Talent & Workforce Development Archives - York County Regional Chamber of Commerce - SC

The Curiosity Code: Why Asking Better Questions Beats Having All the Answers

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 13:38:24 +0000

The Curiosity Code: Why Asking Better Questions Beats Having All the Answers

October 14, 2025

Leaders often feel pressure to have answers, but the best ones know how to ask better questions.
Curiosity builds stronger teams, fuels innovation, and keeps organizations adaptable.
The smartest leaders reward inquiry, not just results.
Create “question habits” in meetings, metrics, and mentoring to strengthen learning and trust.
The bottom line: In times of change, curiosity is not a soft skill. It is how leaders stay ahead.

606 words ~ 3 min. read

Leaders are often taught to act fast and have the right answer. It is what earns trust, gets promotions, and keeps things moving. But today’s challenges change too quickly for any one person to always know what is right. The leaders who thrive in this environment are the ones who stay curious. They ask better questions before rushing to conclusions.

Harvard Business Review calls curiosity “the hidden catalyst of innovation.” Teams led by curious leaders perform better, trust each other more, and come up with stronger ideas. Still, many organizations accidentally discourage curiosity in the name of efficiency. Meetings become status updates instead of conversations. Strategy sessions confirm what people already believe instead of exploring new possibilities. Over time, teams get faster at execution but weaker at learning.

Curiosity as a Leadership Practice

Curiosity is not a personality trait. It is a leadership practice that can be developed. You see it in how leaders frame discussions, respond to feedback, and shape culture.

Curious leaders do not ask, “Who messed this up?” They ask, “What can we learn from this?” They do not start with, “What’s the solution?” They start with, “What don’t we understand yet?”

At Pixar, leaders protect a process called the Braintrust. Teams share unfinished work and critique it together, not to assign blame, but to make the story stronger. Everyone checks their ego at the door. The only goal is learning. That is curiosity in action, and it is part of why Pixar has produced decades of creative success.

How to Build Curiosity Into the System

Curiosity cannot rely on a few good leaders. It has to live in the organization’s systems and routines. Here are three ways to make it real.

1. Create space for questions.
Add a few minutes in every meeting for open inquiry. Ask things like, “What assumptions might be wrong?” or “What are we not seeing yet?” When leaders model this, others feel permission to think out loud.

2. Reward exploration, not just results.
Performance reviews often focus only on outcomes. Add a new measure: who experimented, sought feedback, or reframed a problem. Recognizing these behaviors sends a clear message that curiosity counts.

3. Listen to understand.
Curiosity fades fast when people feel unheard. Teach managers to listen not to respond, but to understand. That small shift builds trust and encourages more honest conversations.

The Bottom Line

Curiosity does not mean avoiding decisions. It means making smarter ones. In a business world that is constantly shifting, curiosity is the leader’s most reliable tool. It drives learning, builds connection, and keeps teams moving forward together.

The strongest organizations are not led by people who always have the right answers. They are led by people who keep asking the right questions.

About the York County Regional Chamber

The York County Regional Chamber of Commerce is made up of more than 700 member firms employing more than 35,000 individuals and is the largest business organization in its four-county region of SC. Serving the Fort Mill, Rock Hill, Tega Cay, and greater York areas, the Chamber exists to connect its members to valuable resources and to serve as the voice of the regional business community.

The post The Curiosity Code: Why Asking Better Questions Beats Having All the Answers appeared first on York County Regional Chamber of Commerce - SC.

How Teaching Your Team to Sell Drives Every Metric Up

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 15:58:23 +0000

How Teaching Your Team to Sell Drives Every Metric Up

September 15, 2025

Mollie Rose

Growth-minded companies train everyone, not just the sales team, to understand the basics of selling.
Every employee interaction with customers, partners, or community stakeholders can be a growth opportunity.
Sales skills foster confidence, empathy, and better communication, which boosts performance across all roles.
The payoff: stronger culture, deeper client loyalty, and measurable revenue growth.

574 words ~ 3 min. read

+++

Most leaders view sales as the responsibility of one department. Sales teams chase leads, close deals, and push revenue forward while the rest of the organization focuses on operations, service, or support. But here’s the truth: when sales skills are seen as universal, not specialized, they become a growth multiplier for the entire company.

At its core, selling is not about closing a transaction. It is about listening, understanding needs, and connecting solutions to problems. Those same skills show up in customer service, project management, product design, and leadership. By instilling basic sales training across your team, you equip every employee to see their work as part of a larger growth story.

Think about what happens when customer-facing staff in accounting, operations, or service know how to uncover needs. Instead of just processing an invoice, an employee recognizes an opportunity to recommend a bundled service or flag an upcoming renewal. Instead of handling a complaint with defensiveness, a frontline worker sees it as a chance to retain loyalty and potentially upsell. Even in back-office roles, sales skills improve communication with colleagues, drive collaboration, and sharpen the ability to advocate for ideas.

For many companies, the barrier to growth is not a lack of opportunity. It is a lack of awareness. Employees who do not see themselves as “salespeople” miss moments that could deepen customer relationships or open new revenue doors. Training your team to sell reframes this. It creates a shared language around value, urgency, and problem-solving. Over time, that shared mindset strengthens culture because people start connecting their day-to-day actions to organizational success.

Leaders play a decisive role in this shift. When executives champion sales skills as part of professional development, they signal that growth is everyone’s job. When managers celebrate moments where non-sales staff uncover opportunities, they reinforce a culture that rewards curiosity and initiative. Without this top-down encouragement, even the best training risks being treated as optional.

The payoff extends beyond revenue. Customers feel the difference when every interaction is rooted in listening and value. Instead of being shuffled between departments, they encounter a unified team that understands their needs and responds with solutions. This builds trust, loyalty, and long-term partnerships that are far more valuable than one-time transactions.

The key is not to make everyone a quota-carrying salesperson. Rather, it is about giving your team the ability to recognize and act on moments of influence. Basic training in questioning techniques, active listening, and value articulation is often enough to shift mindsets. From there, role-specific application ensures that sales skills do not feel bolted on but embedded into daily work.

The companies that thrive in competitive markets are those that understand growth is not a department. It is a culture. Leaders who teach every employee how to sell are not just building revenue pipelines. They are cultivating ambassadors who can champion the organization’s value at every turn.

The Bottom Line

Sales training is not an isolated investment in one department. It is a cultural strategy that multiplies impact across your organization. By equipping every employee with basic sales skills, you create a workforce that listens better, communicates more clearly, and strengthens relationships. Customers win through better service and personalized solutions. Employees win through confidence and ownership. And organizations win through loyalty and growth that compound over time. If you want growth to be more than a number, make sales everyone’s responsibility.

About the York County Regional Chamber

The post How Teaching Your Team to Sell Drives Every Metric Up appeared first on York County Regional Chamber of Commerce - SC.

Blueprint 2035: Shaping South Carolina’s Economic Future

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 15:44:06 +0000

Blueprint 2035: Shaping South Carolina’s Economic Future

September 2, 2025

Mollie Rose

Blueprint 2035: Shaping South Carolina’s Economic Future

South Carolina is at a pivotal point in its economic growth. With one of the fastest-growing populations in the nation and a thriving business community, our state has an opportunity to not just keep pace—but to lead. That’s the vision behind Blueprint 2035: A Roadmap for South Carolina’s Economic Future, an initiative of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce that aims to ensure long-term prosperity through thoughtful planning, strategic investment, and bold policy solutions.

Gathering Local Input: York County’s Role

Recently, the York County Regional Chamber in partnership with the SC Chamber of Commerce hosted a forum where local business leaders had the chance to engage with Blueprint 2035 and share their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities shaping South Carolina’s future economy. As part of the session, participants completed a live survey that revealed some of the most pressing issues our business community is facing.

Here’s what they had to say—and how the Chamber is responding:

What’s driving the skills shortage?

54 respondents identified a misalignment between education programs and employer needs.
- How we’re addressing it: The Chamber is tackling this challenge head-on through our Leadership Institute For Talent (LIFT) programs, including Business Expedition and EPIC, which connect students directly with career pathways and ensure educational programs align with workforce needs.
31 respondents pointed to childcare and caregiving responsibilities as a major barrier keeping individuals out of the workforce.
- How we’re addressing it: The Chamber is deeply engaged in these conversations and leading efforts to identify solutions. Recently, our Vice President of Talent & Workforce Development, Celeste Tiller, was selected by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to participate in a national Master Class through the Business Leads Fellowship Program - bringing together business leaders from across the country to explore innovative, community-based childcare solutions.

What’s one big policy change that could supercharge SC’s economy?

The overwhelming response: Tax reform.
- How we’re addressing it: The Chamber continues to advocate for pro-business policies that create a competitive climate for growth, investment, and innovation.

What’s the biggest risk to maintaining economic momentum in SC?

33 respondents cited workforce shortages.
- How we’re addressing it: Workforce is consistently the highest priority for York County businesses—and with good reason. While baby boomers continue retiring, birth rates are falling, and four-year college enrollment is declining, many employers struggle to identify, train, attract, and retain the workers they need. Under LIFT, the Chamber has developed a comprehensive set of strategies to strengthen our talent pipeline.

View the full presentation and survey responses here.

A Shared Path Forward

These real-time responses highlight the connection between the challenges our local businesses face and the statewide priorities outlined in Blueprint 2035. From workforce development and tax reform to infrastructure and innovation, it’s clear that South Carolina’s economic future depends on collaborative solutions.

The York County Regional Chamber is proud to play a role in this effort—supporting our local businesses while contributing to the broader statewide vision of making South Carolina the best place to live, work, and do business.

Looking Ahead

Blueprint 2035 is more than a plan; it’s a call to action. By aligning education with employer needs, addressing workforce barriers, advocating for smart policies, and preparing for future opportunities, we are setting the stage for long-term prosperity.

And right here in York County, we’re committed to ensuring that our businesses not only have a seat at the table but a strong voice in shaping the future of South Carolina’s economy.

Next up, we are hosting our signature Workforce Development event, Talent Flow: Aligning Talent Through Regional Collaboration. Featuring keynote speaker Dr. Rebecca Battle-Bryant, Director of Statewide Workforce Development, this event brings together education, business, and community leaders to explore innovative solutions to our region’s workforce challenges. You’ll also gain insight into real-world strategies for addressing barriers like childcare, housing, and skills gaps—critical components to strengthening and sustaining a resilient talent pipeline. Learn more here!

The post Blueprint 2035: Shaping South Carolina’s Economic Future appeared first on York County Regional Chamber of Commerce - SC.

Mark Pursley Graduates from Institute for Organization Management

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 14:28:10 +0000

Mark Pursley Graduates from Institute for Organization Management

June 26, 2025

A Leadership Training Program Produced by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Institute for Organization Management, the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is pleased to announce that Mark Pursley, IOM, Director of Programs & External Affairs, of the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce, has graduated from the program and has received the recognition of IOM. Awarded to all graduates of the Institute program, the IOM Graduate Recognition signifies the individual’s completion of 96 credit hours of course instruction in non-profit management. In addition, participants can earn credit hours towards the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) or Certified Association Executive (CAE), certifications. Nearly 1,000 individuals attend Institute annually.

“Institute graduates are recognized across the country as leaders in their industries and organizations,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, the U.S. Chamber’s Vice President of Institute for Organization Management. “These individuals have the knowledge, skills, and dedication necessary to achieve professional and organizational success in the dynamic association and chamber industries.”

Since its commencement in 1921, the Institute program has been educating tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates. Institute’s curriculum consists of four weeklong sessions at four different university locations throughout the country. Through a combination of required courses and electives in areas such as leadership, advocacy, marketing, finance, and membership, Institute participants are able to enhance their own organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and effectively.

“Graduating from this Southeast Institute for Organization Management isn’t the finish line - it’s a new starting point. I’ve grown in ways that will help me continue to learn, keep leading, and give back to the community that has helped shape me.” said Mark Pursley, IOM.

Institute for Organization Management is the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. It is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business organization representing companies of all sizes across every sector of the economy. Our members range from the small businesses and local chambers of commerce that line the Main Streets of America to leading industry associations and large corporations.

institute.uschamber.com @IOMeducates

###

The post Mark Pursley Graduates from Institute for Organization Management appeared first on York County Regional Chamber of Commerce - SC.

Ones to Watch Profile: Allison Terry

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Mon, 19 May 2025 16:05:02 +0000

Ones to Watch Profile: Allison Terry

May 19, 2025

Allison Terry is a standout leader at York Technical College — recently promoted to Department Chair for Building and Construction Trades thanks to her exceptional leadership, work ethic, and commitment to student success. But it’s her role as Director of SkillsUSA that has made her a true force across campus and beyond.

Since taking on the role just two years ago, Allison has:

Grown student participation from 17 to over 50 competitors at the state level.
Guided students to 27 gold, 15 silver, and 8 bronze medals across 25 competition categories in 2025.
Mentored two national SkillsUSA officers from York Tech — a first for the College.
Launched South Carolina’s first collegiate SkillsUSA leadership chapter, which earned state and national recognition in its first year.

Under Allison’s leadership, York Tech’s SkillsUSA students are not only winning — they’re growing. Many gain critical soft skills in public speaking, leadership, and teamwork, all while representing their programs on a national stage.

Outside of SkillsUSA, Allison leads students in building two homes annually for donation to i58 Mission, providing affordable housing to local families in need. She also volunteers at every fundraiser and serves as a trusted mentor to both students and colleagues alike.

In 2024, she was named SC SkillsUSA Advisor of the Year and Region 2 National Advisor of the Year — recognitions that reflect her profound impact on students, faculty, and the York County community.

Allison Terry is more than one to watch — she’s one making a difference every single day.

The post Ones to Watch Profile: Allison Terry appeared first on York County Regional Chamber of Commerce - SC.

Winthrop Students Tackle Real-World Marketing Challenge in EPIC Competition

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Thu, 01 May 2025 12:40:15 +0000

Winthrop Students Tackle Real-World Marketing Challenge in EPIC Competition

May 1, 2025

Winthrop Students Tackle Real-World Marketing Challenge in EPIC Competition Sponsored by York County Natural Gas Authority and York County Regional Chamber

Eight interdisciplinary student teams from Winthrop University recently competed in the Employer Provided Innovation Challenge (EPIC), a collaborative initiative designed to empower students to solve real-world business challenges. This semester’s challenge, sponsored by York County Natural Gas Authority (YCNGA) in partnership with the York County Regional Chamber (YCRC) and Winthrop University, tasked students with answering a complex question: How can a natural gas company effectively promote its environmental benefits to their customers while addressing common misconceptions about natural gas?

Combining storytelling, research, marketing strategy, and communication tactics, students in Professor Erin Patel’s Marketing 380 course rose to the occasion. Their innovative campaigns featured everything from data-driven survey analysis and brand redesigns to engaging slogans, mascot concepts, and promotional videos.

“This partnership reflects the kind of collaboration that drives meaningful change in our community,” said Celeste Tiller, Vice President of Talent and Workforce Development at YCRC. “By bringing together industry leaders, educational institutions, and the Chamber, we are equipping students with the tools they need to succeed while strengthening the future workforce of York County.”

The YCNGA team was equally inspired by the students’ creativity and commitment. “We were blown away by the professionalism and fresh thinking the students brought to the table,” said Hannah Smith, Marketing Manager at YCNGA. “Their ability to take a complex topic like natural gas and turn it into compelling, informative campaigns with ideas that we could readily implement into our existing strategies was incredibly impressive. Programs like EPIC are not just beneficial for students—they provide real value to businesses like ours.”

A panel of natural gas and marketing experts from YCNGA reviewed each team’s presentation. Awards were granted to the top three teams, who earned cash prizes for their innovative work:

1st Place ($1,000): Ne’Vaeh Walker, Prema Van Deren, Tylique Smith, and Joseph McGrath
2nd Place ($750): Amelie Tolf, Gracee Nelson, Claire Meuret, and Jay Hayes
3rd Place ($500): Zach Cunard and Lily Beirne

Adjunct Professor Erin Patel, who mentored the student teams alongside Tiller, Becky Ross (Director for Winthrop’s Center for Career Development & Internships), and Smith and Barry Duncan (Director of Business Development) from YCNGA, expressed her pride in the students’ work.

“It was a tremendous opportunity to enable my students to practice marketing principles in depth and bring them to life—even though they just learned these concepts this semester,” said Patel. “They conducted surveys using Qualtrics, created mascots, rebranded messaging, and produced videos—applying classroom lessons with creativity and professionalism. I couldn’t be prouder.”

As part of its Talent & Workforce mission, the York County Regional Chamber plays a vital role in building and supporting a strong local workforce. One example of this work is EPIC, which was developed in response to the limited capacity of traditional internships. Based on a model piloted by the U.S. Chamber Foundation, EPIC offers scalable, credentialed experiences that strengthen career readiness and deepen employer engagement.

Employers interested in engaging with EPIC or exploring workforce development solutions are encouraged to contact the York County Regional Chamber to learn how they can get involved.

York County Regional Chamber

The York County Regional Chamber (YCRC) is the connection between your business and our diverse and growing community. We provide resources, advocacy, relationships, and programs to help you capitalize on our region’s strengths. As the largest chamber in our SC region, we work in partnership with over 700 businesses and organizations from Fort Mill, Rock Hill, Tega Cay, and York. We are CACCE accredited and powered by a professional staff and a strong, diverse volunteer leadership team.

York County Natural Gas Authority

York County Natural Gas Authority (YCNGA) is a not-for-profit public utility serving over 75,000 customers across York County and parts of Cherokee County, South Carolina. Established in 1954, YCNGA is committed to delivering safe, reliable, and affordable energy solutions while investing in infrastructure, employees, and the community. Their Community Investment Initiative supports workforce development, education, and community enrichment. Recognized nationally for excellence in safety, leadership, and communications, YCNGA remains dedicated to empowering employees and fostering partnerships that enhance the quality of life for the communities it serves. Learn more about YCNGA here.

Winthrop University

Founded in 1886, Winthrop University is a four-year, top-ranked, mid-sized public regional comprehensive university that provides personalized and challenging undergraduate, graduate and professional education programs of national caliber in a variety of on-campus and online programs and modalities. Located in the heart of the Carolinas, Winthrop upholds a tradition of national caliber academics, championship athletics and a student-centered approach. The university provides an education that blends liberal arts, professional programs, global awareness and civic engagement with an emphasis on lifelong professional and personal development. Winthrop grants 46+ undergraduate degrees and more than 20 graduate degrees across four colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business and Technology, the Richard W. Riley College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences, and the College of Visual and Performing Arts. Beginning in fall 2025, an Honors College will be added to the academic offerings. Learn more about Winthrop here.

The post Winthrop Students Tackle Real-World Marketing Challenge in EPIC Competition appeared first on York County Regional Chamber of Commerce - SC.

How Small Businesses Can Lead Innovation

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 14:23:32 +0000

How Small Businesses Can Lead Innovation

April 29, 2025

Small businesses are driving innovation—embracing trends that fuel growth and resilience.
Sustainability is a competitive edge, as eco-conscious consumers demand greener products and practices.
E-commerce continues to grow, with social commerce and omnichannel strategies reshaping the landscape.
AI adoption is accelerating, streamlining operations, improving customer engagement, and enhancing decision-making.
Community-focused strategies build trust—hyperlocal marketing and partnerships strengthen customer loyalty.

635 words ~ 3 min. read

Small businesses have always been the heart of innovation, adapting quickly to change and shaping industries in unexpected ways. Now, a new wave of transformation is taking place—one driven by sustainability, evolving e-commerce strategies, artificial intelligence, and deeper community engagement. The businesses that embrace these trends won’t just survive; they’ll thrive.

Sustainability: More Than a Trend, a Competitive Edge

For years, large corporations have led the sustainability conversation, but today, small businesses are proving they can drive change just as effectively. Consumers increasingly seek out brands that align with their values, and sustainability is at the top of their priorities. According to a NielsenIQ study, 78% of consumers say a sustainable lifestyle is important to them.

For small businesses, this shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Those that commit to sustainable practices—whether by adopting eco-friendly packaging, reducing waste, or sourcing from ethical suppliers—are building long-term trust with their customers. More importantly, sustainability is no longer just a feel-good initiative; it’s a business advantage. Customers are willing to pay more for products they believe are making a difference, and small businesses that embrace this movement will attract and retain loyal buyers.

E-Commerce’s Continued Evolution

Online shopping has been growing for years, but in 2025, the landscape is shifting once again. It’s no longer just about having a website; it’s about being where the customers are—on social platforms, mobile devices, and in seamless digital experiences that connect online and offline shopping.

Social commerce, in particular, is becoming a dominant force. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest aren’t just for marketing anymore—they’re full-fledged shopping destinations. Consumers are making purchasing decisions in real-time, influenced by creators, peer reviews, and interactive content. According to Statista, global e-commerce sales are expected to reach $7.4 trillion in 2025, and small businesses that invest in social selling, mobile-friendly platforms, and omnichannel experiences will be the ones who capture that growth.

For small business owners, this means rethinking their approach. A well-optimized website is still essential, but so is an active presence on social media, easy checkout experiences, and strategies that connect digital and physical storefronts. The businesses that get this right will stay ahead of the curve.

AI for Any Business

For many small business owners, artificial intelligence once seemed like a tool reserved for tech giants. But now, AI is more accessible than ever, offering cost-effective solutions to streamline operations, improve customer engagement, and make smarter business decisions.

AI-powered chatbots are handling customer inquiries 24/7. Automated marketing tools are crafting personalized email campaigns with just a few clicks. Even customer service and inventory management are being optimized with AI-driven insights. The businesses that embrace these tools aren’t just saving time; they’re improving customer experiences and freeing up resources to focus on growth.

Platforms like Shopify Magic, ChatGPT, and HubSpot’s AI-powered CRM are making it easier for small businesses to integrate AI without needing a dedicated IT team. The key is to start small—automating one or two repetitive tasks—and gradually expanding AI’s role in the business. Those who do will be more agile, more efficient, and better equipped for long-term success.

Community Engagement: The Power of Local Connections

In a digital world, small businesses have a powerful advantage that big corporations often struggle with: the ability to build deep, meaningful relationships within their communities. More than ever, consumers want to support businesses that align with their values and contribute to something bigger than just profits.

Small businesses that invest in their local communities—by supporting local causes, partnering with nearby businesses, and engaging in hyperlocal marketing—are earning lasting customer loyalty. A Harvard Business Review study found that 64% of consumers prefer to buy from brands that share their values. When a business is seen as a key part of the community, customers become advocates, spreading word-of-mouth recommendations that no marketing budget can buy.

The Future Belongs to Those Who Innovate

The small businesses that will thrive in 2025 are the ones that recognize these shifts and take action. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a business advantage. E-commerce is no longer just a website—it’s a dynamic, social, and omnichannel experience. AI isn’t out of reach—it’s an essential tool for efficiency. And community engagement isn’t just goodwill—it’s a strategic move for brand loyalty.

The question isn’t whether these changes are happening—the question is whether small business owners are ready to embrace them. The future of business is here, and it belongs to those willing to innovate.

Further Reading:

About the York County Regional Chamber

The post How Small Businesses Can Lead Innovation appeared first on York County Regional Chamber of Commerce - SC.

LIFT: A Comprehensive Approach to Leadership and Talent Development

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 16:08:40 +0000

LIFT: A Comprehensive Approach to Leadership and Talent Development

April 1, 2025

The York County Regional Chamber (YCRC) proudly introduces LIFT – Leadership Institute for Talent, an innovative initiative uniting all Chamber leadership, workforce, and talent development programs. Designed to support individuals and organizations in cultivating leadership and addressing workforce challenges, LIFT provides tailored programs for every career stage, industry, and organizational need.

Building a Community of Leaders

LIFT offers a comprehensive framework to develop leaders and strengthen York County’s talent pipeline. Programs such as Leadership York County (LYCO), Leadership CORE, and Non-Profit Management Certification are designed to empower individuals and organizations at all levels.

While technical training is often readily available, leadership skills like inspiring trust, strategic planning, and team building are frequently overlooked. To bridge this gap, LIFT offers high-impact workshops and customized training led by Chamber professionals and top providers like Franklin Covey and the Disney Institute.

Strengthening York County’s Talent Pipeline

LIFT partners with local K-12 school districts and higher education institutions, including Clinton College, Winthrop University, and York Technical College, to build career pathways through internships, dual enrollment, and soft skills training. Programs like Employer Provided Innovation Challenges (EPIC) offer a standardized platform for employers and educators to deliver career-focused challenges, fostering awareness, exploration, and development.

Your Partner in Workforce and Leadership Development

LIFT is more than a set of programs; it is a commitment to building York County’s future leaders and solving workforce challenges. Through collaboration, skill-building, and employer support, LIFT positions York County as a hub for talent and leadership excellence.

Stay Tuned - More to Come!

---

About the York County Regional Chamber

The post LIFT: A Comprehensive Approach to Leadership and Talent Development appeared first on York County Regional Chamber of Commerce - SC.

Maker vs. Manager: Mastering Two Distinct Leadership Modes to Maximize Your Impact

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 17:36:33 +0000

Maker vs. Manager: Mastering Two Distinct Leadership Modes to Maximize Your Impact

March 18, 2025

Mollie Rose

Leaders wear two hats: Makers create; Managers coordinate. Each requires different energy and time structures.
Switching comes at a cost: Moving between modes drains productivity and increases burnout risk.
Design your schedule with intention: Block Maker time for focus, Manager time for collaboration.
Model healthy rhythms for your team: When leaders respect focus time, teams follow.

645 words ~ 3 min read

The Scenario: You’ve blocked off the morning to finally finish that big proposal. You’re ready to focus, dive deep, and knock it out. By 9:30 a.m., you’ve already been pulled into two quick meetings, responded to Slack messages, and answered a “just one quick thing” email. Suddenly it’s noon, and your deep work window is gone. Sound familiar?

For most leaders, this tension isn’t new. Balancing creation with coordination is the hallmark of modern leadership. But few people talk about how draining it can be to switch back and forth between these two distinct modes of work. As Alex Hormozi (https://www.acquisition.com/about-alex) puts it, success depends on recognizing—and respecting—the different demands of the Maker and Manager work styles.

Maker vs. Manager: Two Modes, Two Rhythms

The Maker Mode

Makers are creators. They add value by building things—whether that’s writing content, developing products, designing strategies, or solving complex problems. Their work requires deep concentration and long, uninterrupted time blocks. A five-minute interruption can cost them hours in lost focus and productivity.

Think Bill Gates’ famous “Think Weeks,” where he isolates himself to read, think, and strategize.

For Makers, success depends on flow, creativity, and undivided attention.

The Manager Mode

Managers are the facilitators and coordinators. Their value comes from decision-making, communication, and oversight. They excel at moving between tasks quickly, leading meetings, providing feedback, and unblocking teams. Their schedules are often packed with interactions that require quick thinking and rapid context switching.

Sheryl Sandberg, during her time at Meta, was known for a highly structured calendar filled with meetings designed to move the organization forward.

For Managers, success looks like clarity, decisiveness, and team coordination.

Why This Distinction Matters for Leaders

Switching between Maker and Manager modes isn’t seamless. Every transition comes with a cognitive cost. You can’t walk out of a high-stakes meeting and instantly drop into deep strategy work. It can take up to 25 minutes to regain full focus after a single interruption (source: Forbes).

Leaders who ignore this reality risk:

Burnout
Reduced productivity
Frustration—for themselves and their teams

But those who master these two modes can dramatically increase their impact. It’s not about choosing Maker or Manager. It’s about knowing when to operate in each mode—and protecting that time.

4 Practical Strategies to Master Both Modes

Audit Your Week
Are you spending your time intentionally as a Maker or Manager? Track your time for a week to understand where your energy is going.
Time Block with Purpose
Dedicate distinct parts of your day to each role. For example, schedule deep Maker work in the morning when your focus is strongest, and Manager tasks in the afternoon when collaboration is key.
Protect Your Maker Time Relentlessly
Turn off Slack and email notifications. Decline unnecessary meetings. Create a “Do Not Disturb” window and honor it. This signals to your team that you value deep work—and they should too.
Cluster Your Manager Tasks
Batch meetings, calls, and decision-making sessions. This keeps you in a coordination mindset, avoiding constant mode-switching that saps energy.

The Leadership Edge: Modeling Healthy Work Rhythms

This isn’t just about personal productivity. Leaders set the tone for their organizations. When you model intentional Maker and Manager time, you give your team permission to do the same. The result?

More focused teams
Better decision-making
Less burnout
More innovation

As Paul Graham wrote in his essay, Maker’s Schedule, Manager’s Schedule, “When you're operating on the maker's schedule, meetings are a disaster.” True then. Still true today.

The Bottom Line

The best leaders aren’t just good Makers or Managers. They’re intentional about how—and when—they show up in each role. In today’s complex business environment, adaptability is a superpower. But adaptability doesn’t mean multitasking.
It means designing your time to win.

For Further Reading:

Paul Graham: Maker's Schedule, Manager's Schedule

Forbes: The True Cost of Interruptions At Work (And How To Avoid Them)

HBR: How to Structure Your Day for Maximum Productivity

About the York County Regional Chamber

The post Maker vs. Manager: Mastering Two Distinct Leadership Modes to Maximize Your Impact appeared first on York County Regional Chamber of Commerce - SC.

From Conflict to Collaboration: Turning Workplace Disputes into Growth Opportunities

mollie.rose@yorkcountychamber.com — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 15:20:02 +0000

From Conflict to Collaboration: Turning Workplace Disputes into Growth Opportunities

February 11, 2025

Mollie Rose

Workplace conflicts are inevitable—but they don’t have to be toxic. Great leaders turn disagreements into collaboration opportunities. This article covers:

Communication frameworks that promote understanding
Mediation techniques to defuse tension
Strategies for creating win-win solutions

Handled well, conflict strengthens teams and sparks innovation. Let’s turn friction into progress.

527 words ~ 2.5 min.

Workplace conflict is a fact of life. Differing opinions, competing priorities, and personality clashes happen in every organization. But conflict itself isn’t the problem—how leaders handle it makes all the difference. Poorly managed disagreements create division and resentment, while skillful conflict resolution builds trust, strengthens teams, and sparks innovation.

When leaders adopt effective communication strategies, mediation techniques, and solution-driven approaches, they transform tension into teamwork. Here’s how to turn workplace conflict into a productive force.

1. Communication Frameworks That Promote Understanding

Many workplace conflicts stem from misunderstandings. People often assume intent, misinterpret tone, or let emotions take over. Strong communication frameworks prevent minor disagreements from escalating into full-blown disputes.

Active Listening as a Leadership Tool

Listening isn’t just about hearing words—it’s about understanding meaning. Leaders can foster better communication by:

Asking clarifying questions (“Can you explain what you mean by that?”).
Paraphrasing key points to ensure mutual understanding (“So what I’m hearing is…”).
Avoiding defensive reactions and staying open to feedback.

Nonviolent Communication (NVC): A Framework for Respectful Dialogue

Developed by psychologist Marshall Rosenberg, NVC is a four-step process that promotes empathy and constructive discussion:

Observe without judgment. (“I noticed that deadlines were missed this month.”)
Express feelings honestly. (“I feel frustrated because it affects our team’s progress.”)
Identify needs clearly. (“I need better alignment on project timelines.”)
Make a request for resolution. (“Can we set clearer deadlines going forward?”)

This framework removes blame and encourages problem-solving rather than confrontation.

2. Mediation Techniques to Defuse Tension

Some conflicts require mediation—especially when emotions run high. Effective leaders act as neutral facilitators, ensuring all voices are heard and guiding conversations toward resolution.

Key Mediation Strategies:

Establish Psychological Safety: Create an environment where people feel safe expressing concerns without fear of retaliation.
Reframe the Conflict as a Shared Problem: Instead of “me vs. you,” frame it as “us vs. the issue.”
Use the “Third Story” Perspective: This method, from Harvard’s Negotiation Project, encourages participants to step back and look at the situation as an outsider would. It shifts the conversation from blame to understanding.

When leaders mediate skillfully, conflicts become opportunities for strengthening relationships and improving workplace culture.

3. Win-Win Strategies for Long-Term Solutions

Effective conflict resolution isn’t about finding a temporary fix—it’s about creating lasting solutions that work for everyone involved.

Steps to Achieve a Win-Win Outcome:

Identify Shared Goals: Most conflicts arise from different approaches, not opposing objectives. Find the common ground.
Encourage Creative Problem-Solving: Avoid binary thinking (e.g., "my way or your way") and explore alternative solutions.
Follow Up and Hold People Accountable: Agreements should be documented and revisited to ensure lasting change.

When conflict is resolved thoughtfully, teams emerge stronger, more engaged, and better aligned.

Final Thoughts

Conflict in the workplace is unavoidable—but leaders who approach it with empathy, structure, and problem-solving skills can turn it into a powerful force for collaboration. The best teams aren’t those that never disagree; they’re the ones that know how to navigate differences productively.

Are you interested in taking your leadership to the next level? York County Regional Chamber is dedicated to fostering leadership at all levels in York County, supporting individuals from project leaders to those interested in public service and non-profit boards. Visit our Leadership Development page to learn about how we can support you!

------

About the York County Regional Chamber

The post From Conflict to Collaboration: Turning Workplace Disputes into Growth Opportunities appeared first on York County Regional Chamber of Commerce - SC.

Talent & Workforce Development Archives - York County Regional Chamber of Commerce - SC

The Curiosity Code: Why Asking Better Questions Beats Having All the Answers

The Curiosity Code: Why Asking Better Questions Beats Having All the Answers

Curiosity as a Leadership Practice

How to Build Curiosity Into the System

The Bottom Line

Categories

Archives

How Teaching Your Team to Sell Drives Every Metric Up

How Teaching Your Team to Sell Drives Every Metric Up

Categories

Archives

Blueprint 2035: Shaping South Carolina’s Economic Future

Blueprint 2035: Shaping South Carolina’s Economic Future

Blueprint 2035: Shaping South Carolina’s Economic Future

Gathering Local Input: York County’s Role

What’s driving the skills shortage?

What’s one big policy change that could supercharge SC’s economy?

What’s the biggest risk to maintaining economic momentum in SC?

A Shared Path Forward

Looking Ahead

Categories

Archives

Mark Pursley Graduates from Institute for Organization Management

Mark Pursley Graduates from Institute for Organization Management

Categories

Archives

Ones to Watch Profile: Allison Terry

Ones to Watch Profile: Allison Terry

Categories

Archives

Winthrop Students Tackle Real-World Marketing Challenge in EPIC Competition

Winthrop Students Tackle Real-World Marketing Challenge in EPIC Competition

Categories

Archives

How Small Businesses Can Lead Innovation

How Small Businesses Can Lead Innovation

Sustainability: More Than a Trend, a Competitive Edge

E-Commerce’s Continued Evolution

AI for Any Business

Community Engagement: The Power of Local Connections

The Future Belongs to Those Who Innovate

Categories

Archives

LIFT: A Comprehensive Approach to Leadership and Talent Development

LIFT: A Comprehensive Approach to Leadership and Talent Development

Categories

Archives

Maker vs. Manager: Mastering Two Distinct Leadership Modes to Maximize Your Impact

Maker vs. Manager: Mastering Two Distinct Leadership Modes to Maximize Your Impact

Maker vs. Manager: Two Modes, Two Rhythms

The Maker Mode

The Manager Mode

Why This Distinction Matters for Leaders

4 Practical Strategies to Master Both Modes

The Leadership Edge: Modeling Healthy Work Rhythms

The Bottom Line

Categories

Archives

From Conflict to Collaboration: Turning Workplace Disputes into Growth Opportunities

From Conflict to Collaboration: Turning Workplace Disputes into Growth Opportunities

1. Communication Frameworks That Promote Understanding

Active Listening as a Leadership Tool

Nonviolent Communication (NVC): A Framework for Respectful Dialogue

2. Mediation Techniques to Defuse Tension

Key Mediation Strategies:

3. Win-Win Strategies for Long-Term Solutions

Steps to Achieve a Win-Win Outcome:

Final Thoughts

Categories

Archives