LKS November Digest: Voting, Policy, and Business Impact

Welcome to the November Issue of the LKS (listen, keep, share) Digest

Happy Election Day! I hope everyone has had the chance to cast their votes today and inspire their teams to do the same. Our democracy is a remarkable gift, and engaging in it is vital for us all.

As a business owner in Gilbert, Arizona, I was tapped to serve on the Mayor’s Advisory Council under then-Mayor Jenn Daniels. This experience provided invaluable insights into workforce needs, business attraction, and even the necessity of high-quality dining options for our guests. In return, we gained critical updates from city officials, giving us a competitive edge.

This non-partisan council exemplified how government and business can collaborate effectively. As business leaders, our focus should be on policy and connection rather than the divisive partisan issues that often dominate discussions. Our challenge is to rise above the noise and concentrate on what truly matters: growth, financing, and employment.

Consider navigating the potential impact of healthcare policy on one Vistage member’s business model, or how another’s landscape company successfully accessed a program to bring workers from Mexico. The rapid advancement of AI also demands that we remain informed as regulations struggle to keep pace. Read: Should we ‘move fast and break things’ with AI? - My Vistage Research Center

We need a commitment to thoughtful policy and informed leadership to differentiate our companies from those that disengage from government or become polarized.

With 17 years as an owner and CEO of a national company, I learned firsthand the importance of being aware, educated, and engaged with government over politics. It taught me just how essential these connections can be.

Understanding how government policies at local, state, national, and global levels impact your business is crucial for growth, hiring, and financing. Here are some strategies to ensure you have every advantage:

1. Be Aware

Stay informed about policy changes at all levels. Engaging with industry associations and consulting non-partisan experts can provide valuable insights. For example, the Bipartisan Policy Center offers research and analysis on various policy issues, helping businesses understand the implications of policy shifts bipartisanpolicy.org

WATCH: Member Exclusive - The US Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Vistage Member Webinar “A look ahead to the next Congress” on Friday, November 15. Register here: Member Exclusive

2. Be Educated

Gain a clear understanding of government authority at various levels. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce (a Vistage partner) emphasizes that public policy is foundational for business growth, highlighting how policies can support or hinder success.

Access the CO Resource Center here: Homepage | CO- by US Chamber of Commerce

Subscribe to the CO Weekly Newsletter: CO- by US Chamber of Commerce

American Enterprise Institute (AEI): Provides a range of research and analysis on economic policy that aims to inform public debate. aei.org

Know the trends before the crowds with the Vistage Q3 CEO Confidence Index. Get the full study here: Q3 Vistage CEO Index

3. Be Connected

Build relationships with policymakers and participate in public policy discussions. Start by reaching out to your local, state, and national representatives. Humanize those who serve us and ask for opportunities to listen and be heard.

The Pew Research Center provides non-partisan data and trends that can inform your engagement strategies. Pew Research Center | Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World

Watch: Arizona Vistage member Jen Lee joined other Vistage CEOs in Washington, D.C. for meetings with the U.S. Chamber. Watch the video here.

Get the full report: Vistage on the Hill 2024: Face-to-face, toe-to-toe on policy - My Vistage Research Center

By implementing these strategies, you can navigate the complex policy landscape effectively, positioning your business for success!?

Lks

Note: I’ve listed some non-partisan sources here, but you may have your favorites. You can check source reliability at sites like Media Bias/Fact Check to assess news and bias.

If you run a business from $5M-$250M let’s talk. Book a 15-min intro call here: lynnekingsmith.com

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