Stocker energizes Business Bash audience
Austin radio host and keynote speaker Kelly Stocker pumped up the enthusiasm and energy of local entrepreneurs during the Bastrop Business Bash this month at the Bastrop Convention Center.
A marketing consultant and host at Austin’s KGSR, Stocker urged businesses to be “involved” with their communities and “Instagramable” by sharing impromptu photos of their business activities.
During her talk, Stocker recommended that businesses “give back” to their local communities by partnering with schools, doing a monthly charity event and creating some imaginative interaction with customers by “having customers vote on the charity of the month.” Stocker also advised audience members to go online at least an hour a day to help promote their businesses and interact with the community. She termed it “a fantastic way to find a new audience.”
Stocker further challenged audience members by posing the questions: “What do you want your business to look like in 10 years? Move your business toward that,” and: “What are your hopes for Bastrop’s identity in 25 years?”
Bonnie Coffey, a Main Street Program volunteer, said the Business Bash was a great opportunity for local entrepreneurs “to meet each other and have a good time.”
“I buy locally every chance I get and choose to do business with people I know and can say hi to — that’s what this all about,” Coffey said.
Bastrop Economic Development Corp. Assistant Director Angela Ryan said, “The Business Bash gives people a chance to network and maybe meet some new people.” She said Stocker had been a “great inspirational speaker.”
Bastrop Chamber of Commerce President Becki Womble said, “As community partners, we (the BEDC, chamber and Main Street Program) recognized the momentum created on social media as a Top 5 finalist for the Small Business Revolution. We wanted to ‘ride the wave’ no matter what the outcome. We found ‘a voice’ on social media, and we want that momentum to continue.” Stocker ended her speech with sage advice: “To be successful, you have to have your heart in your business, and your business in your heart.”