In the 7-part series we outlined our views on the progress of attracting and retaining young adults. Below are the 7:
1. The movement is bigger than Roanoke
2. Qualitative stories of people returning
3. Media influence
4. Champions have been established
5. It’s now a political issue
6. Employers are taking notice
7. Students are taking notice
So, what is next? What else do we need to do? Here are some suggestions.
1. Convert lip service to action. There are many people who have warmly embraced the YP movement. The real test will come when leadership positions, power/control are relinquished and true succession planning begins. We still have considerable work to do on this front.
2. A grass-roots communication system to college students alerting jobs and events.We have tried this two different times, but have not found the system that sticks yet. It’s obvious embracing and using Facebook will be at the center of any strategy.
3. Better communication to and with all people engaged in the movement.There are so many who are invovled, but we do not quite have a comprehensive list. Many lists are fragmented and incomplete due to specific interests.
4. More regional and national media pitches. Our story needs to be told to a broader audience through traditional media sources, and back that up, with a stronger online presence.
5. Sustainable assistance for the Un-Serviced Workforce. Again these are the talented people who are leaving the area primarily because neither the private nor public sector is investing in them staying. jobzcafe could be that solution, especially with a unique program called talking tuezdays.
6. Expand efforts into K12. There is a grassroots effort that is beginning to materialize to have local high school students get more involved in the process. Additionally, there are a number of other planned efforts being put in place to address graduation rates and better prepare graduates for the local workforce.
7. Keep the pressure on. The momentum must continue. All of these efforts must grow exponentially. We cannot rest on our laurels and therefore, must continue with the same energy level we have seen over the past couple years.
Again, this is just one perspective, and is certainly open for additional thoughts, ideas and plans. If you have an insight or idea, then please share.
