The economy is hurting just about everyone. Unless you had the foresight about 9 months ago to move all of your holdings out of stocks, bonds, and real estate and into some obscure (stable) currency, you’ve taken a beating. Companies are no different.
In Loudoun County, Virginia, some companies have felt the sting more than others. One example is the American Red Cross. In the wealthiest county in America (according to several publications), the Red Cross, arguably the most recognizeable resource for First Aid and CPR training anywhere, has pulled out. That is, their education department has pulled out. They are referring all of their course inquiries to Fairfax, DC and Winchester.
Are you serious?
I contacted the Red Cross, to ask how I could get certified and referred on their site to offer courses locally. They indicated that they were content to continue to use their existing referral network. On their website, it refers one to the National Capital Area chapter….in DC. All courses are offered….in DC. Actually, some are in Prince Georges County, Maryland. They just weren’t interested in certifying another instructor, so that they continue to offer Red Cross classes locally, through their chapter.
Really.
Alright, so now, much of my hard work is having benefits for both myself and my fellow citizens. I’m getting a few more phone calls, and I, in turn, am able to coordinate classes locally, through a variety of organizations that ARE interested in letting me offer instruction in Loudoun County, Virginia. Carfeul marketing strategies have my company pop on top on most web searches, and generate referrals through our local chambers of commerce.
Why is this my blog topic? Well, at this point, if you have stumbled across the blog, it’s because you web-searched for it or for me. My moral, today, is to let you know that there is always a way. Whether it is learning CPR, finding a personal trainer, or seeking out a nanny, you can find exactly what you want, when you want it, no matter what the economy is doing. It just takes a little bit more time to find it. It’s out there, though.
