We recently had a great meeting with our Regional Leadership Council. One of the featured speakers was Quentin Messer, the new CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corp. He spoke about the MEDC’s commitment to upward economic mobility for all Michiganders, shared goals for growing the economy and for Michigan to become a four-season destination for investment and growth in North America – and, the need for all businesses and economic developers to help his team meet the goals.
His presentation was interesting and motivational, and he had an important reminder about the power of speaking positively about our region and Michigan. If we don’t speak confidently and positively about our region then why would we expect others to do so? Telling our great stories is one of the ways we can change outdated perceptions, over time.
Like other communities in Michigan, there’s no doubt that Flint and Genesee County has been significantly impacted by the pandemic, especially our small businesses. However, it does not define who we are. We are resilient, hard-working people who care about our families and neighbors and the communities in which we live. We also have strong fundamentals in place to attract investment and jobs, highly skilled talent, and create economic vitality and improve quality of life.
Keep this top of mind and take every opportunity to share positive stories about the virtues of Flint & Genesee. We should talk proudly about our strengths and assets, new investments, a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem, jobs – for youth and adults, partnerships that are helping this region move forward together, and much more.
To continue our forward momentum, we need everyone to be community champions by helping to spread the word on what’s great about living, working and visiting Flint & Genesee. Following are a few suggestions:
- Learn our community. Understand who we are today and the lifestyles, economic opportunities and amenities that the region offers. One of the great ways to do this is to become a certified tourism ambassador. Visit our CTA webpage to learn more
- Correct misinformation any time you hear it or read it. Use our website as a resource and if you are still unsure, give our team a call and we’ll help you get the facts.
- Share positive news reported in the news media or from the Flint & Genesee Group and our divisions found in the newsroom at org. Also, follow us on our social media pages including the Flint & Genesee Chamber, Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance, Flint & Genesee Education & Talent, Explore Flint & Genesee and Flint & Genesee Group.
Lastly, keep in mind that each one of us can influence how our region is viewed, through every day conversation and interactions that you have, with individuals within the community and those outside. Positivity is contagious!
Tim