Why Public Speaking Is One of the Most Powerful Growth Tools for Small Business Owners
Most small business owners pour energy into product development, digital marketing, and customer service — but one of the most effective growth levers gets overlooked: the ability to stand up and speak with confidence. Whether you're presenting to a room of ten or a conference of five hundred, public speaking can open doors that no email campaign or social post ever will. The hesitation is understandable. As of 2025, around 75% of people worldwide fear public speaking, yet approximately 70% of jobs
Local students make a buzz at Civics Bee
Monticello middle schoolers claim four of top five spots at regional competitionBy Lauren Flaum, Monticello Times Middle school students compete in the regional National Civics Bee on Saturday, March 21, at Monticello Middle School, answering questions on government, history, and civic engagement. First-place winner, Mariah J. of Salk Middle School in Elk River, poses with her award alongside Monticello Mayor Lloyd Hilgart following the National Civics Bee regional competition on March 21 in Monticello.
Recruitment Marketing Strategies That Attract and Retain Skilled Talent
Recruitment marketing helps businesses consistently attract qualified candidates by applying marketing principles to hiring. Instead of waiting for applicants to appear, companies proactively build awareness, interest, and trust with potential hires long before a position opens. When done well, it creates a steady pipeline of engaged professionals who already understand your brand, culture, and opportunities.Key Takeaways Recruitment marketing builds long-term relationships with candidates rather than
A Practical Guide to Managing Tax Season for Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce Members
Small business owners in the Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce wear many hats. One of the most important — and often most stressful — is managing the tax filing process. With the right systems in place, tax season becomes less about scrambling and more about steady, confident preparation. In brief: Strong recordkeeping reduces last-minute stress and errors. Separating business and personal finances simplifies reporting. A simple calendar of deadlines prevents costly penalties. Organized digital
