Servant Leadership is a theory that has stood the test of time. In the 1970’s, Robert Greenleaf coined the term Servant Leadership based on his qualitative research on what he described as effective vs ineffective leaders. Greenleaf was an AT&T executive who spent much of his research time exploring the topic of leadership. Based on the writings of Greenleaf, other researchers have both qualitatively and quantitatively explored the theory and…
What do you think your body language communicates to others? When used properly, body language can be your key to greater success. Your body language can help you build positive business relationships, influence others, motivate others and help you communicate more effectively with others. An effective leader understands the power of using body language as another effective communication tool. Understanding how to communicate with more than words is critical to…
It was well established in the literature that leaders who had the ability to inspire, motivate and intellectually stimulate followers saw positive organizational outcomes such as increased job satisfaction, high employee morale, lower turnover rates and more employee motivation. However, there is emerging research that suggests transformational leadership is not always the best way to lead. In fact, there are a handful of studies that found that the use of…
The old days of competing amongst ourselves is a thing of the past. Working together for the good of the Valley is as bright as a Northeast fall leaf. If you don’t believe me, drive the Valley and see the incredible growth of rooftops and businesses, reaching far and wide. The comradery between county, city and town leadership combined with the very friendly business environment proves bitter leaves of yesteryear…
San Antonio Startup Week will offer entrepreneurs a free week of innovation on from Oct. 16-21 in downtown San Antonio. The event features 75 events, including keynote addresses, workshops and panel discussions. A highlight is five premier startup pitch competitions which will invest nearly $300,000 in startups during the week. The majority of SA Startup Week events will be held at Geekdom at 110 E. Houston Street. “San Antonio Startup…
The Pharr Economic Development Corporation has partnered with LiftFund to launch of its new small business program providing local small businesses in Pharr with assistance and debt relief. LiftFund’s mission is to provide credit and services to small businesses and entrepreneurs who do not have access to loans from commercial sources and to provide leadership and innovation to the micro-lending industry. Since its founding, the organization has provided over $287…
VBR is featuring a series of Q&A articles from SCORE, a nonprofit organization that fosters vibrant small business communities through mentoring and educational workshops. It features a large network of volunteer business mentors who help small businesses plan, launch, manage and grow their projects and ideas. In this Q&A, insights are offered on buying a business. Q: What do I need to know when buying a business? A: The most…
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is recognizing the very best in American small business. Beginning this year, its newly reimagined America’s Top Small Business Awards (formerly Dream Big Awards) will honor the achievements of small businesses and highlight their contributions to America’s economic growth. The winner of America’s Top Small Business 2023 will receive national recognition and a $25,000 cash prize. Additional non-cash prizes, including prizes for finalists, are online. To…
VBR is kicking off a series with SCORE, a nonprofit organization fostering vibrant small business communities through mentoring and educational workshops. The nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors helps small businesses plan, launch, manage and grow. In this SCORE Q&A, we hear from Pete Carvell, a SCORE mentor, leader and past district director. Q: What are some options in financing a small business? A: There are several ways to…
The Pharr Economic Development Corporation has launched its new Pharr EDC II Small Business Grant. The program offers small and emerging for-profit businesses grant assistance to establish or expand into the City of Pharr to support long-term success. The Pharr EDC will host workshops in English and Spanish on March 29 at Pharr One (1121 E. Nolana Loop) to inform local businesses about the grant opportunities. The English workshop will…