Leads

Connecting people is a core competency of an economic developer. Where others see obstacles, the community leader sees a way to connect people with people, and people with programs. The community leader also connects challenges with leaders that can address them.

“Leads” often refer to new opportunities for business or the sales process, which is an appropriate definition, but not a complete one. As you work through the week, think of leads as opportunities to refer a business to a local company. Look for opportunities to connect others to great programs in the community. Introduce three people to others you believe would be good for them to know. These “leads” often take on a life of their own.

And in the sales process itself, “leads” mean very little if not acted upon. Collecting contacts at a conference means little if those contacts are not tracked and touched regularly. What steps are you taking this week to further the introductions and conversations you’ve had recently? Are you sitting on them or making it happen?

Take time each week to generate activity by leading one person to another, while also taking time to follow up with those who have been introduced to you.

-Kenny McDonald

One Columbus Update

• Congratulations to Le Tote, Adept Marketing and Capital.Energy on their investments in Obetz, Grandview Heights and Westerville, respectively. Together, these three companies will create nearly 500 new jobs.
• This week, the One Columbus team is hosting companies evaluating the Columbus Region. We’ll also travel to Chicago for FABTECH 2017.
• Next week, our team will be in Chicago for PLMA’s Private Label Trade Show.
• Economic Development 411 afternoon keynote announced: John Ellis, former Ford Motor Company executive and author of The Zero Dollar Car, will share thought provoking insights into big data impacting our lives and every Columbus Region community. Learn more about ED411.