Last Friday, the Stafford Chamber of Commerce met to discuss their strategy. It is important for any organization, old or new, to re-visit its strategy, goals and plans many times throughout its existence. Times change, new technology enters the market, key volunteers move on, and key supporters may leave, so with these changes, must come changes in how your organization is ran. It may be time for little upkeep! 

The meeting on Friday was very productive and thought-provoking. The Chamber was able to talk about branding, marketing,  various ideas that each members have, and things that each member feels are important for the Chamber to focus on including what they think success looks like. 

Strategic planning is imperative. Your mission, your vision, your goals, your marketing plan, well...they all may need to change! There may be new "customers" to serve. There may be better, less expensive ways to market your business, such as through social media. You may have a different vision for your organization than you had 10 years ago. Change can be good and change is inevitable. Each and everyone of us must be wiling to adapt to change if we want our organizations and companies to continue to thrive and succeed. Don't fear change. Embrace it.

If you have decided that it is time for a change and wondering where to start, you can always reach out to Stafford County Economic Development. We are here for you! But, a good start to change, is a self-assessment of your current position, a look at what you would like to see for a future, and a goal-driven statement of how you are going to get there.