A Year Old and Learning

I've learned a great deal in this past year.  I've also raced through a variety of moods and thoughts about my mission.  I'm proud to say my Travel Backroads website has been rock'in it for a year now. So, Happy Birthday to my website!!

So a couple things I have learned...

I've learned that I'm NOT much of a sales person.  I believe my business should succeed on it's own merit. In other words, look at it, see the price and what I'm offering you. It's a NO BRAINER!! :D I know there is a likelihood it could fail because I am not a salesperson. I like the fact that my videos (social media and youtube) can talk for themselves. I'm loving the word of mouth system too!  

I've learned that although you think people are loyal, they are not always.  Disappointingly, I'm able to put a name to it  and recognize it in people I trusted.  I therefore have to move in a new direction and decide then how I feel about trust with others. I want the people I serve with my website, and the businesses I promote "locally", to trust me, and let it be obvious.

I've learned that businesses are working every minute of the day to stay alive.  In just this past year, two businesses that I am aware of and had contact with, closed their doors.  I actually am sad when that happens because it might mean another empty building on a rural community's main street.  It could mean that person worked endlessly only to have their hopes and dreams dashed.  Hopefully they find their next niche'.

I've also learned that some businesses do not know how to play well with others. In other words, "collaboration".  Some owners are in biz strictly for themselves and not for others.  This day and age businesses that are succeeding are working together and bringing customers to their little world because of that. 

I've learned in the 8 years I've been an economic development director, there is a 'new rural' that seems to be emerging on the scene. There is something different in the air now. The synergy level seems off the charts in my small regional realm.  "Newcomers" and "Returnees" are also leading a charge. New ideas are breaking out and the sky is the limit; work with those that feel the same way.

In closing, I've also learned that I'm grateful for those that comment to me that they appreciate what I stand for and what I bring to "local". The feedback has been amazing and I'm appreciative that you notice it.  You've noticed the fact that this...

Is NOT a JOB TO ME- but something more.

--oh YAH--It is my PASSION! And learning, in all its forms, is great! 

Happy July and find your piece of synergy for local,
​
Joan, back from a 'blogging hiatus'
Owner of Travel Backroads
Fiercely Loyal

If you or you get someone else to sign-up for my emails, I will give them 20% off a new basic listing price for their business or a business of their choosing.   

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