September 2016 Business Outlook by Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

SEPT

Business outlook 2016

September 2016

Business Outlook

ProblemSolving Tips for business Page 14

our members announce INSIDE

PRESIDENTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MESSAGE Advanced Industries Surprisingly Important to Metro Area

p. 3

September 2016

Business Outlook

Board of Directors 2016-2017 Executive Committee Karen Plott

CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

Clive Veri

CHAIRMAN ELECT OF THE BOARD

David Glenn

PAST CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

James Richards

TREASURER

Louise Secker VICE CHAIRMAN MEMBERSHIP/ COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Kim Woodard CO-VICE CHAIRMAN MEMBERSHIP/COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Lori Scott Dreiling VICE CHAIRMAN ECONOMIC/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Brad Beecher CO-VICE CHAIRMAN ECONOMIC/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Directors Ex-Officio Directors Gina Atteberry Sam Anselm Michael Beatty John Bartosh Brandon Davis Dr. Nicole Brown Donovan Edwards Mike Gray Jacqueline Hackett Dr. Alan Marble Rodney Haynes Dr. Jennifer Methvin Holly Hukill Matt Proctor John Karry Dr. Norm Ridder Randy Moore Marilyn Ruestman Kelli Perigo Michael Seibert Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Staff Executive Rob O’Brian, CEcD PRESIDENT Tonya Sprenkle VICE PRESIDENT Lisa Kelly EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Member Services Ginger LaMar, IOM Stephanie McGrew Jim Kesler

DIRECTOR OF MEMBER SERVICES & DEVELOPMENT MEMBER EVENTS PRODUCER MEMBERSHIP SALES STRATEGIST

Communications Kirstie Smith COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Wendy Brunner-Lewis COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Martha Getz YPN/COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Finance Samantha Doubledee FINANCE DIRECTOR Melany Frederick FINANCE COORDINATOR INTERN Economic & Workforce Development Brian Kelly NEWMAN INNOVATION CENTER DIRECTOR Kevin Welch DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS ATTRACTION Cary Beasley, IOM WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Mark Turnbull DIRECTOR OF REGIONAL STRATEGIES

Administrative Support Lea Schroer NEWMAN INNOVATION CENTER ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Melissa Winslow ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

5-Star Partnership Level Sponsors Platinum Level

City of Joplin Downstream Casino Resort The Empire District Electric Company KOAM-TV/FOX 14 – KFJX Stronghold Data LLC

Chairman Level

Commerce Bank EaglePicher Technologies, LLC Freeman Health System General Mills Joplin Floor Designs Joplin Globe Publishing Company Joplin Regional Business Journal Joplin Supply Company KODE-TV/KSNF-TV Lamar Outdoor Advertising Lancaster Signs Mercy Hospital Joplin Missouri Southern State University Results Radio, AMI Radio Group SNC Squared Southwest Missouri Bank US Bank, N.A.

President Level

Arvest Bank BKD, LLP Community Bank & Trust (CBT) Roper Honda Show Me The Ozarks Magazine

Director Level

Choice Marketing Connell Insurance, Inc. Joplin ProPrint Lakeland Office Systems, Inc. Motive Matters Storm Stanley Weed Whackers, Inc.

Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce 320 East 4th Street, Joplin, MO 64801 Phone: 417.624.4150 Fax: 417.624.4303 www.joplincc.com /joplinchamber /joplinchamber

September 2016

Business Outlook

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Advanced Industries Surprisingly Important to Metro Area Recently, the Brookings Institute released its report on the status of advanced industries in the U.S. This report outlined the importance of the advanced industry sectors to the U.S. and state economies in terms of providing better, higher-paying jobs and more economic output than other sectors. Missouri was noted as a Top 10 state in employment growth in the advanced industries sectors. But the Joplin Metro Area is also strong in these sectors.

Rob O’Brian, President

Brookings defined the advanced industries group as a "supersector that encompasses 50 diverse industries, including 35 manufacturing, three energy and 12 service industries. These industries include advanced manufacturing industries like aerospace, auto, medical devices and pharmaceuticals, energy-oriented industries such as oil and gas extraction and electric power generation, and high-tech service activities such as computer system design, R&D services, software and telecommunications.”

In the U.S., about 8.5 percent of all jobs are in the advanced industries sector, but more than 17 percent of total economic output comes from these 50 industries. Brookings looked at the individual metro areas as well as states. For the metros, they looked at the Top 100, including Kansas City and St. Louis, and the 280 small metros, including the other metros in Missouri. In the Top 100 metros, Kansas City ranked 23rd in the amount of total employment in advanced industries, and St. Louis ranked 52nd. Of the 280 small metros, Joplin ranked 103, with just over 7 percent of our employment (more than 6,000 jobs) in advanced industries. The economic output of advanced industries for the Joplin metro was 14.7 percent, or more than $1 billion annually. Only St. Joseph was higher in terms of the portion of economic output in the advanced industries supersector. Metro

Rank

# of Jobs

% of Total Jobs

Output Billions $

% Total Output

Cape Girardeau

245

1,601

3.4

0.4

10.8

Columbia

149

5,820

5.8

0.9

10.8

Jefferson City

157

4,660

5.7

0.9

14.3

Joplin

103

6,018

7.1

1.1

14.7

Springfield

144

129,004

6.0

2.2

12.2

St. Joseph

159

3,665

5.6

0.9

15.4

Kansas City

109,208

10.2

15.2

15.1

St. Louis

114,316

8.3

20.2

15.4

Within our metro area, about 78 percent of jobs in advanced industries are in manufacturing. However, more than 17 percent of jobs in advanced industries is in the information technology sectors. But there are some concerns Brookings noted, of which we should be aware. From 2013 to 2015, most of the growth in the advanced industries was focused in automotive and information technologies. The other manufacturing sectors were generally stagnant, and energy collapsed with low oil and gas prices. We saw a similar picture, with growth in information technology jobs, but a slide in energy and a loss in advanced manufacturing. However, the advanced industries in the Joplin Metro Area are, overall, in good position and continue to seek new market opportunities that could lead to more growth in the future. That is important to our area since these jobs pay about $20,000 more, on average, than the average wages, and add economic impact that ripples throughout the region. These advanced industries, according to Brookings, are the country’s best shot at supporting innovative, inclusive and sustainable growth. They are the same for us as well. 3

September 2016

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September 2016

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Presented by 2016-2017 Executive Committee Brent Baker, Chairman Ryan Melton, Co-Chairman Dr. Nicole Brown, Past Chairman Shawn Daniel Jennifer Little Stephanie Onstot Dustin Parker Greg Sutton Megan Tyler Whitney Warren Christina Williams

New YPN Members Lindsey Bragg Hershewe Law Firm Jason Burkhart Clean Uniform Company Fallon Donlan Mercy Hospital Joplin Sergio Rizo Ozark Christian College

Calendar of Events for September 2016 September 5 Office Closed Labor Day September 7 7:33 am Membership Event - Team Captain's Training Missouri Southern State University End Zone Facility 9 am Leads Group Three Chamber Office September 9 7:30 am First Friday Coffee Mercy Hospital Joplin Cancer Center

September 14 9 am Leads Group Two Chamber Office

September 20-22 JACC High-Energy Membership Event Advanced Training & Technology Center

September 15 7:15 am Good Morning Joplin Victory Ministry & Sports Complex

September 21 9 am Leads Group Three Chamber Office

September 20 9 am Leads Group One Steam Way Restorations 5:30 pm Business After Hours Results Radio, AMI Radio Group

September 26 11:30 am Chamber Board of Directors Meeting Chamber Office September 28 9 am Leads Group Two Chamber Office 5

Ribbon Cuttings

Tri-State Engineering, a division of Olsson Engineering

Missouri Southern State University/ Empire District Electric Company

Ozark Christian College

Spring River Christian Village

Farrell Construction, Inc.

Wildcat Glades Conservation/Audubon Center

Gabe Lett, CPSM 702 South Main Street Acquisition by Olsson Engineering

Matt Proctor, President 1111 North Main Street Grand Opening of Idleman Ministry Center

Cory Farrell, Vice President 16131 Overlook Lane, Neosho 40-year Anniversary 6

Presented by

Alan Marble, MSSU; Brad Beecher, Empire Located at MSSU Plug-in Stations for Electric Vehicles

Scott King, Administrator 201 South Northpark Lane Remodel

Donna Whitehead, Director 201 West Riviera Drive, Suite A Recipient of 2016 Missouri American Water Environmental Grant

Ribbon provided by Countryside in the City

September 2016

Business Outlook

13TH ANNUAL JOMO REGIONAL PAYROLL CONFERENCE September 30, 2016 Piecing Together the Puzzle

September 2016

Business Outlook

LOCATION: The Butcher's Block, 499 W. Fountain Rd, Joplin, MO

Earn 5 RCH Credits

Personal

American Payroll Association Joplin Chapter of Southwest Missouri

New Member Spotlight

Joplin has a local American Payroll Association Chapter that can help you grow as a payroll professional. The chapter was formed in 2003 by local members of the National American Payroll Association. We have monthly meetings with guest speakers and an annual seminar, along with other activities. All payroll, human resource, benefits and finance professionals are welcome

to join. Dues are only $25 per year. Would you like to keep up to date on current payroll issues? Do you need to network with other payroll professionals? Would you like to become certified as a payroll professional? Then we have the place for you! Join us for our 13th Annual Payroll Conference September 30, 2016. If you would like more information about our chapter or conference, contact Wendy Mashburn at 417.623.0941 or Debbie Cash at 417.782.3909, ext. 148. 7

September 2016

Business Outlook

Our Members Announce presented by On September 17, Victory Ministry and Crossroads Ministries are hosting “Dream Days – Giving a City Permission to Dream” at Victory Ministry & Sports Complex, 3405 South Hammons Blvd. Businesses are invited to help our community become the very best it can be by setting up booths to showcase how you can help others pursue their dreams. For more information, email dbillings@cableone.net. Dave Woods, president of the American Advertising Federation of Joplin, and the digital media manager at Choice Marketing, was honored recently with the 2015 President of the Year award for AAF District Nine. The award recognizes outstanding performance of a president in chapter leadership and accomplishments. For more information, call 417.291.4997. Distinctive Home Products offers a wide selection of bathroom and kitchen fixtures, faucets, cabinets and countertops. They will answer any of your questions and help you before, during and after your project is complete. Plus, you can get up to $1,200 back from the KOHLER Dream Kitchen & Bathroom Rebate on KOHLER purchases now through November 30. Find Distinctive Home Products at 2211 East 7th Street, 417.781.2648 or distinctivehomeproducts.com. Shop rebate products at http:// www.kohlerassets.com/kohlerus/ads/tt/rsys/bathing-rebate/ index.htm. Rapha House recently received the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability Seal of Approval for its commitment to financial responsibility and transparency. Learn more at https://raphahouse.org/about/financials. Missouri Small Business & Technology Development Centers will host “Customer Service: Does It Still Exist?” September 20, 11:45 am-1 pm, at Carthage Water & Electric Plant, 627 West Centennial Avenue, Carthage. $10 per person for lunch. Pay at the door, but please register in advance at https:// events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a0 7ed05asvo9272d102&oseq=&c=&ch=. Watered Gardens and the True Charity Initiative invite you to learn about and discuss the history of poverty-fighting efforts and how our current course can be corrected to promote effective charity and compassion. This all-day event featuring Marvin Olasky, author of “The Tragedy of American Compassion,” takes place September 12 from 10 am-4 pm at Ozark Christian College. For more information, go to http:// www.truecharity.us/course-correcting-for-effective-charity/.

Pro Musica begins its 36th season by presenting Harlem String Quartet September 30 at 7 pm at College Heights Christian Church, 4311 East Newman Road. The quartet’s mission is 8 to advance diversity in classical music through the discovery

and presentation of varied repertoire that includes works by minority composers. The concert is open to the public at no charge with donations appreciated. For more information, go to www.promusicajoplin.org or call 417.625.1822. Spiva Center for the Arts announces Rhea Cooper, Spiva’s bookkeeper, was named one of Missouri’s Outstanding Older Workers. Nominees must be Missouri residents who are age 60 or older; employed at least 20 hours a week in a Missouri job site; and demonstrate success in learning new skills and job training. For more information, call 417.623.0183. Did you know September is Life Insurance Awareness Month? A quick online calculation at www.lifehappens.org/howmuch can help determine your life insurance needs, and local NAIFA-Southwest Missouri agents are available to help. Connect with us on Facebook @NAIFASouthwestMissouri and check “get life insurance” off your to-do list. The Boys & Girls Club of Southwest Missouri is hosting its annual fundraiser, Club Comingo, October 8 at the Scottish Rite Cathedral. This dinner-auction benefits the Club by raising critical funds to support its after-school and summer programs. Individual tickets and table sponsorships available. For more information, call 417.623.8072 or email emarion@bgcswmo.org. The Joplin Museum Complex is hosting the Missouri State Archives exhibit titled “Mapping Missouri” through September 17. Over 100 examples of cartography from the Missouri State Archives special collection are featured. For more information, call 417.623.1180. Sweet Emotion - A Chocolate Boutique announces their all new “Choctail” line up of truffles. The Choctails include Amaretto Truffles, Kahlua Truffles, Chocolate Mudslide Truffles, Grand Marnier Truffles, Pina Colada Truffles and Irish Cream Truffles (all virgin, of course). Stop by and see them for a whole new way to experience Happy Hour today! For more information, call 417.691.8504. Joplin Area Habitat for Humanity is hosting its 4th Annual A Brush with Kindness event September 24 at Landreth Park at 8 am. They will help homeowners who are in need of light exterior repairs, weatherization or yard work. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Kelsey Milholland at 417.782.6533, ext. 7, or sign up at joplinhabitat.org. KAB Electric is expanding its services in solar panel technology. They can complete the project from design build, panel and equipment installation, and the final electrical hook up. They offer full-service in battery and/or generator backup power for the solar panel system. KAB Electric is currently

Ben Miller, CPA, has established a new Joplin-area CPA firm, W. Ben Miller, CPA LLC. Ben has extensive experience providing audit, tax and accounting assistance to smalland medium-sized businesses as well as not-for-profit organizations. Contact Ben at 417.674.1213 or cpabenmiller@ gmail.com to set an appointment. The Missouri Community College Association awarded Branco Enterprises with the Distinguished Business/Industry Award. This award is presented annually to individuals and/or businesses that have engaged in significant partnerships with their local community college to stimulate economic activity and support community college students and programs. For more information, go to www.branco.com. Active Lifestyle Events Inc., the organization behind Joplin Memorial Marathon, presented a check for $40,000 to Freeman Health System’s Bill & Virginia Leffen Center for Autism August 15. It is the second installment of a $100,000 pledge. Funds were raised during the annual Joplin Memorial Marathon. For more information, go to www.freemanhealth. com. Students injured in Friday night football matchups or other fall sports have access to orthopaedic specialists on Saturday mornings. Whether injured during practice or competition, Freeman Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine will evaluate students free of charge. The clinic is open through October 22 to middle school, high school and college athletes who were injured during the previous week’s activities. For more information, go to www.freemanhealth.com. The Alliance of Southwest Missouri hosts Joplin High School football game tailgate events for students and parents September 2, 16 and 30. Tailgating is 4-6:30 pm in front of the football stadium. Tailgating activities include a drunk goggle course, puzzle activity, wrecked cars, fire prevention smoke house and more. Activities are geared to reach students and parents about issues surrounding impaired driving, driving without a seatbelt, fire safety and more. For more information, call 417.782.9899. Tri-State Area Contractors Association, Inc., will host its 15th Annual Pig Roast September 15 from 6-10 pm at 5305 County Road 175 in Carthage. $25 per person (designated drivers get $5 off). For more information, call 417.627.9392. Restaurateurs, don't miss the September 14 presentation on the U.S. Labor Department’s Changes to the Salaried Overtime Exemption by Missouri Restaurant Association’s CEO Bob Bonney. The presentation is at 2 pm in The Trolley Room at Granny Shaffer’s, 2728 North Range Line Road. RSVP to

Business Outlook

SLuke@MoRestaurants.org or call 417.894.3512.

George Washington Carver National Monument released a new promotional short video, “Discover George Washington Carver National Monument.” The five-minute film provides an overview of the site’s history and resources to engage the public. It is available on the park’s YouTube and Facebook pages. The film can be purchased at the park bookstore through the Carver Birthplace Association. For more information, call 417.325.4151.

September 2016

offering a free consultation and estimate on businesses, homes and rural outbuildings. Rebates and tax incentives are still available for solar power installations completed in 2016. For more information, call 417.649.6057.

On August 31, the Joplin Proud committee, along with representatives from State Farm Insurance and Walmart, dedicated a tile mural in the new City of Joplin Mercy Park. The Butterfly Mural is a 10-feet tall by 20-feet wide tile mural that features the colorful stretched-out wings of a butterfly. For more information, call 417.625.4789. Arvest Equipment Finance (AEF), a division of Arvest Bank, once again has received recognition from MonitorDaily, a leading publication of the equipment leasing and finance industry. Ranked No. 100 in 2014, AEF climbed to No. 93 in 2015. For more information, go to www.arvest.com. Manufacturing Day is a celebration of modern manufacturing meant to inspire the next generation of manufacturers. This year, Manufacturing Day is October 7. In support of Manufacturing Day, Missouri Enterprise is offering manufacturers a banner to place inside or outside their facility, free of charge. The banner is 8’ x 2’ and has grommets on all four corners. They will add your logo to personalize it for you. And if you are not a manufacturer but want a banner, it will say “Proud Supporter of Manufacturing.” For more information, call 417.429.6066. You are invited to a free Compassion Fatigue Prevention & Resilience Workshop sponsored by the Joplin Area Ministerial Alliance. The workshop is October 4, 8:30 am-12:30 pm at the Chamber office. RSVP to danking@cableone.net or 417.439.1206. Farrell Construction, Inc., recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. Farrell Construction is a third-generation familyowned construction company specializing in commercial construction, design-build and property development. The company recently purchased True Style Homes and launched Solar Energy Systems. For more information, call 417.825.4058.

The Chamber is interested in your business. If you won an award, opened another office or are planning an event, let us know. We want to share your accomplishments and events with your fellow members! For our next issue, submit your announcement to wendy@joplincc.com by September 10. Please include “Our Members Announce” in the email subject line. Find all our members in our online Membership Directory.

September 2016

Business Outlook

Welcome New Members

First Financial Group Financial and Financial Advisors 705 Illinois Avenue, Suite 10B Joplin, MO 64801 417.553.4815 www.ffg-llc.com Gary W. Larson, Advisor Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

On Your Left Marketing Marketing/Internet Consulting 2825 East 17th Street Joplin, MO 64804 417.622.9697 www.onyourleftmarketing.com Curtis Miller, Owner Sponsors: Larry Chalmers, Shield Financial; Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Maningas Cosmetic Surgery Plastic Surgery 620 West 32nd Street, Suite B Joplin, MO 64804 417.437.0303 www.mcosmeticsurgery.com Aimee Maningas, Practice Manager Talon Maningas, D.O., Owner Sponsors: Nancy Johnson, Frank W. Shagets, Jr., M.D., P.C.; Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Midwest IT Services Computer-Services/Software/Products P.O. Box 154 Neosho, MO 64850-0154 417.451.9184 www.midwest-it.com Lynette Brown, Owner Charlie Brown, Owner Sponsor: Skyler Powers, Toner Connection

4 State Staffing Employment Agencies 2131 East 32nd Street, Suite 1 Joplin, MO 64804 417.621.0520 www.4statestaffing.com Bonnie Thurman, Manager Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Domino's Pizza #1542 Restaurant/Bar 2316 South Maiden Lane Joplin, MO 64804 417.623.5211 www.dominos.com Emily Elwell, Owner/Franchisee Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce W. Ben Miller, CPA LLC Accounting Services 103 Jason Blvd. Webb City, MO 64870 417.674.1213 www.cpabenmiller.com Ben Miller, CPA, Owner Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce 10

Nutrition Rehab Health Foods and Supplies 2217 South Main Street, Suite A Joplin, MO 64804 918.729.0963 Aaron Haight, Wellness Coach Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce The Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Board of Directors and staff are pleased to welcome our newest Chamber members. Please keep these and all members in mind when looking for goods and services. Visit the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s online member directory at cca.joplincc.com/businesssearch.aspx. Invite your clients or vendors to join your 5-Star Accredited Chamber. Contact Membership Sales Strategist Jim Kesler at 417.624.4150 or jkesler@joplincc.com.

Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry Advocacy Mission to Washington D.C. Sept. 20-22 Be part of the annual group of Missouri delegates of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry Advocacy Mission to Washington D.C. The Missouri delegation will meet with members of Missouri's congressional delegation and discuss, in person, federal issues that impact Missouri's business community.

THANK YOU FOR RENEWING ABE Painting.................................................................... 2012

KOA Kampground......................................................... 2004

Advanced Family Medicine & Wellness Center... 1999

Living Green Interior Landscaping, Inc................. 2011

The Alliance of Southwest Missouri........................ 1999

Millennium Tennis & Fitness Club, LLC.................. 1999

Anchor Stone Company.............................................. 2015

Oasis Salon & Day Spa.................................................. 2001

Aspire of Southwest Missouri.................................... 2010

Pittsburg State University - University

Sharon Beshore.............................................................. 2009

Advancement.................................................................. 2007

Binky Guy Custom T's.................................................. 2011

Premier Surgical Institute........................................... 2015

Bourne Logistics Management, Inc........................ 2013

S&S Security Systems.................................................... 2001

Cartridge World.............................................................. 2006

Schlotzsky's Deli............................................................. 1995

Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics.................. 2013

SCORE of Southwest Missouri................................... 2014

Choice Technology, LLC............................................. 2013

Shield Financial.............................................................. 2011

Crabby's Seafood Bar & Grill..................................... 2015

Silver Creek Assisted Living........................................ 2001

Elite Promotions, Inc.................................................... 2015

Sophie, LLC...................................................................... 2007

Enterprise Rent-A-Car.................................................. 1993

Star Mechanical/Wholesale Supply......................... 2012

Federal Protection, Inc................................................. 1999

The Stevenson Law Office, P.C.................................. 2013

Home Instead Senior Care......................................... 2011

The Titanic Museum Attraction................................ 2010

Hunter & Millard Architects, Inc............................... 2014

Uncommon Orthodontics.......................................... 2014

J.E. Dunn Construction Co......................................... 2011

Viking Line, Inc., dba Viking Trailways................... 1989

September 2016

Business Outlook

Joplin Industrial Electric, Inc..................................... 1986

Leadership Joplin 2017 – Engaging Future Community Leaders Applications coming soon The Leadership Joplin program provides a foundation for participants to expand their current leadership roles in the community. During the six-month course, class members develop a broad appreciation of our unique quality of life as well as an understanding of the complex opportunities they face as stewards of the community. Do you aspire to become an outstanding leader? Are you interested in cultivating productive professional relationships and a professional presence? Then LJ 2017 is the program for you! Begins in January │ 12 Sessions │ Concludes in June │ Motive Matters Color Code Training

The Leadership Joplin program was awarded the Programs & Campaigns Award of Excellence at the 2015 Chamber of Commerce Executives of Missouri (CCEM). This will be our 34th year with more than 850 community leaders graduating from the program. For questions, contact Ginger LaMar at 417.624.4150 or glamar@joplincc.com.

September 2016

Business Outlook

Problem-Solving Tips for Business

By Karen Bradshaw, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at Missouri Southern State University

"Problems are only opportunities in work clothes." Henri Kaiser Business owners and managers are faced with many problems and make many decisions each day. Given the competitive business environment each company faces, the ability to analyze each situation and come up with a game plan is paramount. Considering the competitive environment, government regulations, new technology, globalization, innovations and an array of other uncertainties business owners face, it can be quite challenging to deal with the many unforeseen problems that appear. Being able to creatively solve problems is a very valuable skill to master and can make the future of your business more stable. Oftentimes in business, it’s hard to see “the forest for the trees.” A situation may exist in which you can’t figure out what the real problem is, let alone find a good solution to the problem. Following are some tips to help you with problem solving in business. 1. Carefully define and clarify the problem. Ask yourself why you see the current situation as a problem. What are the circumstances of the situation? How did this happen? When and where is this problem occurring? Why do you think there is a problem? Is this part of a trend or a larger situation? 2. Consider the possibility that the situation you are dealing with may not actually be a problem after all; it may be an opportunity in disguise. Oftentimes our view of the world makes us see certain situations in a negative light. Clearly look at the situation for what it is. Challenge your pre-conceived ideas. 3. Examine the potential cause of the problem. This can be useful when you are trying to find a good solution. What is the root cause of the problem? Seek advice and input from other people as to the potential causes of the problem so that you can see the situation from other points of view. As Peter Drucker said, “The most serious mistakes are not being made as a result of wrong answers. The truly dangerous thing is asking the wrong questions." 4. Brainstorm and generate ideas in order to find as many

solutions to the problem as possible. Once again, make certain to get the input of others so you have as many ideas as possible to choose from. Make certain to not discount any ideas at first; you want to have many alternatives. Write down all ideas. 5. Evaluate ideas and prioritize potential solutions to the problem. Which solution is the most realistic choice that will not only solve the problem now, but have the best long-term effect on your company? Which solution is the most affordable, feasible and realistic solution that can be achieved in a reasonable amount of time? 6. Select the best solution to your problem and develop a plan to help you implement your solution. You will need to communicate with other people to assist you in this effort to complete your plan. You will need to examine the resources needed and a time needed to accomplish your plan. Use your best ideas. 7. Implement your plan. If you are not the only person working on the resolution of the problem, then you will need to assign responsibility to individuals and effectively communicate your plans and expectations. 8. Monitor and measure the implementation of your plan to solve the problem. Remember, you will need to continue to observe whether your plan is working and to get regular feedback about the process. Always consider if the problem was actually solved. Companies face a variety of problems on a daily basis. Having a systematic method of trying to solve problems can help you clarify the real issues and develop workable solutions. Remember, what starts out as a problem may actually be an opportunity. A new competitor may result in your company revising its outdated marketing plan and thereby increase sales. Declining sales may encourage managers to look at their product offerings and start selling new profitable product lines. New government regulations may force your company to look at revising its business operations and thereby increase sales. “The significant problems we face cannot be solved at the same level of thinking we were at when we created them." Albert Einstein

Business Outlook September 2016

Joplin Metro Area Top Place for Logistics & Quality of Living Business Facilities Magazine has named the Joplin metro area as a “Top Ten” place in two areas in its recently released 12th Annual Metro Rankings Report. The Joplin Metro area was ranked seventh in the magazine’s Logistics Leaders of the locations that have “tremendous assets serving all modes of transportation: air, land, water and rail.” Memphis, Tennessee, was ranked first. Business Facilities ranked Joplin eighth in its Quality of Life ranking. The magazine looked at cost of living and economic growth potential, among other factors. Oklahoma City was ranked first in the quality of life ranking. “With a central U.S. location, excellent Interstate and rail service, access to three regional airports and a new intermodal facility in the works, it is clear why Business Facilities gave our metro area Top Ten ranking for logistics," said Rob O’Brian, president of Joplin Regional Partnership. “Along with that, people across our entire three-state region have long enjoyed a low cost of living and a wide array of amenities and education options that enhance our quality of life.”

Business Facilities looks at all 380 metro areas in the U.S. and rates metro areas on nearly 20 categories from quality of living to entrepreneurial development to economic growth. Business Facilities is a leading full-service media brand specializing in the site selection marketplace.

Hot Links 2016 Championship Flight

1st: Freeman Health System Jeff Carrier Brandon Gibson Bob Stauffer Todd Twiss

A Flight

1st: Keller Williams Seth Dermott Steve Johnson Dustin Johnson Tim Breedlove

B Flight

1st: Rib Crib

Eric Esposito Lee Goodman Joey Gorenc Tim Windsor

2nd: Cartridge World

2nd: KOAM-TV/FOX 14

2nd: Independent Living Center

3rd: Arvest Chad Evans Kasey Cowger Blake Bard Donny Allen

3rd: MSSU Kevin Greim Derek Skaggs Ronnie Ressel Tom Rutledge

3rd: Lakeland Office Systems Mike Booe Nick Booe Darrell Dudley Bob Tyson

JC Burd Dantley Harbin Paul Ashe Dana Meadows

Closest to Pin: Jeff Carrier

Mike Olmstead Steve Holinsworth David Fink Russell Schaap

Kristi Benefiel Kay Smith Dawn Smith Marti Shelton

Longest Drive: Daniel Turner

Thank you to our Hot Links 2016 Sponsors for another great tournament! Presenting Sponsors: Downstream Casino Resort & Freeman Health System Gold Sponsor: Joplin Supply Company Lunch Sponsor: Rib Crib Breakfast Sponsor: Panera Hole in One Sponsor: Roper Honda Cart Sponsor: Missouri Southern State University T-shirt Sponsor: Binky Guy Custom T's

September 2016

Business Outlook

GREAT JACC Opportunities to Get Your Business Name Out There JACC 100th ANNUAL BANQUET 2017

This is an evening of celebrating events and honoring accomplishments from the past year, such as Golden Apple, Small Business of the Year and our Citizen of the Year.

FIRST FRIDAY COFFEE & BUSINESS AFTER HOURS These networking events are held monthly and are extremely popular and fun. If you have ample space to have 125-plus JACC members come through your doors, you can be a host sponsor. These events are reserved several months in advance, so call today to find out how you can get yours!

BUSINESS EXPO 2017 Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce 25th Annual Business EXPO January 24 & 25, 2017 Downstream Casino Resort’s Grand Pavilion Tuesday, January 24, 2017 - noon – 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, January 25, 2017 - 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sponsorships Available

BUSINESS OUTLOOK DIGITAL NEWSLETTER The newsletter is emailed to over 2,700 individual JACC members at the beginning of each month. Your current digital and print advertisements should be reaching your fellow Chamber members via this informational newsletter that contains great highlights and features such as ribbon cuttings, “Message from our President” and "Our Members Announce.”

For more information, contact Jim Kesler, Membership Sales Strategist at 417.624.4150 or jkesler@joplincc.com.

CHAMBER CONNECTION A fantastic way to meet and get to know other JACC members in our quarterly event held at the Chamber office. It gives participants an opportunity to enhance their networking skills and perfect their “elevator speech.”

LEADERSHIP JOPLIN This is a 6-month program in its 34th year with more than 875 graduates. It teaches and motivates future community leaders through a 12-session curriculum that includes leadership development and Missouri Public Policy. There are several great sponsorship opportunities that can get you in front of this dynamic group of leaders.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT TABLE The perfect way for you to create your “store window” right here in our main lobby for a full month. We will even keep it neat and your promotional information stocked for you, so that everyone who comes to our JACC office can learn more about your business’ products and services. And you won’t believe how inexpensive it is!

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK This is a vibrant and active group of area professionals, ages 21-40, who are doing great things in our community. There are many ways to support this program and its members’ positive work, including scholarships.

September 2016

Business Outlook

September 2016

Business Outlook

Small Business & Technology Development Center Missouri Southern State University The Robert W. Plaster School of Business 3950 Newman Road, Joplin, MO 64801-1512 Phone: 417.625.3128 Fax: 417.625.9782

STARTING A SMALL BUSINESS: THE FIRST STEPS BEFORE YOU START A BUSINESS

CUSTOMER SERVICE: DOES IT STILL EXIST?

(Participants will have an opportunity to assess their

importance of customer service and tips for improving and

business idea, learn about the importance of planning,

implementing great customer service in any organization.)

discuss legal and regulatory requirements, learn about marketing strategies and identify sources of financing. Each participant will receive a start-up manual.)

September 16 (Friday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, MSSU Cost: $29 per business

(This workshop will present ideas to participants about the

September 20 (Tuesday), 11:45 am-1 pm Location: Carthage Water and Electric Plant, 627 West Centennial Ave., Carthage Cost: $10 includes lunch (pre-registration required)

Find the full schedule of workshops at www.mssutraining.com.

STATE OF THE LOCAL ECONOMY: A REPORT FROM YOUR CHAMBER

MSA is comprised of Jasper and Newton counties. Information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Six Steps to Small Business Success

Presented by Sean Manning, CPA, author: Six Steps to Small Business Success with guest speaker Malvina Messler, Executive VP of Business Development

September 2016

Business Outlook

Join Us at The Endzone

and Learn How to Take Your Business to the Next Level! The Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a special presentation at The Endzone by CEO, author, and CPA, Sean Manning. Sean will be joined by business development expert Malvina Messler, who will present secrets on building relationships and growing a business. The Six Steps to Small Business Success presentation is designed to give the audience the necessary tools, guidance, and knowledge to take their small business goals and make them a successful reality.

DATE: October 28th TIME: 9am-2pm (Lunch provided) LOCATION: The Endzone Facility Missouri Southern State University 3950 Newman Road Joplin, MO 64801 COST: $49.00 RSVP: (417) 624-4150 | www.joplincc.com Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce (417) 623-0941 - Payroll Vault

Sean Manning CPA & CEO

Malvina Messler Executive VP of Business Development

PRESENTATION SPONSORS: â&#x201E;˘

Client Focused. Technology Driven.

P A Y R O L L R E - D E F I N E D.

September 2016

Business Outlook Insurance you can design to meet your ever-changing needs. • Business or Commercial • Call for a Farmers Friendly Review® • Evening Appointments

LINDA TEETER, LUTCF www.farmersagent.com/lteeter 1321 ILLINOIS AVE • JOPLIN, MO 64801

Call 417-781-4820 today for Auto, Home, Life and Business.

Audio / Video Systems Pro Audio Equipment Camera Systems Healthcare Communications

Elite Commercial Audio/Video Sales & Service Toll Free: 800-621-5256 Local: 417-869-0770 aaius.com proaudiosuperstore.com 2120 S. Roosevelt Suite 3 Joplin, MO 64804

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED: DOL Requires All U.S. Employers to Update Federal Posters

Replace your posters now to stay compliant! Contact Payroll Vault today to get your new poster. Phone: 417.623.0941 Email: j.d.buckridge@ payrollvault.com

First (Second) Friday Coffee

Friday, September 9 7:30-8:30 a.m.

Good Morning Joplin Thursday, September 15 7:15-9 a.m. Presented by