How do you build appreciation for your local community? I’ve been doing some travel recently for business and I’ve come to a few realizations. First, with today’s technology, we are truly a global business community. Like you I’ve heard that said many times, but until you experience it first hand, it just sounds a marketing campaign. I’ve come face to face with it recently and now I’m a believer.
Even though my company is based in Hopkins, I work with companies around the country. Through technology I am able to make connections, provide services and maintain a level of customer service from Hopkins. Sometimes, the best customer service is face to face, so I do travel to client locations on occasion. While sitting in the airport or my hotel room, I’m connected to my email and conducting business. I even ran a board meeting of a foundation in the Twin Cities even though I was sitting in my hotel room in Salt Lake City. It was an eye-opening experience. As I wait in the airport, I’m surrounded by a number of business people working on their computers, phones, and blackberrys to coordinate their operations.
What does this have to do with appreciation? Each time I travel, I return to Hopkins with a renewed appreciation of our community. One tends to take what is offered in town for granted and only realize the unique aspects of our City when you spend some time in other communities. I’m sure that is true for wherever you call home, but I believe the way we do business in Hopkins building personal relationships is the strongest way to ensure we all have success in all our endeavors.
I encourage you after exploring what the world has to offer, return to Hopkins and renew your appreciation for our community — a great place to work, live and play. Appreciate business growth with new companies to our area, Cargill and LA Fitness. Appreciate the numerous opportunies for enjoying a play, dance recital, movie or socializing. Appreciate the family offerings presented through our numerous schools and early childhood programs. Appreciate doing business in a community where people know your name.
