What makes you stop and shop
when you travel? You probably don’t stop in places that, at first glance, seem to
have little to offer. If no one acts like they care, or even totally ignores you, do you
want to stay and spend money? I don’t. I go on to another place. I’m even mad at
those who don’t cater to me and my family. Just who do they think they are?
Small towns should realize that people crave being taken care of and
noticed, even by merchants selling things. Hey, especially by merchants selling things! It
satisfies and gratifies people. If they can’t stop and let their kids play, or walk
the dog conveniently, or buy food or get information, they get pretty owly. Isn’t my
money good enough? What kind of honyocker would put up this trashy place and expect me to
bring my family in and spend money?
Give travelers what they want and travelers will get that chip off
their shoulders and spend money. They want to spend money. They crave it! That is why they
have taken this long trip and put up with each other in a cramped car all day.
Small towns have to take the initiative if they are to grow smartly.
They need to show travelers that they are concerned about their needs just as a business
should be concerned about the needs of their customers. Once you start learning and
meeting the needs of travelers on a more consistent basis, you will appear more friendly
to them and you can meet their needs even more. An upward spiral will ensue.
Even towns that don’t want to grow, and want everything to stay
the same, should consider this approach of meeting other people’s needs. First of
all, travelers are coming through anyway. Why let anyone have a negative image of your
town? It’s a direct reflection on you and your family. Also, things change quickly.
Why not have more money to save your town from the development you don’t want? Think
ahead. Instead of being led by outside developers, take charge of your future.
Let’s discuss the ways small towns can accomplish their goals.
I think we can begin at the beginning and meet the needs of travelers. This will give you
the foundation to build a stronger economy through more diverse and better businesses for
you and your children. You can focus on a way to build a long-term legacy for your town
instead of a short term way to make a buck.
