Inspiration, collaboration, and useful information on getting your message across.
On Thursday evening, Aurora Downtown Project hosted a Marketing Seminar at Aurora City Hall. Refreshments, prepared by Kristy’s Kitchen, were provided thanks to First Independent Bank.
Shannon Walker shared how the Aurora Chamber of Commerce can be an excellent way to network in the community; they offer referrals, social media posts, ribbon cutting and opportunities for sponsorship. They organize the Business Expo which is this coming Saturday and offer a free monthly networking event, Coffee and Community. She also shared some print and direct mail opportunities offered by Journey Marketing Solutions of Monett.
Dewayne Gandy, President of Talon Media, offered an entertaining overview of marketing strategies including the opportunities available to reach many customers through the radio station. Talon Media’s reach also includes WebTV and printed materials. He shared how advertising is a plank on the marketing bridge that starts with your reputation and must end with a positive interaction with your customer.
Rhonda Sexton, who, along with her husband Jimmy, runs The Aurora Advertiser and The Neosho Daily News, shared her experience building several businesses, including two local newspapers. Rhonda is passionate about the local community and shared how the newspaper is a great way to help get your message across, even outside of town. There are opportunities to be featured or advertise with the printed paper and the online version. The newspaper is also active on social media, sharing posts and helping promote events.
Hannah Rader, President of The Aurora Downtown Project, shared the opportunities for sponsorship that help support the organization. The benefits can include social media shout outs, your logo on the website, signage at the Farmer’s Market and Community Christmas, and hole sponsorship at the annual golf tournament.
Paul Haine shared some of the work his Economic Vitality Committee has been doing to help promote the downtown district. There will soon be a billboard that will help bring traffic to the area, and there will be opportunities to contribute promotional materials to a shopping bag give away at the Farmer’s Market. He discussed storytelling as a marketing tool that can be effective for small businesses. He is working on some stories that will be shared on social media to help promote downtown businesses. Paul thanked everyone for their participation and announced the next seminar which will be a lunch and learn on May 8th at the new Aurora Recreation Center.