What’s Your Story? Members Want to Hear It
I've been publications editor at this Association for nearly nine months now. I have much still to learn, but here's what I know so far: Many member companies are a self-effacing sort. Most of you do not seek the spotlight.
It is an admirable quality, but it can pose a problem when it's paired with another common trait among members. You also genuinely want to learn from one another. You tell me the articles you most enjoy reading are the ones written about other members.
So, I'm asking you to shift your thinking. Rather than feeling self-conscious about participating in an article, consider it an opportunity to contribute to a shared knowledge base.
The Association is building its editorial calendar for 2016 and wants to pitch a few story ideas to you. Take a look at these topics and ask yourself if your company has something to share on the issue. Or, feel free to nominate another member.
Exporting: This year, we've talked about Trade Promotion Authority and the Trans-Pacific Partnership. You’ve watched elections in Argentina and events unfolding in Russia and the Ukraine because what happens there influences what happens in your businesses.
We want to hear from members affected by events in the global market and by trade laws for a story in the magazine’s February issue.
Agricultural Clusters: We see stories in the news occasionally about agricultural clusters—states or regions building a critical mass of businesses from different sectors of agriculture.
Are you part of such a cluster or see one emerging near you? We are curious about the concept and hope to talk with members who have seen it from the inside.
Overcoming Adversity: The agriculture industry is enduring hard times. These are not the first. What lessons have you learned from previous downturns in the industry? What have you found effective in sustaining staff morale, finding new revenue streams, or simply riding it out until better days?
Affordable Care Act: A physician will write a column for the next issue of Ag Innovator that takes a long-term look at what the law might mean to members and discusses the pending reporting requirements for ACA. If you have a question about the law, pass it along, and we'll ask it on your behalf. As the article takes shape, it may allow for members to share how the law has affected your rates and coverage. If you have a story to share, please do.
None of the Above: We make room in every issue to feature a member company and highlight its successes. Again, members rarely ask to be noticed, so I encourage you to think about a company that recently did something innovative. You are surrounded by them. (You are one of them.)
I’m always happy to hear your ideas. Contact me at (314) 878-2304 or Kristi@FarmEquip.org.
Kristi Ruggles
Publications Editor
S