Bis-Man INC! January 2024 by Spotlight Media

Driving Success P.34

Managing Online Reputation P.42

January 2024 // Bismaninc.com

Mighty Missouri Coffee Co.

New Year, New Review P.60

A Bismarck-Mandan Business Magazine

CONTENT

// JANUARY 2024

Ask The Expert: Key Considerations When Selecting the Right Cyber Insurance Coverage

Mighty Missouri Coffee Co.

Driving Success

Managing Online Reputation

An Update from Pavewise

Nonprofit Of The Month: Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area

New Year, New Review

Women You Should Know: Qiuhong Toman

LIKE OUR CONTENT? Check out our website at BisManINC.com BISMANINC.COM

JANUARY 2024 Volume 3 Issue 1

Bis-Man INC! is published monthly and is available at area businesses and online at Bismaninc.com.

Publisher Mike Dragosavich EDITORIAL Editorial Team Lead Brady Drake Brady@SpotlightMediaFargo.com Editors Geneva Nodland, Grant Ayers Art Director Kim Cowles Editorial Graphic Designer Ty Betts Creative Strategist Josiah Kopp Contributors Ladyboss Lifestyle, Mike Schmitz (City of Bismarck), Pavewise, VBOC of the Dakotas INTERACTIVE Business Development Manager Business Development Associate Videographer Director of Creative Strategies Graphic Designer Web Developer

Nick Schommer Kellen Feeney Tommy Uhlir Megan Suedbeck Ben Buchanan Austin Smith

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Editor's Note:

GROUNDS FOR GROWTH IN BISMARCK-MANDAN However, our exploration of the local business scene this month doesn't end there. I also had the pleasure of speaking with Jesse Peterson of Eide Automotive Group. Their innovative approaches to car sales and customer service are setting new standards in the industry and contributing significantly to our local economy. We also spotlighted the nonprofit Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area. This organization's dedication to improving the lives of our residents through home rehabilitation and repair projects is a heartwarming reminder of the power of community and collective effort. Each of these stories embodies a unique aspect of our business community—from corporate innovation to social responsibility. They reflect the diverse enterprises that make Bismarck-Mandan not just a place to do business, but a place where business does good. As your editor, I invite you to dive deep into these inspiring narratives. Let them fuel your passion, broaden your perspectives, and perhaps even spark new ideas. Whether you're a seasoned business owner, a budding entrepreneur, or simply someone who appreciates the diverse local economy, there's something in this issue for you.

ere at Bis-Man INC!, we've always aimed to find stories of innovation, dedication, and community impact that shape our local economy. This month, we turn the spotlight on Brian Jackson, the entrepreneurial spirit behind Mighty Missouri Coffee Co. Brian's journey is more than just about brewing the perfect cup of coffee. It's about passion, resilience, and community engagement. Now, having expanded to a second location in Bismarck's Kirkwood Mall, Jackson's story is filled to the brim with ambition.

Together, let's celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship and community that makes Bismarck-Mandan a place of endless possibilities. After all, just like a well-brewed cup of coffee, the essence of our business community is in its rich blend and the warmth it brings to our lives. Let's continue to brew success, one story at a time.

Sincerely,

Bis-Man INC! Editor

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ASK THE EXPERT

Key Considerations When Selecting the Right Cyber Insurance Coverage By NorthStar Technology Group

s your organization prepared to face today’s growing cybersecurity threats? Using the latest technologies is extremely important, but it’s equally essential to ensure that your business has the best cyber liability insurance. Think of it as an invisible shield protecting your organization from devastating losses. However, to utilize its full potential and ensure robust protection, it is critical to have a nuanced understanding of it. Read on to learn more about key things to consider when shopping for cyber liability insurance. But first, it’s good to understand the difference between first-party coverage and third-party coverage:

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First-Party Coverage vs. Third-Party Coverage Every business today needs cyber liability insurance. To help businesses quickly respond and recover from data breaches, insurance providers have developed two types of cyber liability insurance: first-party coverage and third-party coverage. Here’s how they differ:

Focus of Coverage First-party coverage » Shields the insured business. » Protects against direct losses and expenses resulting from a data breach. Third-party coverage » Focuses on liabilities from third parties. » Covers claims made by third parties who suffered losses because of the insured business' cyber incident.

Costs Covered First-party coverage » Covers only the insured’s direct costs. » Pays for revenue loss, forensic investigations, data restoration, public relations, and customer notification services. Third-party coverage » Pays for business' legal expenses. » Covers cyber-related liabilities, such as data breaches, privacy violations, and defamation.

Third-party coverage » Benefits third parties, such as a business’s customers, clients, and business partners. » Provides direct protection to those affected by a data breach suffered by the insured business.

Key Things to Consider While Shopping for a Policy

vulnerable. That’s why it’s crucial to know what is not covered by your insurance. Incident Response Make sure that the policy has provisions for developing and implementing a cyber incident response plan tailored to suit your business. Without a well-defined response plan, you won’t be able to effectively respond to a cyber incident. Price Before finalizing a policy, compare and cross-check various policies, especially their costs and unique offerings. Although opting for the most affordable option can be tempting, it is crucial to ensure that the coverage you choose is best suited for your business needs.

Reputation Management

Here are some key points to consider when shopping for a cyber liability insurance policy:

First-party coverage

Coverage Comprehensive coverage is key to reducing the impact of a cyber incident. Your business can become the victim of a data breach or a large-scale cyberattack at any time. That’s why it’s crucial to ensure that the policy addresses cyber risks specific to your business.

Reputation It is also important to do your due diligence and research the insurance company’s reputation. Look for an insurer with a good reputation and positive customer feedback. Choose a company that settles claims promptly, as that is a reliable indicator of the level of support you can expect when you need it.

Limits Evaluate the policy to understand the coverage limits. The policy that you finalize should be able to handle the potential costs associated with a cyberattack, including legal fees, data recovery, and business interruption expenses.

Build a Resilient Future Finding the right cyber liability insurance coverage for your organization can be daunting. However, it can be even more challenging to get a payout when you need it the most. That’s where a dedicated IT service provider like NorthStar Technology Group comes in.

» Pays for expenses related to hiring public relations firms. » Aims to restore the brand image of a business after a cyber incident. Third-party coverage » Primarily focused on handling the legal aspects. » More concerned with defending against claims and settling thirdparty disputes.

Beneficiaries of Coverage First-party coverage » Directly benefits the insurer. » Provides direct protection to the insured party against direct losses.

Exclusions Study the policy outlines to understand what is excluded. Any limitations in your policy can make your business

We can help you improve your chances of securing coverage. Reach out today, and let's build a resilient future together. northstartechnologygroup.com /NorthStarTG

@northstartechno

866-337-9096 @NorthStarTechno

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Mighty Missouri Coffee Co. Serving a Decade of Quality Conversation, Community, and Caffeine By Grant Ayers |

Josiah Kopp

the CEO, president, and founder of Mighty Missouri Coffee Company in Bismarck, Brian Jackson has always been a creative at heart. With a knack for marketing and communications throughout his life, Jackson had an interest in pursuing a new journey altogether in the fall of 2012. While the beginning of Jackson's Mighty Missouri journey was a bit rocky, the entrepreneur has found his footing and grown a dedicated team with a thriving culture. Since those early days, Mighty Missouri Coffee Co. has been "a journey of faith" for Jackson, with the brand being at the heart of the mission. 10 years removed from the Mighty Missouri's inception, they've recently expanded to a second location within the Kirkwood Mall. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Jackson to discuss the early days of Mighty Missouri, his "big break" in Bismarck's business landscape, and much more.

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Brian Jackson

CEO & Founder of Mighty Missouri Coffee Co.

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Mighty Missouri Coffee Co. is conveniently located in two places: inside the Missouri Valley Family YMCA and at the Kirkwood Mall, both situated in Bismarck.

While in his previous marketing role, Jackson had initial ideas for a new business venture but wasn't exactly sure of the direction that he would take. "I was building a brand called 'Mighty Missouri *blank* Company,' to create something and exercise those creative muscles. I didn't know what it would be just yet, but I knew that was the name that I was bringing with me," Jackson said. As he was looking at potential business ventures, he started to get into the world of coffee. "The more I learned about coffee, the more I was interested in it. I took small steps into that world, thinking it may just be an 'after 5 p.m.' job selling some coffee to my friends and just trying something fun. I was only 24 years

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old at the time, so I had that young confidence to take a small initial step, which turned into bigger and bigger steps," Jackson said.

could get a few coffee shops under my belt," Jackson said.

Pretty soon, Jackson realized that he had to take a leap of faith and fully pursue Mighty Missouri before the chance passed him by. Taking his first crack at the entrepreneurial adventure, Jackson developed a business plan that he looks back on with humor.

Jackson didn't want to necessarily let another coffee shop use his coffee under their name; he wanted people to have "Mighty Missouri" as their favorite coffee. Now knowing what he wanted to pursue with Mighty Missouri, his next step would be making the product available to the Bismarck-Mandan community.

"When I was first starting Mighty Missouri, I had this business plan that would be a laughable document today, if I'm being honest. But there weren't many coffee roasters when I was taking my first crack at being a coffee roaster, so I thought that it would be great if I

"Typically, a roaster will sell their product to a grocery store like Whole Foods and they'll be available in stores for purchase. I asked around and some places were interested when I reached out to them, but it took me a while to get the money down and fully-printed

packaging prepared for the grocery store sales. I wouldn't recommend anyone start their business this way, by reaching out before completely prepared, but I was flush with naïveté," Jackson said. After months of startup headaches, sweat, and tears had gone by, Jackson was finally ready and called back to follow up with them. Unfortunately, they told him that they were looking at another place and that they would ultimately pass on Mighty Missouri Coffee. "It was heartbreaking to lose that chance. Coffee is such a competitive, tight space. I asked if I could still drop off a bag on their desk, but they decided to pass on a meeting altogether. I

knew that it wouldn't be the end of my business on day one, but that was a big piece of what I wanted to do and where my heart was at," Jackson said. During the same week as his rejection, Jackson was volunteering at Bismarck's Shiloh Christian School, where Grammy award-nominated artist Matthew West was performing. Little did Jackson know, that one volunteering opportunity would change the course of his entrepreneurial career. "I went there wearing my brand new Mighty Missouri Coffee t-shirt, which was just the sample version to see if I wanted to order more. Eventually, Matthew West came in and thanked everyone for helping, and he happened

to ask me about my shirt. He asked if it was a local thing, and I told him that it was my dream project that I just started. He asked me for a shirt, so I guessed his size, went and picked one up, and quickly gave it to the tour manager when I got back," Jackson said. That night in front of a sold-out crowd, Matthew West wore that shirt on stage underneath his jacket. When West took his jacket off, he briefly stopped the performance for a few minutes to talk about how his friend was opening up Mighty Missouri Coffee in Bismarck. "It was just the sweetest thing that he could do to talk it up and call me a friend, and it gave Mighty Missouri a huge leg up moving forward.

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Had Matthew not given me that spotlight, it would have been an entirely different path. I already had a website and soon after, people were reaching out and emailing asking where they could get this coffee and when the business would be opening," Jackson said. He responded to every single inquiry, telling them to reach out to the local grocery stores and ask them. Within a week or two, Jackson received a call from a grocery store that was interested in getting this coffee on the shelves. He worked with them to get a full row of Mighty Missouri in the coffee aisle. While it may not have made him a living right away, that step was most certainly a billboard for the brand. From there, Jackson opened Mighty Missouri's first coffee bar inside 701 Cycle and Sports in 2016. The coffee bar represented an opportunity for him to learn about storefronts and what being in one was like. "I wanted to show off what we were doing with the business because there's nothing else like it. That was the first time that we were able to partner with people, and for the first time, I had a team. It was a super small team, but that made it something more than just my own thing, which was a huge shift in how things were going for Mighty Missouri as a company," Jackson said. While Jackson loved the coffee bar at 701 Cycle and Sports for its vibrant community, he admitted that it didn't feel like the "forever space" for Mighty Missouri. "The coffee bar was a really cool and fun time, but Mighty Missouri wasn't a moneymaker yet. More than anything, to start a coffee shop is to learn how

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to balance and not lose your money. It's a hard space, but we learned and opened a space inside the Bismarck YMCA in 2017, which changed a lot for us," Jackson said. The Bismarck YMCA had previously announced that they had been considering plans to incorporate a coffee shop into their location and were accepting applications for business plans. "We put everything we had into that plan to secure the space. Thankfully, they selected us to open in their front lobby, and we were able to double our team from there. They could have talked to a Caribou or Starbucks, but they wanted it to be local, which went a long way in our eyes," Jackson said. For six years now, Mighty Missouri Coffee Co. has found immense success in its storefront at the Bismarck YMCA. So much so, that Jackson and the team opened a second location in September of 2023 within the Kirkwood Mall. While opening a new location is admittedly a large hurdle to overcome for Jackson and the team, it's a great challenge to be facing. "We're at a completely new transition where it was a super small business, and I was the culture, to now having nearly 30 people in total on our staff. Now, the company is forming the culture. I'm the only common denominator from when we began our initial storefront, so we have people who don't yet understand the full backstory of the business, yet they're excited to learn and work with us. We've had some fantastic people with natural leadership skills join our team, which has made all the difference," Jackson said.

Did You Know? In 2016, Mighty Missouri Coffee Co. was selected by Google as a highlighted small business! Small businesses that were successfully growing and using Google were selected from each state. "They had a professional photographer come in, do a big write-up, and send it out to a bunch of places because Mighty Missouri uses Google, which was an honor. Last year, which was celebrating 10 years of being a company, we were invited to visit Washington, D.C. by Google with roughly 150 other small business owners. I thought that I was either there by a huge blessing or a huge mistake. I saw the owners of BLK & Bold Specialty Beverages and Portrait Coffee and many other people that I admire, so that was a very memorable milestone for us." - Brian Jackson

Brian Jackson and Mighty Missouri Coffee Co. were previously featured as the "Face of Coffee" in the 2022 edition of our annual publication, FACES of BismarckMandan!

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Courtesy of The Good Kids

"I was alone in this business for years when I first began, so my whole prayer was just to have a team. I work very well within a team, and not as well alone. Now that I have the team that I've always wanted, and am proud to have, one of the challenges is acknowledging that I'm allowed to enjoy it. Not in terms of taking a break or letting up, and definitely not getting complacent, but just acknowledging that this is the dream that I was hoping for and allowing myself to celebrate how far Mighty Missouri has come. I'm always looking at the challenges, cash flow, and how we can grow, which can be stressful, but it's always good to rise to those occasions and grow in a positive direction, and especially take note of it." - Brian Jackson

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Keep an eye out for Mighty Missouri Coffee Co. products for your home, available online and in stores near you!

Q&A Q: What's your personal favorite beverage at Mighty Missouri? A: That's a great question! Honestly, I love black coffee. However, every drink we have has an absolute seal of approval from me. Other than black coffee, my absolute favorites are our espresso and americano. Q: What are some of Mighty Missouri's most popular beverages during the winter season? A: Our miel, which is a honey cinnamon latte. Our Mighty Miel has a little bit extra in there and that's our most popular specialty drink. Our most popular drink is our vanilla latte, which is just a great latte that comes from great espresso. Our latte is one of those lattes that you can have plain and think, 'oh, this is good,' then, add some flavoring to that and it's even better.

Courtesy of The Good Kids

With a full team behind him, Jackson aims to further integrate Mighty Missouri Coffee Company within the Bismarck-Mandan community through communityengaging events, such as the Bis-Man Triathlon. While the local triathlon has been active since 2010, Jackson and the Mighty Missouri team took on not just sponsoring, but hosting the event a few years ago. Located at McDowell Dam Recreation Area, the triathlon is no small race by any means. "It's a state championship race. We have professional timing come in and athletes fly in for this race, which is really cool

to see and host hundreds of participants each year. That's our number one community engagement event; we've already been planning for next year, which has been a huge undertaking. When runners participate in the Bis-Man Triathlon, Mighty Missouri staff is out there cheering them on with flags; we shut down the shops for the day to be out on the road for this race. It takes a community to bring it together, between volunteers and business sponsors, and trying to outdo ourselves from the previous year," Jackson said.

Did You Know? The Bis-Man Triathlon is an official USA Triathlon (USAT)-sanctioned race.

What is a triathlon? A triathlon is a multi-sport event that combines three different physical activities in one race. In the Bis-Man Triathalon, activities include swimming, cycling, and running at the McDowell Dam Recreation Area.

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Courtesy of The Good Kids

JANUARY 2024

Community engagement aside, Jackson also remains focused on Mighty Missouri's standards for customer service and leaving a smile on each customer's face. According to Jackson, one of the company's large beliefs is that employees think of every customer as if they were a celebrity. "We aim to give them the best experience possible from the moment they walk in the door. There's something special about giving a customer that feeling; we like to think that we're making a difference for the better in our community. Being located at the Missouri Valley Family YMCA, where they have a wide variety of programs, you don't necessarily know what people are going through in a day. No matter how their day is going, we want to give them an experience to make it great. Having a location in the Kirkwood Mall also offers a different environment and group of people than the YMCA, so it's been so great to be a part of those unique communities by putting ourselves out there," Jackson said.

"We want people to know that we're our own independent business. Sometimes, people come in and automatically think we're a Starbucks or that we carry Starbucks products, but I like to think it's because we look good and we're doing everything right. We're operating professionally, the branding is on par, and every little detail looks great because we're from Bismarck. We care about this town and community and hold ourselves to a high standard because of it." - Brian Jackson

Q&A Q: What trends have you noticed in the coffee industry in the last year or so? Do you notice any trends coming through that you want to stay on top of? A: I don't know if it's a trend per se, or if it's just that everyone uses them, but we're hoping to release K cups within the next year. There are a lot of trends in the specialty coffee world, and we don't want to latch on to every passing thing. We want to know and remember who we are and be that. I have personally made the mistake of seeing what's going on out there that makes a lot of money or that other coffee shops are doing, tried that, and it just doesn't work because it's not us. At the end of the day, we just want to authentically be 'Mighty Missouri.'

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Looking ahead in 2024, Mighty Missouri's goal is to expand aggressively and introduce themselves to even more new customers this year. The team recently hired their firstever full-time salesperson on staff at their office roastery. "We've never been on the offense and gone out to grow before; everything's been organic. We want to grow this year and

make moves to build our structure while continuing to tighten things up with a closeknit culture across our team. Last fall, our Kirkwood Mall location had our first-ever Black Friday, which was a unique experience. There are a lot of people in Bismarck who we haven't gotten to share a coffee with just yet, so one of our big goals is just to be a little bit louder within our community," Jackson said.

701-251-0785 mightymissouri.com /MightyMissouriCoffee

Missouri Valley Family YMCA 1608 N Washington St, Bismarck, ND 58501

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Kirkwood Mall Location 706 Kirkwood Mall, Bismarck, ND 58504

Driving

Success

Unveiling the Roadmap to Eide Automotive Group's Growth By Grant Ayers |

Courtesy of Eide Auto Group

ide Automotive Group, a trusted car dealership company in the Bismarck-Mandan area, stands as a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and community focus in the automotive industry. Over the past 19 years, Eide Automotive Group has experienced remarkable growth and achieved numerous milestones, evolving into a prominent player in the local market. In this article, we explore the unique business model of Eide Automotive Group and its dealerships. I sat down with Dealer Principal Jesse Peterson, where we discussed Eide Automotive Group’s impressive growth and expansion, Eide’s value in a positive work environment and employee retention, and much more.

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Jesse Peterson, Dealer Principal Eide Automotive Group

Geneva Nodland BISMANINC.COM

The Journey of Eide Automotive Group This story of Eide Automotive Group begins in January 2005 when Peterson arrived in Bismarck with no intention of staying long-term. However, within a few months, Peterson’s passion for the business and the Bismarck-Mandan community became evident, paving the way for a long and prosperous career in the region. “I came to Bismarck to work for my grandfather at the dealership. In my mind, I was going to go on to do bigger and better things in bigger and better places. But after the first three or four months, I decided that I really liked it and wanted to make a career in BismarckMandan,” Peterson said. Over the past 19 years, Eide Automotive Group has experienced significant growth and achieved key milestones. Starting with Eide Ford in Bismarck, their flagship store, the group has witnessed a substantial increase in sales, from selling approximately 1,700 vehicles per year in the early days to nearly 2,800 vehicles per year today. Recently, the dealership achieved a remarkable feat, recording a record-breaking month with 302 vehicles sold, an exceptional accomplishment within the industry. Another milestone in Eide Automotive Group’s growth occurred during the oil boom that had an immense impact on many businesses across the region. “Looking back 10 years ago, that oil

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boom gave the business a shot of adrenaline, as a lot of people were moving out to the Bismarck-Mandan area, and North Dakota in general. It really grew our business and forced us to make ourselves bigger,” Peterson said. Expanding its reach and strengthening its presence, Eide Automotive Group acquired Ryan Dodge in 2016. This acquisition marked a turning point, enabling the group to tap into new opportunities and expand their operations. With the dedication and expertise of key individuals, namely Jesse Schuchard and Don Pask, who played instrumental roles in establishing and growing the Chrysler dealership, Eide Automotive Group witnessed explosive growth, increasing annual sales from around 1,100 to 2,500 vehicles. “When we added the Chrysler dealership, I went to get that off the ground with a handful of key employees who helped implement our processes and grow that dealership. That dealership has had really explosive growth that has been fun to watch over the last seven years,” Peterson said. Another significant milestone came with the acquisition of Bill Barth Ford in Mandan. Similar to the success story of Ryan Dodge, the dealership experienced substantial growth, with average monthly sales skyrocketing from 80 to well over 160 vehicles. By leveraging the talents of exceptional employees from their existing stores, Eide Automotive Group was able to foster growth and continue its upward trajectory.

“I took some people from various positions in the other two stores that were ready for the next step, but we didn’t have anything available for them at the moment. That led us to plant them in here and they’ve done a fantastic job of helping us grow,” Peterson said.

Attracting and Retaining Top Talent A key factor behind Eide Automotive Group's sustained success lies in its ability to attract and retain top talent. The group's approach to talent management centers around creating opportunities for growth and development. Regular shareholder meetings provide a platform for identifying individuals with the potential to advance within the organization. Even if immediate higher positions are unavailable, Eide Automotive Group ensures that deserving employees are put on a path to future success. By adopting this strategy, the group has promoted over 100 individuals in the last seven years, cultivating a culture of growth and fostering loyalty among its workforce. “We hold shareholder meetings twice a year, where I meet with my partners, tell them what's going on with their dealerships, and identify people that can advance our organization. Then, we communicate that with them and get them on track to do it. We may tell those people that while we may not

We do everything we can to make it as easy as possible for the customer, including training and coaching sessions, as well as implementing new software solutions for efficiency. - Jesse Peterson have any higher positions available at that moment, we’re going to work hard to get them to that next step. It may not be at the dealership you’re currently working at, but it will pay off,” Peterson said. The group's expansion and acquisition of new dealerships have also played a crucial role in talent retention. With multiple dealerships under its umbrella, Eide Automotive Group can offer diverse roles and opportunities for employees to explore. This flexibility and variety not only keep employees engaged but also helps prevent the monotony often associated with a singular work environment. “When we purchased the Chrysler store, we had five or six employees that were ready for the next step in their careers, but we didn't have anything available for them as all of the management positions were filled above them. Since then, we’ve been acquiring more dealerships, which allows us to offer more positions with growth and promote those that deserve it. Many of our employees enjoy switching around stores and positions so that it’s not the same mundane thing over and over. It's something new,” Peterson said.

Delivering an Exceptional Customer Experience Eide Automotive Group sets itself apart from competitors by prioritizing the customer experience. Recognizing that customer satisfaction and long-term relationships are the foundation of their success, the group invests significant time, resources, and funds in enhancing the overall buying experience. Eide Automotive Group continually seeks ways to simplify the car-buying process, utilizing employee training and coaching sessions and implementing new software solutions to improve efficiency. “We do everything we can to make it as easy as possible for the customer, including training and coaching sessions, as well as implementing new software solutions for efficiency. We believe that Bismarck-Mandan is a small enough area with a big enough business community that you need to have repeat customers and great wordof-mouth to succeed, especially in this industry,” Peterson said.

In a close-knit community like BismarckMandan, building a loyal customer base and fostering positive word-ofmouth referrals are paramount. Eide Automotive Group's commitment to customer satisfaction has been instrumental in achieving this. By going the extra mile to ensure every customer leaves satisfied, the group has gained the loyalty and trust of the community.

Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Change Eide Automotive Group has faced various challenges throughout its journey. Intense competition from rival dealerships, such as the rise of disruptive online platforms like Carvana, has necessitated constant adaptation. However, rather than viewing competition as a threat, Eide Automotive Group leverages it as an opportunity for growth and improvement. Healthy competition has spurred the group to evolve and innovate continually, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the industry.

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“There are always challenges as competitors get better. There have been dealerships bought and sold in the last 10 years that have made our competition better. In most industries, you have to be aware of the competition surrounding you, which isn’t always a bad thing. Carvana’s selling point is a very easy shopping experience. We’re well aware that people appreciate that, so we’re always looking for techniques to further support our customer base. We’ve found that some customers prefer to not even come into the store, which is no problem for us. We’ll evolve and help you in any way that we can,” Peterson said. The 2008 recession presented one of the most significant hurdles for Eide Automotive Group and the automotive industry as a whole. With Chrysler and General Motors filing for bankruptcy, the business landscape was tumultuous. Nevertheless, Eide Automotive Group persevered, with their partnership with Ford proving to be the “smart choice” in Peterson’s eyes. Ford's decision not to seek a government bailout resonated with customers, resulting in increased sales and market share for Eide Automotive Group. “I don't know if Mulally decided then and there, but he didn’t ask and said that he was there to support the others. It's always been my opinion that he pivoted on the spot after he saw them. He said that they didn’t need to take the money,

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which resonated with people. Soon after, people were trading in vehicles of all kinds for a Ford because they didn’t take the bailout. It was just a stroke of luck on our part that we happened to be a Ford dealer. At the same time, Ford was readying some new models with great designs that were catching on, which also helped business,” Peterson said. Simultaneously, the group prioritized its focus on people, recognizing the importance of fostering a talented and dedicated workforce. By placing emphasis on employee development and digital marketing strategies, Eide Automotive Group experienced exponential growth, expanding from 75 employees to nearly 300 across their three stores. “We’ve been very lucky to have attracted some very talented people that we’ve developed and are still with us today. One employee from that time period, Adam Griffith, is in training to be the General Manager of our Mandan store. He started with us in 2009, which is right around the same time as when we started heavily focusing on our people. We were also ahead of the curve on digital marketing. We were very focused on having a good, reliable website and online presence. Essentially, our people, digital marketing, and sheer luck converged in one place to allow us to take off. We’re able to afford to have hundreds of people working for

us and bringing a positive impact to the Bis-Man area through our dealerships,” Peterson said. Another challenge that Peterson and Eide Automotive Group faced, while positive, was the growing pains that went with the oil industry’s rapid growth. “It may not seem like a hurdle to many because we saw a major increase in business, but we didn’t have the infrastructure or staff to handle the level of customers during that rush. We had to grow since it doesn’t happen overnight, but we went through some serious growing pains,” Peterson said.

Did You Know? Eide Automotive Group is the largest automotive dealership group in the BismarckMandan area, comprising multiple dealerships, including Eide Ford, Eide Chrysler, and more.

Eide Automotive Group presenting a donation to the Dale Pahlke Rodeo Arena.

Contributing to the Community Beyond their commitment to business success, Eide Automotive Group maintains a strong dedication to community involvement, as charitable donations and actions have always held significant importance to the Eide Automotive Group team. Engaging in various charitable endeavors, the group forms partnerships with local sports teams, such as the Bismarck Larks and Bismarck Bobcats. Additionally, their annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month initiative has resulted in significant contributions to the Bismarck Cancer Center, amounting to over $175,000 in donations to date. Eide Automotive Group's philanthropic efforts extend to initiatives such as the Dale Pahlke Rodeo Arena in Mandan, where they have made substantial contributions. Furthermore, their generosity extends to individual acts of goodwill, including gifting a brand-new Ford F-150 to a military veteran who served in both Iraq and Vietnam.

Eide Automotive Group’s heartwarming truck donation to veteran Bob Olzweski

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Eide Automotive Group presenting a recent donation to the Bismarck Cancer Center.

Future Vision and Goals

new locations, emphasizing the significance of maintaining a strong work culture.

Looking ahead, Eide Automotive Group aims to solidify its current operations by ensuring a strong foundation and providing long-term career paths for its employees. “After some dealership purchases, we have some pieces to put in place and employees to get comfortable with taking the next step in their careers. Currently, much of my time is focused on developing our executive-level management so that they can be set up for success,” Peterson said.

Eide Automotive Group's remarkable success in the Bismarck-Mandan area can be attributed to several key factors: a passionate founder, strategic acquisitions, a focus on attracting and retaining top talent, a commitment to exceptional customer experiences, and active community involvement.

Simultaneously, the group actively seeks opportunities for further expansion, aiming to acquire at least one additional dealership within the next two years. The decision to open new dealerships will be based on the dealership's potential and the willingness of their trained and trusted employees to work in

By weathering challenges, adapting to change, and fostering a culture of growth and innovation, Eide Automotive Group has established itself as a beacon of excellence in the automotive industry. As they continue to evolve, Eide Automotive Group remains dedicated to providing outstanding service to their community and exceeding expectations in every endeavor they undertake.

By Grant Ayers

The New Frontier of Marketing In today's digital landscape, your online reputation is not just a part of your brand; it is the cornerstone of how customers perceive and interact with your business. With the proliferation of social media, review platforms, and online forums, managing your online reputation has become an essential, ongoing conversation between businesses and consumers. It's a dynamic process where companies can build trust, loyalty, and a formidable online presence.

Why It's Essential An effectively managed online reputation allows businesses to connect with customers on a personal level. This engagement is crucial for several reasons: • Building Relationships: Regular interactions with customers foster a sense of community and loyalty.

Managing Online Reputation Building Trust in the Digital Age arketing is the lifeline that connects businesses to consumers. In today's world, the approach to marketing has shifted dramatically, and so has the associated cost. While big names might have the budget to pour into expansive campaigns, marketing on a shoestring budget is the stark reality for many small to mediumsized businesses. However, with innovative strategies like guerrilla marketing, user-generated content campaigns, and leveraging social media influencers, businesses can still make a considerable impact without breaking the bank.

Did You Know? 42

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According to an Inc.com research study, an estimated 84% of people trust online reviews as much as a personal recommendation.

• Insight Gathering: Customer feedback is a goldmine for understanding market needs and improving products or services. • Crisis Management: Quick and thoughtful responses to negative incidents can mitigate damage to your brand’s reputation.

Key Elements for Effective Management • Comprehensive Monitoring: Keep an eye not just on review sites, but also on social media mentions, blog posts, and news articles. Tools like Google Alerts, Mention, or Hootsuite can be invaluable for this. • Authentic Engagement: Personalize your responses. Generic replies can sometimes do more harm than good. • Encouraging Positive Sharing: Incentivize happy customers to share their experiences online. This could be through loyalty programs or exclusive offers. • Handling Criticism Professionally: Negative feedback should be tackled with empathy and a willingness to resolve the issue. Sometimes a well-handled complaint can turn a dissatisfied customer into a loyal one.

According to a Qualtrics study completed in 2020, 91% of 18-34-year-olds trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.

Strategies to Leverage Customer Feedback • Utilize Customer Feedback Surveys: Regularly deploy targeted surveys to gather more structured feedback. This approach can help identify specific areas of improvement and gauge overall customer satisfaction. Use platforms like SurveyMonkey or Google Forms for easy distribution and analysis. • Create a Community Forum: Establish a platform where customers can interact, share experiences, and provide feedback. This forum not only serves as a feedback tool but also fosters a community around your brand, enhancing customer loyalty. • Implement Review Mining: Analyze online reviews using AI tools to extract insights and trends. This can help understand the broader customer sentiment and identify common themes in feedback. • Incorporate Feedback in Product Development: Show your customers that their opinions matter by integrating their suggestions into product or service updates. Sharing these developments on your platforms can boost customer engagement and loyalty. • Leverage Social Listening Tools: Use tools like Brandwatch or Sprout Social to monitor what

customers are saying about your brand across different social media platforms. This real-time feedback can be invaluable for immediate response and longterm strategy development. • Use Feedback for Personalized Marketing: Tailor your marketing efforts based on customer feedback. This personalization can significantly enhance customer experience and brand perception. • Develop a Reputation Recovery Plan: In cases of negative feedback, have a clear plan in place to address and resolve the issue. This plan should include steps for communicating with the customer and rectifying the situation. • Spotlight Customer Reviews in Marketing Materials: Feature positive reviews prominently on your website and in marketing campaigns. Authentic customer testimonials can be powerful in building trust with potential customers. • Regularly Share Feedback Internally: Ensure that customer feedback is shared with all relevant departments. This helps in aligning various aspects of your business with customer needs and expectations.

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FUN FACT

Real-World Examples of Success

Negative reviews can reduce the number of applicants a company receives by up to 22%, according to a LinkedIn recruitment agency study.

Ritz-Carlton

Amazon

This luxury hotel chain goes beyond just responding to online reviews; they use customer feedback to improve their services, thereby enhancing their reputation for excellence.

Despite its size, Amazon has maintained a strong reputation for customer service, largely through its efficient response system and customer-centric return policies.

Zappos

Slack

This company is renowned for its customer service and regularly uses customer feedback to enhance its service offerings. They actively involve customers in decision-making processes, showing that they truly value customer input.

The messaging platform actively uses customer feedback to refine its product. They maintain transparency about how customer input shapes their product updates, fostering a sense of community and shared development.

Warby Parker

JetBlue Airways

This eyewear company is known for its exceptional customer service on social media, often going above and beyond in addressing customer concerns.

Known for its customer service, JetBlue actively engages with customers on Twitter, often responding to queries and concerns within minutes. CONTINUED

Businesses that reply to their reviews at least 25% of the time average 35% more revenue, according to a recent 2020 study from GatherUp.

JANUARY 2024

Responding to reviews can lead to an average rating increase of 0.12 stars, according to a Harvard business study.

Maintaining a Positive Brand Image Online

• Unified Brand Voice and Visual Identity: It's crucial to maintain a consistent brand voice and visual identity across all online platforms. This uniformity helps in reinforcing brand recognition and trust. Ensure your website, social media profiles, and all digital communications reflect your brand's tone, style, and values. • Strategic Content Creation: Invest in creating high-quality, engaging content that aligns with your brand’s messaging. This can include educational blog posts, informative videos, and eye-catching graphics that provide value to your audience. Regularly update your digital platforms with engaging, relevant content. This can include blog posts, videos, or infographics that align with your brand values and appeal to your target audience. Remember, content that resonates with your audience will more likely be shared, increasing your brand’s visibility. • Employee Engagement and Training: Employees can be your best brand ambassadors. Encourage them to share your content and engage with your brand online. However, it's also important to provide them with proper training on how to represent your brand on social media to avoid any potential mishaps. • Leveraging Customer Testimonials: Showcase customer testimonials prominently on your website and social media. These testimonials act as social proof and can significantly influence potential customers.

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• Active Social Media Management: Regularly post on your social media channels and engage with your audience. Respond to comments, share relevant industry news, and create interactive content like polls or Q&A sessions to keep your audience engaged. • Monitoring Brand Mentions: Use tools to monitor when your brand is mentioned online. This allows you to quickly respond to any mentions, whether they are positive or negative, and shows that your brand is attentive and responsive.

CASE STUDY Starbucks' "Race Together" campaign, meant to encourage conversations about race, faced significant backlash online, demonstrating how online sentiments can impact brand perception.

• Crisis Management Plan: Have a crisis management plan in place. In case of a negative incident, having a strategy on how to address it quickly and effectively can prevent longterm damage to your brand’s image. • Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with influencers who align with your brand values. These partnerships can amplify your brand's message and reach a larger audience. • SEO for Reputation Management: Invest in SEO strategies to ensure that positive content about your brand ranks high on search engine results pages. This includes optimizing your website, publishing quality content, and building backlinks. • Regular Analysis and Adaptation: Regularly analyze your online presence and adapt your strategies as needed. Use analytics to track the performance of your content, understand audience behavior, and refine your approach accordingly.

In the age of digital interconnectedness, managing your online reputation is not just an option, it's a necessity. By effectively leveraging strategies like engaging with customer feedback, encouraging positive reviews, and maintaining a consistent brand voice, businesses can navigate the complexities of the digital world to build and maintain trust with their audience. Remember, your online reputation is a dynamic asset that requires ongoing attention and care. As a business owner or marketer, your role in shaping this narrative is vital to your brand’s success in the digital marketplace.

A N U P D AT E F R O M PAV E W I S E Brittany Wuori COO/co-founder

Step into the fascinating world of Pavewise, an up-and-coming asphalt software startup that's on the path to success! In this monthly feature, we'll be right there alongside Pavewise, cheering them on as they grow and face various challenges. From their victories to the obstacles they encounter, we'll witness it all. Get ready to be inspired by their journey as they strive to make a difference in the asphalt industry.

Bryce Wuori CEO/co-founder

Gary Ussery

'Tis the season for more than just decking the halls—our roads, too, get into the festive spirit with a recordbreaking dance of wheels! Did you know that during Christmas, roads witness a merry marathon of the most miles traveled? It's as if our highways trade the ribbon of asphalt for a ribbon of cheer, connecting families and friends across the country. Amidst this holiday hustle, the importance of a good quality asphalt road becomes as evident as the bright lights on a Christmas tree. A well-paved road ensures not only smooth travels but also becomes the overlooked hero of seasonal celebrations, bearing the weight of full cars en route to cherished gatherings. So, as you embark on your festive journey, remember to thank the road beneath your wheels—it's the real MVP of this joyous road trip extravaganza! Pavewise’s web-based software maximizes productivity and improves project quality resulting in increased incentives and profits for paving contractors. Variables such as weather, project specifications, and equipment operations impact every paving project. By efficiently managing project variables and integrating paving solutions, Pavewise develops a strategy for success for every paving project. In 2023, Pavewise successfully assisted in managing over $13 million in paving projects across the United States. We are the first intelligent construction software built for improving asphalt paving efficiencies and profits.

JANUARY 2024

Provided by Pavewise

WELCOME TO THE TEAM!

HELP WANTED/ASKS • Always looking for connections with state DOTs and Infrastructure Agencies. • Looking to connect with any paving contractors or asphalt professionals.

SCAN ME

• We are searching for an Intern or part-time Office Assistant. To obtain more info on this job opening, check our website here:

RECENT HIGHLIGHTS

Steven Brown Full Stack Developer

Aaron Motacek Full Stack Engineer

• Bryce was able to present at the Alaska Asphalt Pavement Summit 2023 and made some great new connections! • Bryce was pardoned for jury duty so he could make it to the Indiana Asphalt Expo! So thankful for Burleigh County’s forgiveness and understanding. • We were invited to perform a workshop and presentation for a current client during their annual company meeting to expand our services across their entire corporation! • Our CTO, Jase, interviewed potential dev interns for 2024 Q1. • Our dev team improved our internal sales cycle by ensuring our accounting and CRM are linked appropriately—big win! • Tellwell finalized our 30-second commercial video! You can watch it on our YouTube channel @Pavewise. • We are moving towards continuous discovery, improving development, and providing more value to customers.

Jase Kraft CTO

Michael Howey Product Manager

• Our social media content is fully automated with our Facebook job board up and running thanks to our Product Manager, Michael. • Drip campaigns with Planet OB have been implemented to improve prospecting efforts.

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Provided by Pavewise

RECENT LOWLIGHTS • The time to close on quotes and sales with customers is taking longer than expected. We are actively working to find a more streamlined process.

THE PRODUCT • New Calendar UI Update • Weather Logs Saved on Project • General Bug Fixes • Switched from AWS to GCloud to utilize start-up credits • Pavewise Vision is finalized! • Check out our app for a free trial today at app. pavewisepro.com

KPIS/CORE METRICS • Tons: 147,523 tons of roads were managed through the Pavewise app in 2023. • Active Users: 40 active • Retention: 100%

JANUARY 2024

Provided by Pavewise

UPCOMING EVENTS • Mid-Atlantic Asphalt Expo & Conference 2023 in Richmond, VA • 2023 APAI Winter Conference and Expo in Muncie, IN (Newly added!) • 2023 Florida Asphalt Expo in Orlando, FL • National Pavement Expo 2024 in Tampa, FL • Pave X 2024 in San Antonio, TX • 51st Rocky Mountain Asphalt Conference 2024 in Denver, CO • World of Asphalt 2024 in Nashville, TN

KUDOS • Thank you to Rich and Steve for inviting Bryce out to speak at the Alaska Asphalt Summit! • Thank you to Dave Johnson with the Asphalt Institute for the mentorship and for helping with future conference opportunities! • Thank you to Sam with M25 for the accounting support! • Thank you to Dana with Clearwater Communications and Cindy with Harvestone for meeting with both Bryce and I. We appreciate the valuable time spent together! pavewisepro.com bryce.wuori@pavewisepro.com /company/pavewise app.pavewisepro.com

• Thank you to Jonathan and Ben for your help with our revenue template! We appreciate your time and expertise as we continually work to figure out our most important tracking numbers! We hope you all had a wonderful holiday season! Cheers, Brittany Wuori, COO & Bryce Wuori, CEO

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By Grant Ayers |

Provided by Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area

Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area Photo Courtesy of Rich Barrios Photography Nonprofit organizations are oftentimes overlooked in the community due to a lack of promotional funds and advertising, amongst other reasons. To help spread awareness of these efforts being made, we feature a local nonprofit in each issue that we believe deserves a spotlight shined on the great work that they’ve done and continue to do within the community. Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area is a nonprofit community-based volunteer organization. Rebuilding Together is dedicated to helping low-income homeowners in Bismarck and Mandan, ND live in warmth, safety, and independence. I connected with Mark Haag, President of the Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area Board, to discuss the organization's history and original intentions, its evergrowing team, how readers can get involved, and much more.

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Founded in 1997, Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area started with a clear mission: to preserve affordable homeownership and revitalize neighborhoods. "Rebuilding Together Bismarck Mandan is a nonprofit community-based all-volunteer organization. We are the only nonprofit organization working to preserve affordable homeownership and revitalize neighborhoods by providing free home repairs to homeowners in need, with no cost to the homeowner," Haag said. This vision was born from the recognition that many homeowners, due to physical or financial limitations, were unable to maintain their homes. The journey has been nothing short of remarkable. "We're part of a larger network of over 200 nationwide Rebuilding Together organizations, rooted in a small

Texas community's efforts back in 1973," Haag said. These efforts gained national attention, evolving into a year-round mission of helping neighbors and strengthening communities. In 2023 alone, the organization rebuilt 20 homes with the aid of 144 volunteers, accumulating over 1,794.5 hours of labor. "This doesn't even include the countless hours our board members volunteer daily," Haag said. The organization's impact is profound, having mobilized 6,850 local volunteers and raised over $1.4 million in support, rehabilitating around 190 homes and nonprofit sites in the community. Looking ahead, 2024 will be Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area's 27th year impacting our local community.

The Roots of Rebuilding Together "Rebuilding Together’s roots date back to 1973 when a small group of people in Midland, TX, realized a growing need in their community. Homes in their community had fallen into disrepair and their neighbors could not afford to fix them on their own. The group volunteered their time and skills to rehabilitate the homes of their neighbors. News of the group’s good work spread slowly, but eventually achieved national recognition. The mission spread beyond the idea of providing service once a year to bringing together partners from all walks of life to help our neighbors year-round. The national office opened in 1988 and became 'Rebuilding Together.'" - Rebuilding Together Website

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Photo Courtesy of Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area

What sets Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area apart is its commitment to providing services completely free of charge to homeowners. "Our goal is to revitalize our community and ensure everyone lives in a home that is warm, safe, and dry," Haag said. The organization tailors its services to low-income homeowners, particularly the elderly, disabled, veterans, and families with children. "We provide a variety of home repairs that include, but are not limited to, carpentry, plaster repairs, interior and exterior painting, window and door repair, replacing flooring, plumbing, electrical, replacing old appliances, and installing accessibility devices and ramps," Haag said. Donors can rest assured that their contributions go directly toward a range of home repairs, from carpentry to installing accessibility devices. Haag encourages community involvement in various forms, from financial donations to volunteering on Rebuilding Day. "There are plenty of volunteering opportunities, available at our website, if people would like to assist Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area in ways other than monetarily," Haag said.

JANUARY 2024

"Even liking and sharing posts on social media pages such as Facebook and Instagram makes a difference. Sharing posts and telling people about our organization's mission goes a long way." There are numerous ways to support this incredible nonprofit beyond financial contributions. Community members can volunteer for the upcoming Rebuilding Day in May 2024, join the board as a board member, donate new items (such as tools and materials), and participate in upcoming events by Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area. Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area stands as a testament to the power of community, compassion, and collective effort. Through the tireless work of volunteers and the generous support of donors, this organization continues to make the Bismarck-Mandan area a better place, one home at a time. For more information on Rebuilding Day and the upcoming Bowling Fundraiser and Silent Auction, learn more at their website and get involved today!

Photo Courtesy of Rich Barrios Photography

Volunteering with Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area has two volunteer opportunities for board members of all skill levels: Serve on a House Team and help with volunteer-friendly work. This work could include anything from interior/exterior painting, installing ADA grab bars and handrails, working on a wheelchair ramp, installing a fence, and much more. Serve on a Rebuilding Together committee. Committees include grant writing, house selection, social media, fundraising, etc.

About Rebuilding Together's Bowling Fundraiser and Silent Auction Join Rebuilding Together for a delightful afternoon at our Bowling Fundraiser and Silent Auction on February 24, 2024. This year's theme is 'Dress for a Luau,' so bring your tropical spirit! The funds raised will significantly contribute to their Rebuilding Day home projects, scheduled for May 10, 2024. Additionally, they are accepting donations for our Silent Auction, so please consider contributing items valued at $25 or more! And don't miss out on their 50/50 Raffle—it's always a crowd-pleaser! Your support and participation are key to making this event a success. Register your team today by getting in contact with Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area.

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Upcoming Events! Mark your calendars for the Bowling Fundraiser and Silent Auction on February 24, 2024, and the much-anticipated Rebuilding Day in May. These events not only raise crucial funds but also bring the community together in a shared mission of rebuilding and revitalization.

Photo Courtesy of Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area

Rebuilding Together Today "Rebuilding Together provides assistance for people who own their homes, but because of physical limitations or income, properly maintaining a home can be an impossible task. Typically, these individuals have a disability and/or are elderly. Many of our neighbors in the community cannot provide themselves with even the basics we take for granted. Typical home improvements include replacing floors and carpeting, improving plumbing and heating, replacing unsafe electrical wiring, replacing kitchen appliances, installing handicapaccessible devices and ramps, painting (exterior and interior), plaster repairs, replacing or repairing drafty windows and doors, installing smoke and CO2 detectors."

Photo Courtesy of Rich Barrios Photography

Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area By The Numbers Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area has raised more than $1,400,380 in grants, donations, and gifts, with more than 6,850 local volunteers pitching in to help rehabilitate approximately 190 homes and/or area charitable nonprofit sites throughout the Bismarck-Mandan community. In 2023 alone, 144 volunteers became involved in rebuilding 20 homes, which is 20 families' lives that were changed for the better.

- Rebuilding Together Greater Bismarck Mandan Area Website

rebuildingtogetherbisman.com rebuildingtogetherbisman@gmail.com 701-221-3232 /RebuildingTogetherBismarckMandan 58

JANUARY 2024

New Year, New Review Strategies for Small Business Success in 2024 By Julie Hinker, VBOC of The Dakotas Director Photo Courtesy of VBOC of the Dakotas

About the VBOC The Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) program is designed to provide entrepreneurial development services such as business training, counseling, and resource partner referrals to transitioning service members, veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, and military spouses interested in starting or growing a small business. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has 22 organizations participating in this cooperative agreement and serving as VBOCs.

I 60

JANUARY 2024

In the dynamic landscape of small business ownership, the annual ritual of a comprehensive yearly review stands out as a strategic imperative. As the new year unfolds, entrepreneurs and small business owners are presented with a golden opportunity to reflect on the past, fine-tune strategies, and set the stage for a year of growth and prosperity. Let’s look at the significance of reviewing and assessing the last 12 months of your small business journey!

Hi nk er Strategic Alignment: Small businesses operate in a world of constant change. A yearly review provides a precious moment to align business strategies with evolving market trends and customer demands. It ensures that the business remains agile and responsive, ready to adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

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2. Financial Health Check: Examining financial records and performance metrics during the yearly review is essential for maintaining a healthy bottom line. It allows small business owners to identify areas of overspending, optimize budgets, and allocate resources strategically for the upcoming year. 3. Employee Engagement and Development: A small business's success is intrinsically tied to its team. The yearly review serves as a platform for evaluating employee performance, acknowledging achievements, and identifying areas for professional development. This not only boosts employee morale but also enhances the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the workforce.

Benefits of Reflection and Goal Setting 1.

Operational Efficiency: Reflecting on past successes and challenges enables small business owners to streamline operations. By identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies, they can implement improvements that contribute to increased productivity and costeffectiveness.

2. Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty: A deep dive into customer feedback and satisfaction metrics allows small businesses to refine their products or services. By addressing pain points and enhancing customer experience, businesses can cultivate loyalty and attract new clientele in the coming year.

3. Innovation and Growth: Goal setting is the driving force behind business evolution. Small businesses that establish clear and ambitious goals during the yearly review are better positioned to foster innovation, explore new markets, and achieve sustainable growth. 4. Risk Mitigation: Through reflection, small business owners can identify potential risks and develop proactive strategies for mitigation. This forward-thinking approach minimizes the impact of unforeseen challenges and fortifies the business against economic uncertainties. In essence, the yearly review is not just a formality; it's a blueprint for success in the unpredictable world of small business. By embracing the twin pillars of reflection and goal setting, small business owners can navigate the intricacies of their industry with confidence, resilience, and a clear vision for the future. Once your annual business review has covered the company’s performance over the course of 2023, it’s time to start paving a pathway through 2024!

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The dynamic business landscape, coupled with the evolving economic climate, demands a fresh perspective and strategic approach for sustained success. To round out this article, let’s discuss five key strategies that small businesses can employ to navigate the intricacies of the year ahead and position themselves for growth, adaptability, and profitability in the new year.

Embrace Technology Advancements In the rapidly evolving digital era, technology is not just a luxury but a necessity for small businesses. In 2024, staying abreast of the latest technological advancements is imperative for maintaining competitiveness. Investing in userfriendly and efficient software solutions can streamline operations, enhance productivity, and improve customer experiences. Cloud-based tools, artificial intelligence, and automation technologies offer small businesses the opportunity to optimize their processes. From inventory management to customer relationship management (CRM) systems, adopting technology can drive efficiency and provide a competitive edge. Moreover, e-commerce platforms and digital marketing tools empower businesses

JANUARY 2024

to reach a wider audience and capitalize on online opportunities.

Prioritize Cybersecurity Measures With the increasing reliance on digital tools and online platforms, cybersecurity has become a top priority for small businesses. As cyber threats continue to evolve, implementing robust security measures is crucial for safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining the trust of customers. Small businesses should invest in cybersecurity solutions, conduct regular risk assessments, and educate employees on best practices for online security. Taking proactive steps to protect against cyber threats not only preserves the integrity of business operations but also enhances the reputation of the business. In an age where data breaches are a constant threat, businesses that prioritize cybersecurity demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding their customers' information.

Adapt to Remote Work Trends The global shift toward remote work has transformed the traditional workplace, and small businesses

must adapt to this paradigm shift to attract and retain top talent. In 2024, fostering a flexible work environment can be a key driver of success. Embracing remote work not only expands the talent pool by allowing businesses to hire from a broader geographic area but also contributes to employee satisfaction and worklife balance. To facilitate remote work, small businesses should invest in collaboration tools, project management software, and virtual communication platforms. Creating a supportive virtual work culture fosters connectivity and collaboration among team members, ensuring that productivity remains high even in a dispersed work environment.

Focus on Sustainability Sustainability is no longer a buzzword; it's a business imperative. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing ecofriendly and socially responsible products and services. Small businesses that integrate sustainable practices into their operations not only contribute to environmental and social goals but also appeal to a growing market segment. In 2024, small businesses can explore sustainable sourcing, energy-efficient practices, and waste reduction initiatives. Communicating

these efforts to customers through marketing and branding can enhance the business's reputation and attract environmentally conscious consumers. Sustainability is not only ethically sound but also economically viable, as it often leads to cost savings and long-term resilience.

Strengthen Customer Engagement In a competitive market, customer engagement is a cornerstone of small business success. Building strong relationships with customers fosters loyalty and can be a powerful driver of growth. In 2024, small businesses should leverage technology and data analytics to understand customer preferences, personalize experiences, and anticipate needs. Social media platforms, email marketing, and customer feedback channels provide valuable insights into customer behavior. Implementing a customer relationship management (CRM) system can help businesses organize and analyze customer data, enabling targeted marketing strategies and personalized communication. A focus on exceptional customer service and proactive engagement can set small businesses apart from the competition.

Diversify Revenue Streams Economic uncertainties and market fluctuations underscore the importance of diversifying revenue streams for small businesses. Relying on a single product or service can leave a business vulnerable to downturns in specific industries.

In 2024, small businesses should explore new markets, expand product lines, and seek opportunities for partnerships or collaborations. Diversification not only spreads risk but also opens avenues for innovation and growth. Small businesses can adapt to changing market dynamics by being agile and exploring untapped opportunities. Conducting regular market research and staying attuned to industry trends can provide valuable insights for identifying new revenue streams.

focusing on technology adoption, cybersecurity, remote work trends, sustainability, customer engagement, revenue diversification, and financial management, small businesses can position themselves for growth and navigate the challenges of the dynamic business landscape in the year ahead. As the new year unfolds, let the power of a yearly review propel your small business toward a year of innovation, growth, and sustained success.

Enhance Financial Management Sound financial management is the backbone of small business success. In 2024, businesses should prioritize financial health by maintaining accurate accounting records, monitoring cash flow, and budgeting effectively.

VBOC of the Dakotas 701-738-4850 und.edu/dakotasvboc /dakotasvboc @DakotasVBOC 4200 James Ray Dr Grand Forks, ND

Small businesses should also consider seeking the advice of financial professionals to navigate complex financial decisions. Establishing relationships with banks and financial institutions can facilitate access to capital when needed. A proactive and strategic approach to financial management ensures that the business is well-positioned to weather economic uncertainties and capitalize on growth opportunities. As small businesses embark on the journey into 2024, embracing change and adopting strategic approaches are paramount for success. The convergence of technology, sustainability, and evolving consumer preferences demands agility, innovation, and resilience. By

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Photo Courtesy of Courtesy of Asian Gourmet Market

Women You Should Know

Qiuhong Toman OWNER, ASIAN GOURMET MARKET

JANUARY 2024

By Arielle Windham Empowered by Ladyboss Lifestyle

A Taste of Home

Bismarck Woman Brings International Flavors to Diverse Community Craving the Flavors of Home

Living and working in a different country provides a wealth of unique experiences. But sometimes we just need a taste of home. Bringing international ingredients to the North Dakota plains, as well as her own kitchen, inspired Qiuhong Toman to open the Asian Gourmet Market in 2014. Her background in general business studies didn’t quite prepare her for the challenges of owning and operating an international grocery, but her tenacity and commitment to doing even the smallest thing well have helped her business grow.

Toman, affectionally referred to as Ruby by her customers, originally came to the United States as a student. It’s an age-old story. Girl meets boy, they fall in love, and soon Toman found herself calling North Dakota home. The foods of our childhood have a special power over us, though, and despite being an ocean away from her native home, Toman longed for the flavors of home.

Today, the Asian Gourmet Market is an important part of Bismark’s international community, a gathering place for residents and those searching for new adventures through food, and a hub of multiculturalism in the region.

It took several years of hard work before Asian Gourmet Market opened its doors. Toman started small, perhaps too small. Anyone who shopped at that first location will remember the aisles packed from floor to ceiling with products from around the globe. There might not have been enough room for two carts to pass, but no one could pass up the opportunity to wander slowly up and down the aisles looking at all the exciting offerings.

“Back then, we usually had to travel to Minneapolis,” Toman said. She jokes that she opened Asian Gourmet Market just for her. “Because I wanted it so much, I decided I’m going to have one.” Toman and her husband began researching what it would take to open an international grocery. In addition to common business challenges such as space, staff, and overhead, Toman quickly realized she needed to master additional languages in order to communicate with her vendors. “You think it’s just a little bit of work, how hard can it be?,” she said. “but you have to know everything.”

A Labor of Love

With support from the community and her customers, Toman was soon looking for a larger location. In 2018 the store moved to its current location, 800 East Bowen Ave. In addition to more than doubling the square footage, Toman added five employees to her staff. She’s also expanded beyond Asian products to include fresh and packaged foods from Africa, South America, and Europe.

“I like to try out food from different cultures,” Toman said. “That’s why I keep adding, non-stop.”

Food Connects Us Asian Gourmet Market celebrates 10 years in business this fall. There have been plenty of challenges over the last decade, everything from a global pandemic to figuring out a new point-of-sale system. Regardless of size, Toman approaches each challenge with the same determination. “When a problem comes, there must be a way to solve it,” she said. “There is no secret to success. Everybody already knows it. If you cannot do the small things right—like sweeping the floor—how can you do big things? Small problems can be solved.” Toman is proud of what she has built for her family and Bismark’s international community. She might have started this journey for herself, but it’s the customers that inspire her to continue pushing forward. “People teach me a lot,” she said. Not only the ingredients and products they are looking for, but how to cook their cultural dishes. She takes notes, studies, and tries cooking for her family. Then she can be a resource for the next customer who comes in. “Food connects us,” she said. Whether it’s someone searching for the flavors of home or someone looking to explore a new cuisine, Toman is happy to see them wandering the aisles of Asian Gourmet Market.

Asian Gourmet Market 701-751-7464 /AsianGourmetMarket 800 E Bowen Ave, Bismarck, ND

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