVATED AS YOU BUILD YOUR BUSINESS inspiration, you can get motivated instantly. There are videos, podcasts, articles and different forms of virtual content that you can consume immediately. Entrepreneur.com Have content on the ready for tapping into when you’re unmotivated. Listen to what the entrepreneurial greats who are doing what you’re working Tell me if this sounds familiar. You’re having an amazing month when things to do have to say about taking action. When you feel down, hit "play" and get an are flowing in your business. You’re signing new clients, your current customers are spreading the word about your business. Things are going so well that you instant boost of inspiration to keep going. You’ll be surprised by what a simple video or article can do for your mindset. pinch yourself to make sure you’re not dreaming. Then, the next month arrives. Business slows down. Potential clients decide 4. HAVE A MISSION BIGGER THAN JUST A BUSINESS. to use someone else. One thing after another just doesn’t go your way. Take a look at any successful business and you'll see it is more than the In either case, your motivation affects the growth of your business. During the widgets, marketing or who is in charge. They are businesses that are built good times, motivation can be a little different to stay focused on the smaller tasks that grow a business. During the hard times, you don’t feel motivated to do around a mission and vision. There was a driving force that caused the business anything but sit with a drink on the couch vegging out on your favorite TV series. to be formed with the main goal being to help people and change the world. Constant and consistent motivation comes when you build your business It takes a lot to build a business. Your motivation is an important part of the around an idea that’s bigger than just making money. Build a business that equation. Being motivated 100 percent of the time is not a realistic expectation, but there are strategies for staying consistently motivated to achieve explosive makes an impact on the lives of those your business serves. A business that creates freedom and financial security. Get clear on your mission and the values growth in your business. that shape the actions you’re taking. You’re an entrepreneur building your dream. You're putting your dent in a 1. TAKE PLENTY OF 'YOU' TIME. It’s easy and common to get lost in the hustle of building your business. You world that's full of conformity. It will take a lot of consistent motivation to push have long workdays, respond to message all hours of the day and chase down through the hard times because there will be plenty of them every single day. potential business when it looks within your grasp. Before you know it, you start Use these four tips to tap into your inner power and use that motivation to do to hate your business because it’s overtaken your life. You start to get bitter amazing things. about what you once loved. To stay constantly motivated, you need breaks. You need to schedule lots of "you" time. This includes vacations and hours when you turn off “business mode." Set boundaries with clients and have lots of time set aside for doing the things that light you on fire. You need to recharge your batteries so that you can come back stronger after the "you" time. Those breaks will help you get more done because it brings greater consistency. By Kimanzi Constable
2. BUILD CONNECTIONS INTO EACH WEEK.
Human beings crave connection with other human beings.You can try building a business on your own, but at some point, you’ll need to involve others. It may be bringing on employees, a virtual assistant or strategic partnerships. But also, it’s human contact and connection through groups and masterminds. Don’t build your business on an island. Consistent motivation comes when you’re sharing experiences with other motivated people. You learn from each other while getting the connection that’s built into your DNA. Set aside time to mastermind,
3. HAVE YOUR SOURCES OF INSTANT INSPIRATION.
No one is motivated 100 percent of the time, but with the right sources of
AUGUST 2019
Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
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WHAT DAILY LEADERSHIP BEHAVIORS INSPIRE EMPLOYEE MOTIVATION? By: Susan M Heathfield The Balance Want to spend your time in leadership activities that inspire motivation, trust, and certainty while dispelling employee fear, negativity, and skepticism? During times of change, no actions are more powerful than when leaders make the time to communicate and build relationships. When leadership shares vision, optimism, and purpose-driven goals, motivation and commitment from employees is ensured. Jon Gordon, the author of "Soup: A Recipe to Nourish Your Team and Culture," who participated in an earlier interview about managers and motivation, recommends these six leadership actions to inspire employee motivation.
COMMUNICATE DAILY WITH EMPLOYEES
Communication is a powerful tool that leadership can use to create an environment that brings forth employee motivation. Communication provides information, makes employees feel important and recognized, and provides the glue that binds a workforce with their leadership and their organization. Transparent communication of goals, financial results, and improving service to customers is imperative if you want employees to bring their hearts and spirit to work. "Communicate with transparency, authenticity, and clarity. Whether you have a scheduled morning meeting each day, make office rounds in the afternoon, or take your team to lunch, make it a priority to make time to talk to each and every member of your team on a regular basis. You may be busy, but, the truth of the matter is that you really can't afford not to communicate frequently with your employees,” Gordon recommends.
TRANSFER LEADERSHIP’S OPTIMISM
“As a leader, your most important weapon against pessimism (prevalent in recent years) is to transfer your optimism and vision to others. This inspires others to think and act in ways that drive results. ”Leadership is a transfer of belief—and great leaders inspire their teams to believe they can succeed. As a leader and manager, you are not just leading and managing people, but you are also leading and managing their beliefs. You must utilize every opportunity available to transfer your optimism,” Gordon says. ”From town hall meetings to daily emails to individual conversations to weekly teleconferences, it's imperative that you share your optimism with your team. Optimism is a competitive advantage, and you need to convey it in all you say and do. As one of the greatest American innovators, Henry Ford, said, ‘Think you can, or think you can't—either way you are correct.’”
LEADERSHIP SHARES THE VISION
Gordon recommends that to inspire employee motivation, leadership must, “Share the vision. It's not enough to just be optimistic. You must give your team and organization something to be optimistic about. Talk about where you have been, where you are, and where you are going. "Share your plan for a brighter and better future, talk about the actions you must take, and constantly reiterate the reasons why you will be successful. Create a vision statement that inspires and rallies your team and organization."
LEADERSHIP BUILDS RELATIONSHIPS
“Relationships build real motivation. It's much easier to motivate someone if you know them and they know you. After all, if you don't take the time to get to know the people who are working for you, then how can you ever truly know the best way to lead, coach, and motivate them effectively? And, for that matter, how can you expect them to trust and follow you if they don't know you as well?” "Relationships are the foundation upon which winning teams and organizations are built," says Gordon. "I advise managers to make their relationship with their employees their number one priority.
"In fact, I've worked with numerous NFL coaches and have seen firsthand how the most successful coaches and best motivators are those who develop meaningful relationships with their players. The same strategy that works on the playing field works in the office as well."
LEADERSHIP CREATES PURPOSE-DRIVEN GOALS
Gordon recommends: “Create purpose-driven goals. When it comes down to it, the real force behind motivation has nothing to do with money or number-driven goals. Real motivation is driven by purpose and a desire to make a difference. "In fact, people are most energized when they are using their strengths for a purpose beyond themselves. When employees feel as though the work they do is playing an integral role in the overall success of the company and the world, they are motivated to work harder.” ”Similarly, when they feel as though they are working for something more than just the bottom line, they feel good about the work they are doing. So as a leader, you will want to motivate your team by focusing less on number goals and more on purpose-driven goals," Gordon explains. "It's not the numbers that drive your people but your people and purpose that drive the numbers. Sit down with each individual on your team and talk through their personal goals and how you see those goals fit into the bigger picture. Give them a sense of purpose that will fuel their fire towards taking action."
LEADERSHIP NOURISHES THE TEAM
These may seem like strange words to apply to the workplace. But Gordon insists they are spoton. He says, “The main question that every employee in every organization wants to know is, ‘Do you care about me; can I trust you?’ "If your answer is yes, they will be more likely to stay on the bus and work with you. Employees who feel cared for, honored, and nourished are more engaged in what they're doing and will work at their highest potential.” Think about it: Gallup's research shows that employees who think their managers care about them are more loyal and productive than those who do not think so. If you nourish your team and take the time to invest in them, they will pay you back in productivity, creativity, and loyalty. If your employees know that you care about them, they will want to do good work for you. It's the greatest motivator of all.” "Remember this simple formula," Gordon concludes. "Belief plus action equals results. If you don't believe that something can happen, then you won't take the actions necessary to create it. "If you believe that your team can do big things, they will believe it, too. And that belief will fuel the fires of action and provide you with the results you're looking for." Nowhere are these six leadership actions more important than in today’s organizations. Leadership strives to draw forth the best that employees have to offer, their intrinsic motivation and their discretionary energy. With the active role of your organization’s leadership in these six critical activities, motivation and commitment from employees are ensured.
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Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
AUGUST 2019
WHAT PEOPLE WANT FROM WORK: MOTIVATION WHAT PEOPLE WANT TO OBTAIN FROM WORK FOR PERSONAL MOTIVATION By: Susan M. Heathfield The Balance Every individual person has different motivations for working at a job. The reasons for working are as individual as the person. But, all people work because the workplace provides something that you need from work. The something that you obtain from your work impacts your morale, your motivation, and the quality of your life. Here are thoughts about employee motivation, what people want from work, and how you can help employees attain what they need for their work motivation.
WORK IS ABOUT THE MONEY
Some people work for their love of the work; others work for personal and professional fulfillment. Other people like to accomplish goals and feel as if they are contributing to something larger than themselves, something important, an overarching vision for what they can create. Some people have personal missions they accomplish through meaningful work. Others truly love what they do or the clients they serve. Some like the camaraderie and interaction with customers and coworkers. Other people like to fill their time with activity. Some workers like change, challenge, and diverse problems to solve. As you can see, employee motivation is individual and diverse. Whatever your personal reasons for working, the bottom line, however, is that almost everyone works for money. Whatever you call it: compensation, salary, bonuses, benefits or remuneration, money pays the bills. Money provides housing, gives children clothing and food, sends teens to college, and allows leisure activities, and eventually, retirement. Unless you are independently wealthy, you need to work to collect a paycheck. To underplay the importance of money and benefits as motivation for people who work is a mistake. It may not be their most significant motivator or even the motivational factor they'd first mention in a conversation but earning a living is a factor in any discussion about employee motivation. Fair benefits and pay are the cornerstones of a successful company that recruits and retains committed workers. If you provide a living wage for your employees, you can then work on additional motivation issues. Without
the fair, living wage, however, you risk losing your best people to a better-paying employer. In fact, research from Watson Wyatt Worldwide in "The Human Capital Edge: 21 People Management Practices Your Company Must Implement (or Avoid) to Maximize Shareholder Value," recommends, that to attract the best employees, you need to pay more than your average-paying counterparts in the marketplace. Money provides basic motivation.
GOT MONEY? WHAT'S NEXT FOR MOTIVATION?
Surveys and studies dating back to the early 1980s demonstrate that people want more from work than money. An early study of thousands of workers and managers by the American Psychological Association clearly demonstrated this. Managers predicted that the most important motivational aspect of work for people they employed would be money. Instead, it turned out that personal time and attention from the manager or supervisor was cited by workers as the most rewarding and motivational for them at work. In a "Workforce" article, "The Ten Ironies of Motivation," reward and recognition guru, Bob Nelson, says, "More than anything else, employees want to be valued for a job well done by those they hold in high esteem." He adds that people want to be treated as if they are adult human beings who think, makes decisions, tries to do the right thing, and don't need a caretaker watching over their shoulders. While what people want from work is situational, depending on the person, his needs and the rewards that are meaningful to him, giving people what they want from work is really quite straightforward. The basics are: • Control of their work inspires motivation: including such components as the ability to have an impact on decisions; setting clear and measurable goals; clear responsibility for a complete, or at least defined, task; job enrichment; tasks performed in the work itself; and recognition for achievement. • To belong to the in-crowd creates motivation: including items such as receiving timely information and communication; understanding management's formulas for decision making; team and meeting
participation opportunities; and visual documentation and posting of work progress and accomplishments. • The opportunity for growth and development is motivational: and includes education and training; career paths; team participation; succession planning; cross-training; and field trips to successful workplaces. • Leadership is key in motivation. People want clear expectations that provide a picture of the outcomes desired with goal setting and feedback and an appropriate structure or framework.
their decision to join or leave a company. That means that many companies are working very hard (and using scarce resources) on the wrong tools," say Pfau and Kay. People want employers to pay them above market rates. They seek flexible work schedules. They want stock options, a chance to learn, and the increased sharing of the rationale behind management decisions and direction.
RECOGNITION FOR PERFORMANCE CREATES MOTIVATION
You have much information about what people want from work. Key to creating a work environment that fosters motivation are the wants and needs of the individual employees. The most significant recommendation for your takeaway is that you need to start asking your employees what they want from work and whether they are getting it. With this information in hand, you'll be surprised at how many simple and inexpensive opportunities you have to create a motivational, desirable work environment. Pay attention to what is important to the people you employ for high motivation and positive morale. When you foster these for people, you'll achieve awesome business success
In "The Human Capital Edge," authors Bruce Pfau and Ira Kay say that people want recognition for their individual performance with pay tied to their performance. Employees want people who don't perform fired; in fact, failure to discipline and fire nonperformers is one of the most demotivating actions an organization can take—or fail to take. It ranks on the top of the list next to paying poor performers the same wage as non-performers in deflating motivation. Additionally, the authors found that a disconnect continues to exist between what employers think people want at work and what people say they want for motivation. "Employers far underrate the importance to employees of such things as flexible work schedules or opportunities for advancement in
WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR MOTIVATION AND POSITIVE MORALE
AUGUST 2019
Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
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8 IDEAS ON HOW TO INSPIRE MOTIVATION IN THE WORKPLACE Susan M Heathfield The Balance
your employees. Every employee has a different motivation for why they work. But we all work because we obtain something that we need from working. The something that we need that we obtain from work has an impact on our morale and motivation. Learning what employees want will help you formulate the next step when building motivation in the workplace.
Motivation is a powerful energy that drives and excites employees, which results in their maximum contribution. Setting and achieving goals, clear expectations, recognition, feedback, as well as encouraging management all contribute to an increase in workplace motivation. It flourishes in a positive work environment, which is why SET REALISTIC GOALS so many leaders want to learn new ways How can you help a co-worker or to motivate their workforce. reporting staff member find motivation at work? You can create a work environment LEARN WHAT PEOPLE WANT that provides the greatest possibility for Motivation is different for each of employees to achieve individual or group
goals. A motivating work environment provides clear direction so that employees know what is expected of them. Handin-hand with clear direction, employees should have goals that fit within the company's strategic framework.
PROVIDE EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION
Employee recognition can increase motivation when it is offered and implemented effectively. It is one of the keys to successful employee motivation. Employee recognition follows trust as a factor in employee satisfaction with their supervisor and their workplace. In this instance, the stick should yield to the carrot.
USE TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT FOR MOTIVATION
always looking over their shoulder. If an employee is performing well, no need to watch every little thing they do.
CELEBRATE HOLIDAYS AND CREATE TRADITIONS
Traditions are as important in organizations as they are in families. Nothing is more important for employee motivation than the annual traditions workplaces create for seasonal holidays. A holiday celebration builds positive morale, which results in increased motivation. High morale and motivation contribute to team building and productivity. Try some holiday and tradition celebrations to build positive morale and motivation in your workplace.
TAP INTO EMPLOYEE DISCRETIONARY ENERGY
Employees choose how much discretionary energy to exert for their employers in the workplace. Discretionary energy is the extra drive that an employee exerts in service to coworkers and customers at work. It is a symptom of motivation—only motivated employees contribute their discretionary energy at work. The work environment that encourages employee discretionary energy contribution and motivation emphasize these factors.
Want to keep your staff motivated about learning and work? The quality and the variety of the training options that you supply for employees are key for motivation. You can provide training including new employee onboarding, management development, new concepts for a work group, team building, and how to operate a new computer system. They all add to a working environment that employees would be proud to call home. PROMOTE YOUR PERSONAL
PROVIDE AUTONOMY TO HIGH-PERFORMING EMPLOYEES
The challenge in any work environment is to create a culture in which people are motivated by their work. Too often, organizations fail to pay attention to the issues that are most important to employees: relationships, communication, recognition, and involvement. Workers who perform well should not be rewarded by having a manager who is
GROWTH AND MOTIVATION
No matter how positive your workplace culture and environment are, you have the starring role in promoting your personal growth and motivation. You can promote your own personal growth, motivation, and career development to overcome boredom, inertia, and staleness.
Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
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AUGUST 2019
Members Bulletin Board
This section is dedicated to Chamber members who are utilizing their marketing opportunities as one of the many values of belonging to the Chamber:
Artworks. Summer Camp! $90-$100 Hand Built Pottery August 6th-8th Ages 7-15 Sketchbook Bootcamp August 6th - 8th Ages 16+ Wine & Stained Glass Sun Catcher Workshop August 8 6 - 8:30 PM LIVE Artist Demonstrations Fridays in July and August 11am to 2pm at Farmer’s Market in Downtown Big Rapids. Featuring: Photography by Jeff Wier - August 2 Knitting by Phyllis Grit - August 9 Acrylics by Juanne Kern - August 16 Color Pencil by Anita Sams - August 30
Hemlock Park Bandshell Summer 2019 Wednesday Evenings at 7pm. Free Concert in the park!
August 7: Ruby and the Retros August 14: Project 90
Mecosta County Historical Society 129 S. Steward Ave Big Rapids MI 49307 Friday-Saturday 2-4pm
Big Rapids Community Library bigrapids.lib.mi.us
Knit Night
August 1st 6:30p-8:30p
Knit Night
August 15th 6:30p-8:30p
Story Time at the Farmers Market For class descriptions, fees, and registration, visit artworksinbigrapids.org/classes or scan QR code
August 2nd 10:30am
Mary’s Book Club
Book Sale
July 19th 12p-1p
August 3rd 10a-12p Friends of the Library Meeting
Going Global Book Club
August 7th 4p.m.
July 16th 6p-7p
Library Closed – City Employee Picnic
Story Time
August 7 11a-2p
Wednesdays 10:30a-11:30a vv
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Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
AUGUST 2019
Angels of Action Saddle Up for Childhood Hunger Saturday, August 3, 2019 D Bar D Ranch 7064 E. 64th St, Chase MI Wagon rides, Guided Rides, Taco Bar, Silent Acution & Prizes, 50/50 Poker Ride $10 a Hand All Pledges and Proceeds Benefit Angels of Action Early Registration: $30 Ends July 1 Register early to enter for a chance to win 20 bales of free hay! To Register, download your pledge sheet, and more information visit:
FSU Fine Arts Gallery Faces from the Southern Ocean June 10th August 16th, 2019 J.J. L’Heuruex
www.angelsofaction.org 734.716.2121 Riders must provide their own horse.
Angel Ride Run Walk September 14th • 5K starts 9 AM Ride starts 8:30 AM • Benefits child hunger Register at angelsofaction.org
RECYCLE! Of Mecosta County MONDAY 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. FRIDAY 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. SATURDAY 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 424 N. 4th Street Big Rapids, MI 49307 (231) 796-9872
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Big Rapids Department of Parks & Recreation Summer Programs To register for programs please contact City Hall Recreation Department 226 N. Michigan Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307 (231)592-4038
CHARLES E. FAIRMAN COMMUNITY POOL Pool Opens: June 17th Pool Closes: August 23rd (Pool will be closed July 4th) For a full schedule and pool fees, visit brpr.org or call the pool information line at (231) 796-7798. FARMERS MARKET Tuesdays May 14th—September 24th 12:00 pm—5:00 pm Fridays May 10th—October 25th 8:00 am—2:00 pm City Hall Parking Lot PICKLEBALL May 1st – Oct. 1st Tuesdays and Thursdays 5pm—7:00 pm Cost: $3 Ferris Racquet Facility Coordinator: Gary Lenon No need to have a paddle, all new players are welcome! To register for programs please contact City Hall Recreation Department 226 N. Michigan Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307 (231)592-4038
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Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
mecostacounty.com
How to join the Chamber All types of businesses are welcome to join the Chamber and anyone that feels they would benefit from additional marketing, networking and educational opportunities are encouraged to take advantage of all of the benefits that the Chamber has to offer! Joining the Chamber is easy, all you have to do is fill out the application form and submit with your annual dues. Payment options are available. You can receive the application form by going to our website at www. mecostacounty.com, by stopping in our office at 127 South State Street, Big Rapids or by calling us at 231-796-7649 and requesting a packet be mailed to you. Your benefits start immediately once the application is received. It’s just that easy! Let us know if you have any questions and we look forward to serving you!
Member Benefit Spotlight: Hot Deals
What is it?
What should you do?
Hot Deals is a tab on our website, Sign in to your member account listed under Member Center where and add your deal, or submit your members can tell everyone about deal to info@mecostacounty.com for any hot deal they’re running. us to do it for you!
AUGUST 2019
AUGUST 2019
Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
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Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce News • Visit us at mecostacounty.com
AUGUST 2019
Aug 2 11:30a Breast Feeding Support Group @ BR Community Library 2p Cosmic Comedy Magic
with Gordon Russ @ BR Community Library
9p Movie in the Park
@ Anna Howard Shaw Memorial Park
Aug 3 9a Saddle Up for Childhood Hunger
BIG RAPIDS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION SUMMER PROGRAMS SENIOR FIT TIME – TUESDAYS 4-5PM THURSDAYS 3-4PM PICKLEBALL – TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS 5-7PM
GFWC MONTHLY MEETINGS
2ND TUESDAY OF THE MONTH, SEPTEMBER THROUGH MAY AT THE BIG RAPIDS PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT. CALL 231-349-7743 FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Aug 4 10:30a Summer Picinic & Worship Service
AUGUST 2019
@ Northend Riverside Park Aug 6 3p Ribbon Cutting
@ Big Rapids Autism Center
Aug 8 6p Wine & Stained Glass
Sun Catcher Workshop @ Artworks
Aug 9 6:30p Share the Harvest Fundraiser
in Downtown Big Rapids
Aug 14 11:30a Lunch and Learn
@ Michigan Works! West Central
Aug 15
5p Business After Hours hosted by the Big Rapids Downtown Association
@ Holiday Inn Hotel & Conference Center
Aug 17 7a 2nd Annual Cardinals Sports
Booster 5K Run/Walk @ Hemlock Park
Aug 22 7:30a Rise and Shine
@ Mecosta County Convention & Visitors Bureau
Aug 23 8p All City Yardsale
@ City Hall Parking Lot
DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS, CHAPTER 18
A SERVICE OFFICER IS AVAILABLE TO ASSIST VETERANS IN RECEIVING BENEFITS. THURSDAYS 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. AT THE DAV IN BIG RAPIDS. ALL VETERANS WELCOME
BIG RAPIDS COMMUNITY LIBRARY KNIT NIGHT - EVERY FIRST AND THIRD THURSDAY ( 8.1.19 & 8.15.19) 6:30PM STORY TIME - WEDNESDAYS 10:30AM FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY FINE ART GALLERY FACES FROM THE SOUTHERN OCEAN JUNE 10TH -AUGUST 16TH, 2019 J.J. L’HEURUEX
FARMERS' MARKET
EVERY FRIDAY FROM MAY 10TH- OCTOBER 25TH 8:00AM- 2:00PM EVERY TUESDAY FROM MAY 14TH - SEPTEMBER 24TH 12:00PM - 5:00PM
CONCERT SCHEDULE
HEMLOCK BANDSHELL - Wednesdays 7 PM POCKET PARK - Fridays 12 PM BIG RAPIDS LIONS CLUB MEETS EVERY SECOND AND FOURTH MONDAYS OF THE MONTH, 6:30 P.M. AT #52 SPORTS BAR AND KITCHEN. BIG RAPIDS ROTARY CLUB MEETS EVERY TUESDAY AT NOON AT FALCON HEAD