Business
Bollin on Business: What do we want to be when we grow up?
By Mark Bollin
The economic growth of the Green Valley and Sahuarita area has been phenomenal over the last four years.
Indeed, the old clich/ “business as usual” does not apply here.
The pressure is on, and opportunities that exist for businesses of all sizes and shapes have never been stronger. Even under the shadow of our current housing slowdown, the expanse of new rooftops is impressive.
This column will focus on important business trends. Our business pages will feature new and expanding businesses, new personnel, appointments and promotions.
I’ll take a close look at area-wide business pressures and what that means to business owners and consumers alike. I look forward to hearing from our loyal readers and area businesses.
Indeed, you will have a great impact on this column, and an even greater impact on the future economic development of the area. I will be happy to answer or research any questions you may have.
So let’s begin.
One question that every business, town and community should ask of themselves is “Who are we now, and what do we want to be when we grow up?” Seems simple enough, but try answering it.
Unless both ends of that economic development string are clearly defined and understood, the chances of reaching the goal — any goal — are miniscule.
Area residents should ask themselves similar pertinent questions.
How would you define the area in which you live? What would you like it to be in the future?
One this is for sure, growth will continue. So, what do you want Green Valley and Sahuarita to look like in the future? What kind of businesses do you think we are missing? As a business owner, what would help you to continue a successful partnership with your community?
Growth can occur whenever businesses take resources and rearrange them in ways that are more valuable to the consumer or the bottom line.
In an article by Susan Ward, a business consultant in British Columbia, she lists the following as the top 10 ways of growing your business:
Penetrate your market;
Ask for referrals;
Innovate your product or service;
Extend your market reach;
Participate in trade shows;
Conquer a niche market;
Contain your costs;
Diversify your products or services;
Franchising.
The Chamber of Commerce has a Business EXPO coming in early February and is an excellent opportunity to showcase your business to the community. It is also an excellent opportunity for residents to visit with and learn about the area businesses and the people who run them. It is Feb. 5 at the West Center in Green Valley.
There is very little time remaining for businesses to sign up; so do it today. The cost is minimal and the exposure is huge!
Mark Bollin is marketing director of the Green Valley News. E-mail questions and comments to mbollin@gvnews.com. Comment on this column online at www.gvnews.com.
Indeed, the old clich/ “business as usual” does not apply here.
The pressure is on, and opportunities that exist for businesses of all sizes and shapes have never been stronger. Even under the shadow of our current housing slowdown, the expanse of new rooftops is impressive.
This column will focus on important business trends. Our business pages will feature new and expanding businesses, new personnel, appointments and promotions.
I’ll take a close look at area-wide business pressures and what that means to business owners and consumers alike. I look forward to hearing from our loyal readers and area businesses.
Indeed, you will have a great impact on this column, and an even greater impact on the future economic development of the area. I will be happy to answer or research any questions you may have.
So let’s begin.
One question that every business, town and community should ask of themselves is “Who are we now, and what do we want to be when we grow up?” Seems simple enough, but try answering it.
Unless both ends of that economic development string are clearly defined and understood, the chances of reaching the goal — any goal — are miniscule.
Area residents should ask themselves similar pertinent questions.
How would you define the area in which you live? What would you like it to be in the future?
One this is for sure, growth will continue. So, what do you want Green Valley and Sahuarita to look like in the future? What kind of businesses do you think we are missing? As a business owner, what would help you to continue a successful partnership with your community?
Growth can occur whenever businesses take resources and rearrange them in ways that are more valuable to the consumer or the bottom line.
In an article by Susan Ward, a business consultant in British Columbia, she lists the following as the top 10 ways of growing your business:
The Chamber of Commerce has a Business EXPO coming in early February and is an excellent opportunity to showcase your business to the community. It is also an excellent opportunity for residents to visit with and learn about the area businesses and the people who run them. It is Feb. 5 at the West Center in Green Valley.
There is very little time remaining for businesses to sign up; so do it today. The cost is minimal and the exposure is huge!
Mark Bollin is marketing director of the Green Valley News. E-mail questions and comments to mbollin@gvnews.com. Comment on this column online at www.gvnews.com.
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