Inspiration by Guest Blogger, Lisa Gordon

A little inspiration goes a long way…I’m not going to lie, heading up the newest branch is not an easy feat. It’s a lot of meetings, a lot of introductions, a lot of pitching, a lot of hard work and determination to garner new business, build relationships with local media and introduce HJMT and myself to competitors, key players and Rochester business leaders. At the end of the week, I’m pretty exhausted and certainly talked out!

Today, the economy reared its ugly head again and a few potential clients, who we thought would be retaining our services within the first month of the new year, are proceeding with extra caution and holding back on taking the PR/marketing plunge until springtime. Now, don’t get me wrong, I completely understand where they’re coming from and respect them for trying to cushion and protect their businesses. But, what they don’t understand is that it’s more important to marketing and publicize your business now in a bad economy. We at HJMT always tell potential clients that public relations is a long-term investment, one that needs to start at the right moment for all parties involved.

After hearing the news although not entirely negative, I needed something to boost my spirits so, I attended the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Rochester Chapter’s luncheon. The guest speaker who was there, talked about how she started her own business in 1987 with $22.11 in her bank account. Now, she boasts that her company is a $130 million company with 146 clients, 75 employees and named the #1 Best Small Company to Work for in America. Talk about success!

What really made me think, “Wow!” was that two out of the first three clients she worked with are still with her firm today. It makes me think of HJMT’s future in Rochester and I hope 20 years from now, we will be able to say the same thing about our Rochester clients. And so, as I was walking back to my car to head back to the office, one thought came to mind…If this woman can make it work with a mere $22.11 in her bank account, Hilary and I can definitely persevere in this down economy and more importantly make a name for ourselves in the greater Rochester region. So for now, I’ll remember to be patient and to keep plugging. Great things are around the corner. See, a little inspiration does go a long way!

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Lisa Gordon is a Supervisor and project manager at HJMT COMMUNICATIONS, LLC. She publicizes the clients and creates interesting marketing ideas for the clients. She is currently heading up the Rochester division of the firm.