The RTD ran an article in today’s paper, "Virginia rated top state for business". In said article, Chris Thurston, from RightMinds, was quoted as saying that VA should jump on this golden opportunity to capitalize on Forbes’ recent recognition of the Virginia job market and business environment.
He makes an excellent point that not only did we achieve a high award, but that it should be used to catapult the Virginia economy ahead. If we strike quickly with the marketing to let the key players know about our recognition, then we may draw other employers to the area.
Richmond sure needs it, especially if we are going to fill all of these new office spaces and provide consumers for all of the hundreds of new retailers that have opened the past several months.
Chris Thurston, president and chief executive of the RightMinds advertising agency in Richmond, said the recognition from Forbes offers "a humongous window of opportunity. You don’t get many opportunities like this when a credible source praises what you have to offer."
He suggests the state "earmark some money to shout it out nationally, targeted to specific markets that Virginia can benefit from." And strike while the news is still fresh.
"Make sure decision-makers hear about this over and over again. If they do, the message will stick."
I sure hope that some of the state and local government PR decision-makers listen to his wise words.
Richmond, and Virginia in general, is on a good upswing, and this can only help keep us on the right path. If we play it right, it may just make it even better.
(See also: RVA in Top 10 for Job Hunting from 8-11-06)
