But goCommute has commuter solutions that can help reduce the stress this summer.

Source: Unsplash.com/Barkhayot Juraev

Why Transportation is a Challenge in Hampton Roads

This region faces unique commuting hurdles. With so many rivers and the threat of sea level rise, bridges and tunnels make up most of the connections between cities and counties in the region. All these networks require constant upkeep, so there’s typically construction projects happening somewhere in the region on any given day, further exacerbating delays and making daily commutes unpredictable. That’s what makes an innovative program like goCommute so important to the region!

Smarter Commuter Options in Hampton Roads

With over 15 cities and counties that make up the region, commuting in Hampton Roads can seem like a major challenge. Here are some commuter options to explore this summer:

1. Carpooling: Sometimes known as ridesharing, carpooling involves sharing a ride with others traveling in the same direction. It reduces the number of vehicles on the road, leading to decreased traffic congestion. If you’re on the hunt for Hampton Roads rideshares, check out the ConnectingVA app! It’s free, and you can even use the points you earn when ridesharing with others for rewards at local restaurants.
2. Vanpooling: Vanpooling is ideal for groups commuting longer distances. Participants share a van, splitting costs and reducing individual expenses. goCommute offers affordable options for new vanpool groups, and even groups who lose a passenger or two throughout the year can also explore Hampton Roads vanpool options.
3. Biking and Walking: For shorter distances, biking or walking can be both healthy and economical. An active commute eliminates fuel costs and reduces environmental impact, if that’s your thing. Recently, more cities in Hampton Roads have invested in expanded bike lanes and repair stations, making the region more bike-friendly. Have a commute longer than 2 miles? Make it multi-modal! All transit modes in the region are bike-friendly, so you can use your bike for the first and last leg of your trip while the bus, train or ferry does the rest.

Source: Unsplash.com/Dustin Tramel

4. Public Transit: Speaking of public transit, did you know there are three transit agencies in Hampton Roads? That’s right – Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), Williamsburg Area Transit Authority (WATA) and Suffolk Transit serve the majority of the region with bus service. HRT also has light rail and ferry service. Plus, while it’s not a major mode, if you’re travelling between James City County and Surry, you could utilize the free ferry provided by the Virginia Department of Transportation! When you ride transit, you take more cars off the road (causing less congestion) and save hundreds on personal expenses.
5. Teleworking: If you work in a role that offers some flexibility, consider working from home! Teleworking is the ultimate commuter solution since it completely removes cars from the road during typical commuting hours. While your electricity bill might go up a bit, since you’ll be home using the internet a bit more, the cost is minimal compared to how much you might be spending when driving yourself to and from work every day during the week.

Benefits of a Smarter Commute

Commuting smarter brings lots of benefits. Here’s how a smarter commute could benefit you:

• Cost Savings: Reducing fuel consumption and vehicle wear leads to significant financial savings. Think of all the sweet treats you could buy instead of spending money on gas!
• Time Management: Avoiding traffic jams and utilizing faster commuting options can save valuable time. You might even be able to get some work done during your commute to save time while in the office!
• Environmental Impact: Fewer vehicles on the road means reduced greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to cleaner air.

Source: Unsplash.com/Honbike

• Health Benefits: Active commuting methods like biking and walking promote physical health. And when you feel better, you can perform better at work.
• Stress Reduction: Less time in traffic and more predictable commuting options can lead to lower stress levels. Let’s face it – we’re always looking for ways to reduce stress in our lives.

Taking the Next Step

Embracing a smarter commute can transform your daily routine, offering a variety of personal and community benefits. By making informed choices, you contribute to a more efficient, sustainable and enjoyable commuting experience in Hampton Roads this summer, and beyond!

The post Commuter Modes Explained: Here’s How You Can Commute Smarter This Summer in Hampton Roads appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

1. Know Your “Why” and Communicate It Clearly

Simon Sinek said it best: “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.” Your brand’s purpose, its “why” should be the heartbeat of everything you do. When you clearly communicate your values and mission, you create a sense of emotional branding and trust.

If your brand lacks clarity in its mission, consider working with a branding partner that can help articulate and amplify your message across every channel.

2. Define and Own Your Niche

Trying to be everything to everyone is a recipe for blending in. Instead, define a brand niche where you can lead. This doesn’t mean limiting your potential; it means smart brand positioning that maximizes your impact with the right audience.

Need help identifying where you stand out? Explore our brand strategy services to carve out your unique space.

3. Deliver a Consistent Brand Experience

Brand consistency builds familiarity, and familiarity breeds trust. From your website and social media to your customer service and packaging, your brand should feel seamless.

Use consistent visual branding, tone of voice, and messaging across platforms. A good creative marketing agency ensures these details reinforce your identity and help your audience recognize you instantly.

4. Create Value Beyond the Product

In a crowded marketplace, value creation isn’t just about what you sell, it’s about how you engage. Share content that educates, entertains, or inspires. Go beyond transactions to build brand loyalty through meaningful connections.

We help brands create content strategies that support brand storytelling, not just sales. Let’s talk if you’re ready to offer more than just a product.

5. Be Bold, Be Different

When everyone zigs, consider zagging. Standing out in a crowded market sometimes means taking creative risks or flipping the script.

Whether through a daring design, a new customer service approach, or an unconventional campaign, embracing your unique brand identity makes you unforgettable.

6. Leverage Social Proof and Authentic Voices

People trust people. Encourage user-generated content, share customer testimonials, and work with influencers who truly align with your brand voice and values.

These authentic voices generate more credibility than traditional ads, and they build trust faster. Looking to launch an influencer campaign? We can help you get started with the right partners.

Final Thoughts

How to stand out in a saturated market isn’t about shouting louder; it’s about connecting deeper. When your brand is rooted in purpose, focused on its niche, and committed to consistency and value, it becomes more than just another option. It becomes the choice.

Have questions about how this might affect your business?
Reach out to the Qantm Creative team—we’re here to help you stay ahead.

Written by Bill Brunelle, Qantm Creative President

The post How to Make Your Brand Unforgettable. Even in a Saturated Market appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

Source: Unsplash.com/Heybike

Why Bike Infrastructure Matters

Implementing bike-friendly amenities isn’t just about keeping up with the times; it’s about creating a vibrant, healthy and efficient workplace. Here are some key reasons why your office should have bike parking and other bike infrastructure:

1. Healthier, Happier Employees

Encouraging cycling to work can have profound health benefits. Regular cyclists often experience improved cardiovascular health, reduced stress levels and increased overall well-being. Plus, a little exercise before work can boost energy and productivity throughout the day. When your employees feel good, they work better.

2. Save on Parking and Space

Cars take up a lot of real estate. A single car parking spot can accommodate up to 10 bicycles. By providing bike racks instead of more car parking, you can optimize your office space and save money on expensive parking infrastructure. For organizations located on or near military bases, providing bike-friendly amenities can also ease the strain on limited military base parking options while promoting sustainable commuting.

3. Reduce Traffic and Improve Air Quality

Fewer cars on the road mean less congestion and cleaner air. When more people opt to cycle, everyone benefits from a smoother commute and better environmental conditions. And, while we’re not here to preach, cleaner air does sound pretty good, right?

4. Attract and Retain Talent

Offering bike-friendly amenities can set your company apart when it comes to recruiting. Younger workers, particularly those in the 25-40 age bracket, increasingly prioritize sustainability and work-life balance. Providing bike infrastructure shows you’re committed to those values.

Should Your Office Have Bike Parking?

Short answer? Absolutely. A bike-friendly business starts with secure and accessible bike parking. But don’t just toss a rack in the corner and call it a day — here are some best practices if you’re wondering whether your office should have bike parking available:

1. Location, Location, Location

Install bike parking near the main entrance to make it convenient for employees. If possible, keep the racks under cover to protect bikes from weather conditions. A visible, easily accessible spot signals that your business genuinely supports cycling.

2. Security is Key

No one wants to worry about their bike being stolen while they’re at work. Invest in sturdy, tamper-resistant racks and, if feasible, consider a secure bike storage room with employee-only access.

3. Room to Grow

As your business grows, so will the number of cyclists. Plan for future demand by installing more racks than you think you need. Aim for a ratio of one bike parking spot for every 10 employees.

Source: Unsplash.com/VISHAKHA JAIN

Building a Bike Infrastructure Program

Creating a robust bike infrastructure program involves more than just adding a few racks. You want to make cycling a practical and appealing option. Here’s a roadmap to get started:

1. Install Bike Repair Stations

A free bike repair station is a game-changer. Equipped with basic tools and an air pump, these stations empower employees to handle minor fixes on-site. By removing the fear of a flat tire ruining their day, you’re making bike commuting more accessible.

With goCommute’s BikeBoost program, organizations in Hampton Roads can apply to receive donated bike repair stations and bike racks – installed at no cost! Applications are accepted from May through September, making it easier than ever to bring bike-friendly infrastructure to your business. Why not give your employees one less excuse to skip their bike commute?

2. Offer Shower and Changing Facilities

Longer commutes or hot days mean some cyclists will want to freshen up. If space allows, providing showers and changing areas can make a world of difference. Even a basic setup with a shower stall and lockers helps employees feel more comfortable biking to work.

3. Encourage Resource Sharing

Knowledge is power! Provide your in-office employee tips on commuter cycling through internal newsletters or company chat channels. Topics might include:

• Local cycling routes and shortcuts
• Safety best practices (like wearing reflective gear)
• How to maintain and store a bike during work hours

This fosters a supportive cycling culture and encourages hesitant employees to give it a try.

4. Flexible Work Hours

Looking for just one simple but effective change? Let employees flex their schedules. This allows bike commuters to avoid rush-hour traffic or bad weather, making their ride safer and more appealing.

5. Provide Carpool Matching

For employees who live farther away or need a backup option, promote carpool matching in Hampton Roads through goCommute’s platform. This service connects commuters with others traveling in the same direction, providing an easy, sustainable solution to driving solo.

Source: Unsplash.com/Tasha Kostyuk

How to Promote Your Bike Infrastructure Program

Building bike infrastructure is a great start, but what about spreading the word to get employees excited? Here are some creative ways to engage your team:

1. Celebrate Bike Month

May is National Bike Month, making it the perfect opportunity to launch or refresh your bike infrastructure program. Organize a “Bike to Work” day with free coffee and snacks for cyclists and encourage participation with fun incentives like raffles or extra PTO.

2. Create a Bike Buddy System

New to biking? It can be intimidating. Pair experienced bike commuters with those curious to try it. This mentorship approach makes it easier for newbies to navigate routes, learn safety practices, and build confidence.

3. Offer Incentives

Through goCommute’s collaboration with DRPT, the ConnectingVA Rewards program allows employees to earn incentives for choosing sustainable commuting options like biking. By enrolling in the program, employees can track their bike commutes and receive points redeemable for cool rewards. It’s a no-brainer: bike more, earn more. For details, visit ConnectingVA Rewards.

How Bike Infrastructure Pays Off

Still on the fence? Here are some perks of investing in bike-friendly infrastructure:

• Lower Health Costs: Active employees tend to be healthier, leading to fewer sick days and reduced health insurance claims.
• Improved Retention: Providing bike amenities signals you care about your employees’ well-being, which can boost job satisfaction and retention.
• Positive Engagement: Promoting sustainable initiatives can enhance your brand image and attract eco-conscious customers.

Practical Tips for Getting Started

Ready to roll? Here are a few steps to kickstart your bike infrastructure journey:

1. Survey Your Team: Ask employees if they would use bike amenities and what features matter most to them.
2. Start Small: Begin with basic facilities like bike racks and repair stations, then expand as demand grows.
3. Partner with Local Groups: Collaborate with local cycling organizations to offer workshops or route planning assistance.

Final Thoughts

Investing in bike infrastructure isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s a strategic move toward a happier, healthier and more cost-effective workplace.

The post Bringing Bike Infrastructure to Your Business: The Ultimate Guide appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

Bryan is a retired U.S. Army officer and has won numerous military awards and decorations. During his distinguished 28-year career in the U.S. Army, he retired as a Colonel and his military qualifications include, among others, Ranger, Airborne, Pathfinder, Air Assault, and Joint Staff Officer.

Before assuming his current position in 2013 with the Chamber, Bryan served as President and CEO of Kalmar in San Antonio, Texas. In 2016, Bryan was awarded the Chamber Executive of the Year for the Commonwealth of Virginia by the Virginia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives and in 2017, 2018, and 2019, he was listed on Inside Business’s Top 25 Most Powerful People in Hampton Roads. Bryan has also been listed by Virginia Business as a Virginia 500 Power List honoree for several consecutive years.

On a personal note, Bryan enjoys playing a round of golf on the many scenic courses around Hampton Roads. Even when traveling, Bryan loves to squeeze in a tee time at his favorite courses. As you step foot in his office, you will certainly notice his love for our military. Patriotism is shown throughout his office in the form of artwork, flags, and countless challenge coins. When he is not on the course or in the office, Bryan loves to spend time with his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Click here to read Bryan’s full biography.

The post Meet the Team: Bryan K. Stephens appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

What are my membership benefits?

Aside from member-only pricing to all Chamber events and a complimentary annual subscription to Inside Business and CoVaBiz Magazine, your membership is so much more. With your membership, your company is not only listed in the Chamber’s online Membership Directory but also has access to post your job openings on the Job Search. Chamber members can also submit business updates and event flyers regularly to Member News as well as take advantage of Chamber Solutions discounts and the Member Discount Program. Contact your member representative to learn the many other perks of being a Hampton Roads Chamber member.

Who in my business can take advantage of membership benefits?

Everyone! Your membership isn’t just for your C-suite or owners. Make sure to spread the word that a chamber membership is for your entire business. We encourage you to tell your entire team about this perk and challenge them to attend one or more of our many events. There really is an event for everyone! Not only is this a great way to get involved, but it also shows the community that your business is loud and proud to be in business.

 In what ways can the Chamber connect me with other business professionals?

Not only does the Chamber put on over 100 events a year, but more than 20 of those events are at no cost to members and focus on networking. These events provide you with many opportunities to meet other business professionals here in Hampton Roads. Our B2B Expos are another great way to tell others about your business and to learn about other companies and nonprofits in the area. These events promote local business, encourage corporate networking, and allow companies to showcase new products and services at an affordable cost. The more chamber events that you attend, the more people you will meet!  

Is a Chamber membership suitable for my business or organization?

A Hampton Roads Chamber membership can help your business or nonprofit regardless of size. The Hampton Roads Chamber Signature Programs are great for businesses of all sizes and put you in the room with the region’s top leaders. The HRSHRM, Marketing Workshops, and other educational and professional development events are there to help small businesses with their specific needs.

Does the Chamber have referral incentives?

Absolutely! When a referred business or organization joins the Chamber, you will receive a $50 voucher. There is no limit to the number of referrals you can make! A larger membership base strengthens the Chamber’s voice advocating on issues of importance, enhances services for our members, and provides more business connections. Click here for additional information about the member referral program.

How can my business support the Chamber?

There are many different ways your business can support the Chamber. It really is just as simple as attending our events and telling others about your experiences as a chamber member. Another way you can show support is by sponsoring events. There is a wide variety of ways to get involved in our events. From being a program sponsor to even a speaking sponsorship where you get to put your business in front of many regional business leaders, we have a way for every business at every level to get involved.

How can I learn about upcoming events?

The best way to learn about our upcoming events is by visiting hrchamber.com. We strongly suggest scrolling to the bottom of our homepage to sign up for our emails to stay in the know.

After you sign up for emails, visit our events calendar to see all of our upcoming events. Click here to follow us on social media to learn about future events and to check out event recaps.

Click here to contact the Membership team to learn more about your membership or to join the Chamber.

The post Frequently Asked Questions: Hampton Road Chamber Membership Edition appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

Much remains to be seen but a bill that is steadily making its way through the Virginia General Assembly is legislation to raise the state minimum wage. Sponsored by Hampton Roads legislators Senator Louise Lucas and Delegate Jeion Ward, Senate Bill 1 and House Bill 1, respectively, increases the minimum wage from its current rate of $12 per hour to $13.50 in January 2025 and to $15 in January 2026.

We could spend an entire edition of CoVa Biz magazine debating the pros and cons of these bills but the bottom line is that small businesses would do well to start looking at their own bottom line. The time to prepare for a potential increase of 25% in wages to hourly employees in less than two years’ time is now.

I was talking recently with the owner of a popular Oceanfront attraction who is concerned about compression. He already pays above minimum wage but notes that as hourly wages increase due to market demands or legislation, his hourly workers start to bump against his salaried employees who expect their wages to increase accordingly. Increasing hourly wages effects all employees as they compare their salaries and wages to an established threshold.

How to counter increased costs? Increase prices and increase demand.

Pricing can be a tricky.  If you’ve gone out to eat lately you know that prices are already on the rise. Not to pick on restaurants – increases are happening across all industries – but restaurants are among the businesses who are most affected by changes to minimum wage along with much of the hospitality and tourism industry (see Oceanfront example above). We talk a lot about the three-legged economy of Hampton Roads – tourism, military and the Port of Virginia – but it doesn’t take an ODU economist to figure out which sector will be hit hardest by minimum wage.

If there is less room for prices to hike, then we need to focus on demand. Luckily this is an area where there seems to be more room for increase as in increased customer service, increased online presence and increased employee engagement.  These areas all offer opportunities for no-to-low cost tweaks that can help increase your business’s profile and drive new and repeat customers.

Even if HB 1/SB 1 doesn’t pass, the wage issue remains. Ask your friends in workforce development and they will tell you that it isn’t just minimum wage but overall wage rates that impact the business climate. Too many business owners don’t know where they stand among industry peers and competitors, especially if they are behind the curve, and it effects their ability to hire and retain a competitive workforce.

I realize I’ve skimmed a bit over the implementation strategies particularly with my breezy advice about tweaking your customer service and online presence. That’s partly a space issue and partly an opportunity for me to encourage you to connect with the small business champions that are already in your corner. Now is the time to reach out to your insurance broker, banker, accountant, human resources contacts, Chamber (ask about Wise Choice, a new program for healthcare savings), and, of course, the Hampton Roads SBDC. We are all available to support small businesses as you navigate wage issues and other business realities.

The post Wages, Prices, & Demand appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

 Gmail

Email is an essential part of your day, make it even easier with Gmail. You may already use Gmail for your personal email but do not forget that it can also be utilized for your business. You can even use custom email addresses with your business’s domain. This benefit within Google Workspace comes with security features and expanded storage capabilities.

 Google Drive

Make sure all of your documents are securely saved in one place! Google Drive is a great tool to not only save your items but also share them with others. With in-real-time editing capabilities, Google Drive is one of the best ways to collaborate with others.

 Google Calendar

Have your calendar at your fingertips! Google Calendar allows you to send calendar invites, color code your meetings, and so much more. Pro-tip: time block your calendar! By time blocking your calendar, you can set aside uninterrupted time for your tasks allowing you to give them your undivided attention.

Google Meet

Conquer virtual meetings for free with Google Meet. With beloved features like a chat and no time limits for meetings, Google Meet will set you up for virtual meeting success. It is as simple as setting up and meeting and sending a link! Are you always on the go? If so, download the app and take your meetings from your phone or tablet.

Do you use Google Workspace for your business? Click here to share your go-to Google business tips with the Hampton Roads Chamber.

The post Reasons to Use Google Workspace for Your Business appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

HubSpot Academy Courses

With courses spanning from 20 minutes to several hours, HubSpot Academy has you covered! Not only are these courses free, but most courses can provide you with a certification on the subject matter. A few of the many topics covered are SEO, email and social media marketing, building a marketing strategy, and AI utilization.

Meta Blueprint Marketing Lessons

You may be familiar with Meta from a social media standpoint, but did you know you can learn from Meta too? Meta Blueprint has a course catalog that can help you prepare to bring your business online, how to establish an online presence, ways to build a relationship and an audience, as well as how to improve your strategy and get the most out of your Facebook and Instagram accounts.

Meta Blueprint provides marketing lessons through real-life examples. Each lesson shares information about a business and how that business utilizes the subject matter that is provided. With great graphics and simplified text, Meta Blueprint is a great resource for business owners that are wanting to build their social media marketing skills.

Constant Contact Blog

Are you having a hard time finding marketing advice specific to your industry? If so, Constant Contact’s marketing blog is your new best friend. You can find marketing articles specific to real estate, retail and restaurants, travel and tourism, legal services, and much more. If you are looking for general marketing advice, Constant Contact has you covered there too.

Do you know of any marketing resources we should know about? If so, click here to let the Hampton Roads Chamber Marketing and Communications team know!

The post Free Online Marketing Resources appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

Here are a few affordable and easy-to-use items from Amazon to start your podcast!

USB audio interface

Arguably, this is the most important piece of equipment for your podcast. You don’t need to spend a crazy amount of money to produce a podcast when there is a great option right around $100 that you can find on Amazon. The PreSonus AudioBox 96 is a great USB audio interface that is compatible for both PC and Apple devices. This interface not only has mixer controls but also two microphone inputs to allow for a host/guest podcast experience. This interface allows you to keep it simple yet produce high-quality podcasts.

Editing and recording software

When starting to edit a podcast, simple is best! There are many paid audio editing options out there and some free options that may come with your PC. Our pro tip is to utilize the editing and recording software that comes with your audio interface. If you decide to purchase a PreSonus AudioBox, check to see if you have free access to StudioOne software. This user-friendly software allows us to cut clips, insert independent sound clips, save them as an MP3 file, and much more.

Grab a Microphone (or two)

You can’t record without a microphone! For the Hampton Roads Chamber Podcast, we use Amazon Basics Dynamic Vocal Microphones and Amazon Basics XLR Microphone Cables. Another important aspect is having comfortable microphone stands. The BILIONE 3 in 1 Multi-function Desktop Microphone Stand will allow you to adjust your microphone height and angle and ensure a comfortable recording session.  Once again, nothing fancy is needed here-just quality microphones that will do their job making you and your podcast guests sound great.

Are you a podcaster and would like to share your podcasting hacks? Click here to share your tips with the Hampton Roads Chamber.

The post Podcasting Equipment Under $300 appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

1. Find your “why”

The first question to ask yourself is “why do I want to start a podcast?” Do you want to share industry-specific tips? Do you want to share the products and services your business offers? Do you want to interview other business professionals?  When you find your why, you will find the purpose behind your podcast which is your starting point

2. Plan out your content

Take a few minutes to sit down and plan what you would like to share or discuss. If your podcast is going to be on your top 5 services, then take a few moments and write those services down and how they are beneficial to your target audience. This will help improve the flow of your episodes. Do you plan to have guests on your podcast? If so, make sure you provide them with the questions you plan to ask before recording so that they can properly prepare. The more you plan out your content, the better it will be.

3. Don’t let technology get in the way

Podcasting can be as simple or elaborate as you would like. When it comes down to it, all you need is a quiet room, a laptop, an audio interface, a microphone (or two) with a stand, and editing software. All of this equipment can even be found on Amazon for under $300.

4. Record regularly

Don’t leave your listeners hanging, make sure to record regularly and stick to a consistent schedule. For example, for the Hampton Roads Chamber Podcast, we upload a new podcast every week to make sure our listeners have a new episode to listen to on their morning walk or commute. Consistency is key to growing your listener base.

5. Promote your podcast

Once your podcast is live, you can share it on all of your platforms. Make sure to share your latest episodes on social media and have them linked on your website. Do you have a newsletter? If so, make sure to share your podcast on that as well. The more you share, the more your audience will listen!

Are you a podcaster and would like to share your tips for starting a podcast? Click here to share your tips with the Hampton Roads Chamber.

Stay tuned for the second part of this blog series where we share how and where to buy affordable podcasting equipment.

The post 5 Tips for Starting a Podcast appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.