Not So Boring 3rd Quarter

Leslie Jasper
Group Sales Manger
Des Moines Performing Arts

It’s IOWA STATE FAIR time! 

And, although “Nothing Compares”… really, nothing does… I am here to remind us of all the great happenings as we wrap-up the remaining summer months, in addition our beloved Iowa State Fair.  Just in case someone wants to load their August calendar with something other than the Butter Cow or Porkchop-On-A-Stick!

If the Iowa State Fair really DOES occupy most of your August days/nights, be sure to check out these awesome places and events that make our community and state not so boring after the fair, too! 

“Not So Boring” Happenings

(Find past happenings here and here)

I-Cubs

“Dog Day” August 12, bring your dog to the park for a game and enjoy dollar hot dogs!

www.MILB.com/index.jsp?sid=t451

Fridays at the Fountain

Free live music Friday nights at the West Glen Center in West Des Moines.  Family friendly.

August 9 and August 23

www.WestGlenTownCenter.com

Nightfall on the River

Nitefall on the River, presented by Veridian Credit Union, is an annual summer music series at the picturesque Simon Estes Amphitheater.  All Ages Shows, tickets $22-$31.

Final two shows of the summer!

Owl City, August 9 and Hanson, August 28

www.NightfallDSM.com

Des Moines Social Club

Fireball is back in a big way. It’s the ball of all balls. This year they’ve got sizzling sets by The Envy Corps and The Olympics, pair that with a fire-tastic performance by Chicago’s Pyrotechniq — all happening at the beautiful Simon Estes Amphitheater.

August 15, 7:30p.  Advance tickets $15 or $25 at the door.

www.DesMoinesSocialClub.org

Science Center of Iowa

Don’t miss the Science Center of Iowa’s 15th Annual Fundraising Event & Auction, one of the most talked about celebrations in Des Moines! With amazing live and silent auctions, delectable cuisine and cocktails and live music, the event is an exciting celebration of SCI and our commitment to informal learning.

August 23, 6p.

www.SCIowa.org

“Dancing on the Lake”

It’s the last one of the season!  Every Thursday night, come out and learn to dance social dances like salsa, swing, line dancing or contra dancing. Lessons start on the Overlook Terrace at 7:30 and the dancing begins at 8:00.Each week (June – August 22 ) will feature a different kind of dancing and music.

www.DMGov.org

Iowa Wineries

Did you know Iowa has over 70 wineries to explore?  During the remaining warm months, plan a road trip to visit these beautiful destinations and sample their delicious wines!

For a complete list of Iowa wineries:

www.CatchWine.com/wineries/iowa/

www.TravelIowa.com/attractions/wineries

Principal Riverwalk

Check out one of downtown’s hottest attractions, the newly finished riverwalk, starting at Walnut and Court Street in Des Moines.  Featuring a new “rest stop” that offers drinks, food, and a gorgeous view, The Riverwalk Hub Spot.

Ewing Park STAR Party

Bring your picnic blanket and come to Ewing Park to view the Perseid meteor shower! SCI and Des Moines Astronomical Society (DMAS) will have telescopes set up for you to experience this annual cosmic event. The action in the sky doesn’t get started until later, but the fun starts at 6:00 pm with activities in the park. August 10

www.DMGov.org

Parks and Recreation

There are only a few weeks left to take advantage of the pools and outdoor water fun!  Most pools close for the season September 2.

Des Moines Parks and Recreation

Gray’s Lake Bike Rental and water sports

www.DMGov.org

Big Creek Marina

www.BigCreekMarina.com   

Windsor Heights Parks and Recreation

www.WindsorHeights.org/index.htm

Waukee Parks and Recreation

www.Waukee.org/parksandrecreationdepartment.html

Polk County Conservation

www.PolkCountyIowa.gov/conservation

Knoxville Raceway

The biggest sprint car race in the world with the top drivers in the sport.  Join us for Knoxville Nationals, A four-day racing extravaganza that includes music, food, camping, expo and more that ends each night with some of the most exciting racing you can ever experience.

August 7 – 10

www.KnoxvilleRaceway.com/Event/53rd-Annual-Knoxville-Nationals

Blank Park Zoo

Last month of Zoo Brew!  Every Wednesday in August, starting at 5:30p.

www.BlankParkZoo.com

New View Wine Tasting at Glen Oaks

It is time again for New View to host an After Hours event this week on Thursday, July 11, 2013 at Glen Oaks Country Club.  We are pleased to have Ashley Damos, a Certified Wine Specialist and Assistant Wine & Spirits Manager from the Mills Civic Hy-Vee store lead us in wine sampling.  As a Certified Wine Specialist, Ashley brings a wealth of knowledge about different types of wine, wine regions, food and wine pairings, and more!

Ashley has chosen six types of wines for us to sample: Riesling, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Red Blend, and Cabernet Sauvignon.  The selected wines are from California, Oregon, Washington, and Argentina!  Many of the wines we will be sampling have rich histories or Iowa ties.  Ashley will provide sampling sheets for all attendees to record information such as the Vineyard name, grape varietal, region, year, taste profile, and price at the Mills Civic Hy-Vee Wine & Spirits store.  Participants can present the sampling sheet to the Mills Civic Hy-Vee Wine & Spirits store to receive a 10% discount on all wine purchases from Thursday night after the event through Sunday, July 14, 2013!

The event will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m. and include two flights: white and red.  The white flight will occur at approximately 5:30 p.m. or soon after a sizable crowd has arrived, while the red flight will occur at approximately 6:15 p.m.  There will be no charge to participants for sampling while supplies last.  During the sampling, Ashley will discuss each wine, including its Vineyard, history, taste profile, and more!  In addition, Ashley will be available throughout the entire event to answer all of our questions about wine. 

Thank you, Ashley, for your help with this event, and we look forward to seeing everyone on Thursday, July 11, 2013 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Glen Oaks Country Club.  

What Five Years has Taught Me

Kathleen Riessen
Partner - Measured Intentions

How do you a grow a business in a bad economy? How should I find clients? What can I offer my clients? Why would I quit a perfectly good job to go out on my own? How can I juggle being a mom and a business owner?

These are just a few of the questions I asked myself five years ago as I began Measured Intentions. This June, we celebrated our fifth year in business. Read on to see the top five things I learned that could help you succeed in your career as a professional, whether or not you are a business owner.

       1.  Surround yourself with people smarter than you. Within the first few months of the business, I added a business partner that had a different skill set than mine. We did this again a year later. These partners helped define the business and carry it forward. In my case, these partners were equity stakeholders; however, they don’t need to be. They could be vendors that act as partners or they could be mentors or advisors for you.

       2.  Network. Be a well networked person. Don’t just attend events – get involved. I spent the first few years of the business attending all sorts of events both in and out of my industry. Now, I don’t have as much time so I am selective on what I attend; however, I still understand the power of networking and make time each week to maintain relationships and build new ones. Sometimes people are hesitant to talk to me at a function since I am a business owner. I was in your shoes not long ago so don’t be shy. I wouldn’t be at a function if I didn’t want to meet you.

       3.  Give more than you receive. Figure out how you can help others. They will work extra hard to help you. Often times in our business we connect people that can be mutually beneficial to each other. Most of the time it doesn’t result in any direct benefit for us but that is okay. It always pays off in some way over the long term and it makes us feel good.

       4.  Know Your Value. You must determine that you and what you offer are valuable before you can convince someone to buy from you. This takes a lot of self confidence and can easily be rocked. Trust me, it will be rocked, which leads me to my next point.

       5.  Keep going. There are days when you feel like throwing in the hat. When you wonder why you are doing this. When you wonder if you can pay the bills. Those are the days you put one foot in front of the other and keep going.

When I look back at the last five years, I see the steep learning curve and all that we have accomplished. I am sure that in the years to come, I will look back and say the same thing. If I remember the five points above, then I know I will continue to be successful.

Kathleen Riessen is a Partner at Measured Intentions, a marketing consulting firm in Urbandale, Iowa.  

Making a Lasting Difference

Steve Chapman
President & CEO
Ruan Transportation Management Systems

Several months ago, New View’s Danny Beyer, whom I had never met at the time, requested a meeting with me to discuss my career and how individuals can make a difference in their communities. While flattered, I was not sure why he contacted me instead of other community leaders. However, we met over coffee and talked about the importance of volunteering, getting involved and giving back within our community. We had a great conversation, and it caused me to think back about myself at his age and my desire—just like his—to make a difference.

Last week, Danny sent me an e-mail asking if I would be willing to write New View’s guest blog for June. He said it would be great if I would write about personal mentors who I have been fortunate to work with in my career. As I think about the many individuals who both intentionally and unintentionally mentored me throughout my career, I realize they made a lasting difference in my life. And I am now at a point in my life when offering my time and guidance to younger, determined generations is so very important. I hope to impact them the way my mentors impacted me.

I have been very fortunate to have had a successful and rewarding career. That process began with the best and most important mentors in my life—my parents. My parents taught me that I truly can do anything as long as I am willing to put in the time and effort required to succeed.  When I needed help or did something wrong, they were always there to pick me up, allow me to learn from my mistakes and get on with my life. They taught me values that will always guide my life and my decisions. I was taught that there is right and there is wrong—nothing in between. As a result, decisions came easy for me because I never looked beyond what was the right thing to do. My parents taught me the importance of caring for others and always putting their needs above my own. 

After completing my studies at Drake University and entering the workforce, I was determined to succeed in business. But I also wanted to succeed in being an engaged citizen within my community. So with every opportunity I was given, I worked extremely hard to make a difference, and the impact of my efforts on others was always in forefront of my thought process. I was taught that success is shared, and it always felt better when that success had a positive impact on others. As my responsibilities expanded, I looked for ways to get involved and give back to this community in which I was so fortunate to live. That is where my second group of mentors came in.  

One thing I learned quickly was that the most involved and successful business leaders in our community welcomed individuals like me to the table as long as we were willing to work. I first became involved in what was then the Greater Des Moines Chamber of Commerce by volunteering on various committees focused on economic development. It gave me the opportunity to meet and work with successful, philanthropic individuals like John Fitzgibbon, Bill Knapp, Marvin Pomerantz, Dave Miller, Connie Wimer, David Hurd and many others. Each of these individuals—whether they knew it or not—guided, coached and mentored me in so many ways. They taught me so much, but most importantly, they taught me the importance of giving back. At the time, they made it clear that they did not expect my financial contributions to the community to be the size of theirs but, as my career grew, so should the size of my contributions. They were always willing to offer their time to help me better understand the needs of our community and how to address them. I feel very fortunate to have become close friends with many of the leaders who truly define this community.    

In fact, I was asked to speak at the funeral of a friend and mentor during their last days of life. This individual was such a strong personality and leader that once I hesitantly agreed, they proceeded to tell me what they wanted me to say at their funeral. I was directed to not speak about them, but rather about this great community and the work that still needs to be done. It was a demonstration of leadership that never fades because it is instilled in others.  

The leaders and mentors I have been so fortunate to know taught me the importance of working together within our community to overcome challenges, create opportunities and make it an even better place to live, work and raise a family. It’s people who truly make a difference through their willingness to stand up at the right time for the right cause—and Des Moines has been blessed with many leaders who selflessly donate their time and financial resources to the community. 

Today, I still consider myself that young businessperson looking up with respect to the leaders who have mentored me and made a lasting difference in my life. Now, I’m honored to have the opportunities to speak to organizations like the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute and United Way’s Education Leadership Initiative, as well as work with young people, like Danny, who want to get involved in their community. I was taught well by my many mentors, and I will do everything I can to continue to teach the importance of getting involved, giving of time and resources and always acting for the right reasons.

The 4th Annual Barley PAR-TEE

The Who, What, Where, When and Why of this

Unique Fundraising Opportunity

Let me start by expressing my sincere gratitude to the Board of New View for helping us to make this event - the 4th Annual Barley PAR-TEE on August 3rd - as known as possible to the community.  My name is Justin Bogers - Marketing Manager of Link Associates.  Link serves over 1,200 community members with intellectual disabilities, and their families, to help provide our consumers with "opportunities to achieve their personal goals" and live the best lives possible.  We provide a full spectrum of services for our consumers to help them reach their goals - case management, vocational, leisure, residential, transportation, anything they would need to help them live at their best.  However, we cannot complete this mission without the support of our community.  Our fundraiser is aimed at helping us achieve this mission, while providing the contributors a fun, exciting, unique way to celebrate.  What is the Barley PAR-TEE?  In short:

The Barley PAR-TEE is a distinctive event combining the sampling of a large variety of beers from local micro breweries with an amusing twist on golf involving golf clubs and tennis balls.  Golfers will be allowed two clubs of their choice with “putters” being provided on each “green”.  This unique game of golf will be played on the pasturelands at Hawkeye Antique Acres (exit 117, I-80).  To compliment the day of beer tasting and this innovative golf experience, the Iowa Barbeque Society will be serving a tantalizing BBQ meal with live entertainment provided by local area bands.

When I give this description, the statement I typically hear is "Golf?  Well, I'm no good at golf."  Let me assure you - there are no Tiger's, Phil's, or Zach's at the pasture golf - not your regular run-of-the-mill golfing adventure.  Take a little bit of farm game, mix in tennis balls, a few golf clubs, themed holes, fairways, and unique putting situations, and you have pasture golf.  Last year's theme was Schools of Iowa.  Picture this: Step up to your tee box at the U of I hole and you are challenged by a board with red Solo cups set up for a game of beer pong.  In order to advance your ball to a certain spot, you must put your ball into one of the cups - pong-style.  At another hole (AIB), you get to the green and see a... file cabinet turned sideways with an open drawer?  How will you hit the ball in?  Well, by using a giant number two pencil, of course!  Slingshots, singing competitions, javelin throws, hog calls, tire irons, wood ponies, and many other creative designs have kept the "golfers" engaged and having a great time - without having to be avid golfers.  We are actively seeking creative four-somes for this year's theme - Reality TV!  Just think of it... Survivor, Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader, Cupcake Wars... Honey Boo Boo.  Prizes will be given for your creativity - like best team spirit and other awards!

 How about the beer?  Samples will be ready for your taste buds on August 3rd at 2pm from Confluence, Exile, 515, Twisted Vine, and many other local, incredible brewers - ready to show the great options this area has to offer.  Our goal is to spotlight these talented brewers because they are choosing to be a part of our event.  Please, if you happen to be out visiting one of these fine establishments, thank them for being a part of the Barley PAR-TEE on August 3rd, and let them know that you will be there to support them and Link's mission.  Not a drinker, but still want to be involved in the event?  Are you going to be the DD?  We have a deal for you and will have you covered as well!

What if you get hungry during the event? Is there food?  We've got you covered.  We will have a tantalizing BBQ pulled pork meal, courtesy of the Iowa Barbeque Society, with baked beans, chips and a drink.

A great addition to the change in venue (formerly at Living History Farms), and increase in time (now 2pm-9pm), is that we will have multiple bands performing throughout the event.  We are currently working on some staples of the local scene, and are proud to share our first confirmation of Randy Burk and the Prisoners!  They will be our second band on stage that night.  As soon as we have a chance to confirm with the two other bands, I will let everyone know.  Keep an eye on the Facebook pages for additional, up-to-the-minute information regarding the BPT.  BPT and RPB - absolutely!

Help create a better life for members of our community by contributing in some way during the Barley PAR-TEE fundraiser.  We are still actively seeking business sponsors (from $250 up), four-somes, individual golfers, donations, and ala-carte style participants.  All proceeds go to the Link Associates Foundation to help us in our mission.  I look forward to seeing you on August 3rd, starting at 2pm, at Hawkeye Antique Acres, for the 4th Annual Barley PAR-TEE!  For more information, go to barleypartee.com, check out our Facebook event page and fan page, and find our YouTube video - with a sweet voice-over.

National Running Day

Chris Burch
Director of Racing and Events
IMT Des Moines Marathon

Did you know that our nation recently celebrated National Running Day? Running in the United States is becoming more and more popular and my guess is that you are noticing it. From what was considered a man's sport some 40 years ago, running is attracting more than just the high school cross country or track standout these days. Woman are buying more running shoes and signing up for more races than men these days. Many of them are taking the family on vacation and spending hundreds of dollars at expos. Races today are more like events that provide destination experiences and platforms for fundraising and awareness than who can cross the finish line first competitions.

Running is following such a popular trend that even local events such as Dam to Dam, which has been around for more than 30 years, sells out in a number of days and the Living History Farms Cross Country Race in hours. Want to be a part of the Farms race? Don’t leave your computer when online registration opens. First time national events saw huge numbers of participants in Des Moines last year including more than 20, 000 in the Color Run and 12,000 in the Glow Run alone. Let alone mud and obstacles.

What may have been described as a cult sport some twenty years ago, running is now as main stream as it gets. Name a magazine advertisement or television commercial that focused on running. You probably can. Five years ago. No way. So what is causing the surge in popularity? For starters the sport is accessible at a time when many things in the daily grind are becoming less and less accessible. There is minimal equipment to buy. There aren't any membership requirements, rental fees or contracts to sign. And many runners start and finish their run from the front door. No getting stuck in traffic just trying o get to your workout.

Running provides opportunities to exercise control in a number of different ways. It provides an opportunity for goals and objectives to be met and set; a time for personal reflection, imagination, and the chance to sort out the day’s events. Running provides for the theater of competition. Personal improvement, self satisfaction, and enjoyment in a sport that offers many personal returns only add to the physical and well being benefits of regular exercise.

Perhaps it is the collective energy and spirit of those ideals that is making running so popular. More and more people are discovering the sport and celebrating it with others at running events from the church on the corner 5K to ultramarathons and 100 mile races. Des Moines was recently named the Outstanding Runner Friendly Community of the Year in 2012. If you seem to notice more people out running over the lunch hour or through the neighborhood on your commute home for work, perhaps instead of asking yourself what you think those people are thinking, you should ask yourself why aren’t you thinking like them.

Don't Forget to Press Flesh

John R. Stokka
CEO DomiKnow, Inc.

Welcome to the new digital age. We can share a picture with the world in seconds with Instagram or Pinterest. The era where we can share every thought, desire, action in seconds through Facebook and Twitter. Yes indeed, we can post, email, tweet, pin, check-in, update, follow, like, and share with relative ease and efficiency, but should we?

I recently "caught" two people in my office going endlessly bantering back and forth with each other about something fairly simple over internal email. Instead of getting up and walking across the room to have a 2 minute conversation, they had exchanged several emails over a couple days about the topic. Not only is it inefficient, it is an environment that can breed contempt, misunderstanding, and a myriad of other issues in an organization that is growing at the pace as quickly as ours.

There is no denying that social media is here to stay. It has changed the way we communicate and the way we do business. It's an extremely effective medium for certain types of messaging. But don't forget to press flesh. That's right, the good old-fashioned face-to-face meeting intro with a handshake. There is no substitute for looking someone in the eye and having a conversation.
The digital world is a wonderful efficient method of communication that should augment, not replace every other activity that we've developed and evolved over thousands of years of human existence.

The best thing about all of this digital communication is how much of the norm it has become. And in nearly every rule, there lies the value of the exception. If you are willing to make the phone call, if you are willing to go and have the one-on-one conversation, if you are willing to write a personal letter and drop it in the mail... Then guess what? As much as social media and digital communication have become the norm, you will stand out in a crowd of tweeters and posters as a true communicator. Those who understand this will have a leg up on everyone else in whatever they endeavor to do.

Website - http://www.domiknow.com

Facebook - http://facebook.com/domiknow

Twitter - @domiknow

LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/company/domiknow

Leading the Way: You may need to adjust your leadership style

Alex Taylor
Associate Director
University of Iowa
Tippie School of Management

I recently enjoyed a couple of great reads about leadership functions and styles that served as a catalyst for some introspection: What are the functions of a leader and how do they perform them?
In his book, “A Force for Change: How Leadership Differs from Management,” John Kotter lists three primary functions of a leader:

1 Strategy — A leader establishes direction by paying attention to the market — industry, customers and employees — then develops, plans and implements the mission, vision and strategies for the long term success of the organization.
2 Communications — A leader aligns people and resources by sharing and communicating the organizational plans and strategies so that employees, customers and partners understand, embrace and commit to these goals.
3 People management — A leader motivates and inspires by appealing to and tapping into emotional and rational values and needs of employees, customers and others to work toward shared goals and collaborative results.

So if these are the leadership functions, what are the styles?
John Hendry, author of “Between Enterprise and Ethics: Business and Management in a Bi-Moral Society,” identifies four leadership styles — authoritative, participative, empowering and servant — as they might pertain to Kotter’s functions of a leader.

Authoritative leaders cut through or eliminates red tape, process and politics to make definitive decisions. Their conviction and confidence can inspire others to follow and/or do as their told.

Authoritarian leaders sometimes convey a “my way or the highway mentality”, which can backfire when employees don’t believe their input matters or their voices are heard.

Participative leaders enable others to provide input, but remain the final decision-makers. By encouraging participation, these leaders gain good insight and ideas that enable them to validate and/or adjust their decisions accordingly.

This style can help build consensus to guide and align organizations. However, if input of others never gets incorporated, a participative leader risks losing the loyalty and support of employees whose ideas perceptively fall on deaf ears.

Empowering leaders facilitate and guide others to make decisions as talented subject matter experts. These leaders must check their egos at the door, trust the talents and experience of subordinates, accept some uncertainty, and be able to recognize and acknowledge the success of others.

To be effective, an empowering leader must set clear limits of authority, establish shared and measurable goals, and be able to restrain empowered employees from running amok.

With planning and management, an empowered environment can be very innovative and entrepreneurial. But left unchecked, it can spiral out of control and the inmates can take over the prison.

The servant leader often can be found in smaller organizations and not-for-profits, working side by side with others to provide direction.

When they lead by example, these leaders demonstrate they are not above doing the work expected of others. This style can garner the respect of others and can be inspirational.

However, there are some people who prefer authoritarian leadership and a servant leader might appear weak and/or ineffective.

Just as we periodically measure and adjust our organizational focus to accommodate changing economic, financial and political environments, I believe it’s equally important to measure and adjust our leadership styles to stay relevant and effective.

So, what functions do you lead, and how do you do it?

West Des Moines Leadership Academy

Amy Seidelman
Vice-Chair, West Des Moines
Leadership Academy

I’ll start this post with a warning:

Readers, beware – my enthusiasm for the West Des Moines Leadership Academy might just jump off the page at you.

As a graduate of the inaugural 2009 class of the Academy and its current Vice-Chair, I am pleased to introduce our group to anyone who hasn’t had the opportunity to participate in the academy, hasn’t attended one of the many events that evolved from our Academy class projects, or doesn’t know someone who comes to work the 4^th Friday of the month with a renewed sense of purpose in life and work (due to their attendance at class the day before, of course).

There are many great leadership organizations in the state and in cities around West Des Moines. As an alumni-driven group, the Board and Committees of the West Des Moines Leadership Academy strive to make our approach to improving leadership unique.

We touch on topics everyone can benefit from like team building, coaching, conflict management, and situational leadership, but we also focus on supporting individuals on their quest toward personal and professional development.  This year, that included a strategic approach to goal setting, tapping into creativity, and generating the “escape velocity” we need to make positive change in our lives.

We spend about a third of our time exposing the Academy class members to real community issues through experiential learning, simulations, and guest panelists. One of the most influential learning opportunities is the class project, which in the past has varied from focused youth-oriented mentoring work to more large-scale community events! If you’ve attended events like Putt Your Best Food Forward, the BoosterPak Bash, the Hy-Vee Stash Mob, or the 2012 Morsel Combat, you’ve attended a Leadership Academy sponsored or run event.

Taught by local leaders, this program was created to build leaders in the West Des Moines area and our surrounding communities. The program’s balance of leadership training, community experiences, and networking opportunities makes it one of a kind.

I’ve saved the best part for last – we are currently accepting applications for our 2013 -2014 class, which starts in September 2013 and ends with graduation in June 2014. We generally meet on the 4^th Thursday of the month with the exception of some dates we move for holidays, orientation, and graduation.

What we look for in ideal WDMLA candidates:

·         a commitment and motivation to serve West Des Moines;

·         leadership in employment and/or volunteer organizations that translates to influence on important issues; and

·         the ability to honor the time commitment required by the program.

Please take a moment to check out our website. Scan the Alumni and Current Class pages for anyone you might know and can ask about the class. Look at next year’s class dates to see if they’ll work for you. Most importantly, visit the online application and review what you’ll need in order to submit yours soon.

Whether you ask your employer to sponsor this great learning experience or decide to “put yourself through” the WDMLA, you’ll find great value in the leadership lessons and connection to our community you’ll develop. If you are considering asking your employer to sponsor you, you can share these employer testimonials with them as well.

As a potential applicant, you’re on the verge of some serious networking and the start of some amazing friendships. I, for one, can’t wait to meet you!

Giants Among Us

Tom Cox
Vice-President of Digital Content
Meredith Corporation

Central Iowa is in a very sweet spot in the U.S. economy.  In addition to being ground zero for agricultural related industry and commodity production, our region is fortunate to be home to the corporate headquarters of the some very large publicly traded insurance, media and financial services companies, or to at least host their major operational centers.  Their campuses of gleaming buildings and manicured lawns, art installations and inspired architecture are sprinkled around downtown and increasingly around the western suburbs.

The thought of contemplating business relationships with these corporate giants is likely very appealing for many of the locally owned businesses that comprise the rolls of the West Des Moines Chamber.  It is however, important for owners and employees of local firms to remember one thing about their friends, neighbors and colleagues who work for these big firms; while these fine folks live in central Iowa and have homes and offices here, and send their kids to school here...they don't really work here.

What?

If you think about the major employers in our community, with the exception of primary health care delivery, almost none of them earn the bulk of their revenue from within the boundaries of our state.  That’s a good thing for the local economy, but it can be challenging for local firms as well.  The majority of the employees of the giants are busy all day long serving customers who live across the U.S. and around the world.  And, like all other major modern enterprises, these corporations are able to source goods and services from across the country and the world.  Personally, I take a phone call a week from any number of earnest sales representatives who would like me to outsource work halfway around the globe.

In my own case, when I go to work each day, unless I am travelling, I may sit downtown but am really in New York, or Atlanta, or Hartford, or Phoenix, or Portland, or any number of other places where we have business units or major vendor relationships.  I do occasionally get to spend budgeted dollars with local firms who directly benefit from having us in town.  But to compete for this, these small firms must continue to provide competitively priced services that go beyond having a local phone number.  All things being equal, it is nice to be able to see the people you work with without going to the airport, but it is no longer essential.

The point of all this is to remember that being near the corporate giants is only an advantage if you are either able to provide a service where relationships and closeness matter, or where your local cost is truly advantageous to the client firm.  Certainly one distinct advantage local firms have is that it is easier to get that first opportunity for a meeting with the folks who they see at school functions or rub elbows with at civic events.  And herein lies a secret... managers like me who have some small part in the overall budgeting process really do like to source locally, but proximity is often far from the top factor in play.  The billions of dollars in earnings the giants bring home each year is a lot of money, but the profits from that are not derived by spending freely or without strict observance to shareholder demands and the "strategic sourcing" of vendor relationships; locally, regionally, nationally and globally.  So when contemplating doing business with the giants among us, find your reason for why being local matters.

Tom Cox is the Vice President of Digital Content for Meredith Corporation's Local Media Group (which owns no Iowa television stations).  He resides in West Des Moines with his wife, Liz, and three children who attend West Des Moines schools. 

Young Professionals and Politics

Legal Counsel and Legislative Liaison
Iowa Secretary of State

The terms “young professionals” and “politics” often seem mutually exclusive.  Obviously the world of politics has young professionals who run for office or are employed in politics and government.  Yet, the perception is that young professionals are part of the business world and not the political world.  Some would even argue that except for voting and being part of a democratic republic, most young professionals are not even part of the political process.

  However, I would posit to you that this could not be further from the truth.  In reality, based on your occupation you are probably represented by a lobbyist or a political action committee that is giving money to politicians ostensibly on your behalf.  This link will give you an alphabetical list of the businesses and organizations in Iowa that employ a lobbyist:  http://coolice.legis.iowa.gov/Cool-ICE/default.asp?Category=Matt&Service=Lobby.  This link is an alphabetical list of the current political action committees that are active in Iowa at the state level:   http://www.iowa.gov/ethics/lists/list_download/pacs.pdf.

After reviewing either of these lists, it will be clear to you as a young professional that based solely on your occupation you are indeed part of the political process.  If nothing else, you will recognize that some of your money is already being spent on political campaigns or to impact the legislative process and you did not even realize it.  As such, I would encourage you to spend some time looking through these lists.  This information is all a public record and too few people take the time to look through it.

So why should young professionals care about politics?  Remember that elected officials pass the laws and ordinances that have a direct and indirect impact and influence on your businesses, employments, and everyday lives.  Not only are laws and ordinances an issue, but state agencies and departments are able to adopt administrative rules that basically act like laws.  Several of you are in professions in which your employment activities are heavily regulated by laws and rules.  This is the major reason why your professions have lobbyists and political action committees looking out for your interests. 

Not only do you pay federal taxes and state income taxes, but there payroll taxes, property taxes, franchise fees, and local subdivision assessments.  While I am not arguing for or against these “government revenue generators,” you certainly need to be aware of them and how they impact your career.  Some of the most spirited debates in Iowa politics involve tax issues and rightly so.  Clearly it goes without saying that there are various ways in which the imposition of taxes impacts your life as a young professional. 

So short of running for office or otherwise becoming a young professional that is employed in the world of politics (and I would encourage you all to do those things), what should you be doing?  Read up and familiarize yourself on the issues.  There are plenty of social media opportunities that give you quick access to information.  It is amazing how much knowledge you can capture from a couple of blogs or who you follow on Twitter.      

Get to know people in government and politics.  Remember that they have strict ethics laws including limitations on people able to accept gifts, including free meals, but there are opportunities to interact with them.  Let them know your feelings as a young professional on the issues and how you are impacted.  I believe you will be amazed at how easy it is to access politicians and government officials in Iowa.  I believe you will be even more amazed at how much Iowa’s politicians and government officials appreciate receiving your input.

So as you can see, no matter what your current interests, politics does have an impact on you as a young professional and it is crucial for young professionals to pay attention to political issues.  Brush up on the issues, learn who the players are, and make your voice heard.  It will pay dividends throughout your career. 

Believe in Yourself

Suku Radia
CEO and President
Bankers Trust

My first piece of advice to any young professional who is new to Des Moines is to “believe in yourself.”  If you don’t possess self-confidence, it will show and you will impede not only your career, but you will also have difficulty becoming connected in the community.

Doing everything with the utmost integrity is a given.  Good oral and written communication skills are also as important simply because they enhance your ability both from a career and a social standpoint.  These skills will do wonders for your self-confidence.

When I think about networking and how it has affected my professional life, the first thing that comes to mind is that we live in an absolutely wonderful region of the country where senior leaders are very approachable.  I always encourage young professionals to embark on a journey of networking very early in their careers because this will open many new doors both professionally and socially.  Networking through volunteerism is one of the easiest ways to become connected.  Likewise, developing a sense of curiosity is important so you are not afraid of asking questions. Quite often, young folks are afraid there will be a void in the conversation.  You need to work hard on developing a set of questions which will ensure the conversations are more productive.

As I reflect upon my career, if I had to do just one thing over again, I would have been more selective with which organizations I became involved.  I have overdone it and I have learned the hard way.  I should have said, “no” more often.  While it is good to give back, I believe I have paid much more than my fair share of civic rent.  Fortunately, I have managed to get by on a lot less sleep than most individuals but I am not sure that is a good thing.

Young professionals have a superb opportunity of impacting the community on a number of fronts.  For example, as we think about how well Des Moines has been ranked nationally on a number of attributes; young professionals can enjoy the benefits of the following:

• Our human services organizations are outstanding.  Those people who are in need can always use volunteer help from our young professionals and those opportunities are available every single day.  Furthermore, it feels good to be able to help those who truly need our help.
• Our cultural and arts amenities are always looking for young blood to perpetuate their board of directors.  This is a great leadership opportunity and becoming involved with these organizations is very fulfilling.
• Young professionals can also become involved in mentoring programs relatively early in their careers.  For example, there are organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club and Big Brothers Big Sisters which provide tremendous mentoring opportunities. 

Relationship Building through Networking

Lu Anne Gafford
Vice President - Bankers Trust Clive

Networking is a word that may have different meanings to different people.  For me it is an essential element to help develop my business AND personal relationships.  Notice I said personal too?  Many keep their business and personal so separated, and I do too to a certain extent.  I have developed quite a few friendships from my networking and that to me is worth something that you can’t place a price tag on like you can with a business relationship.  My friendships have also led to several new business relationships too.  The reason I believe is because I have proved to the individuals who are the decision makers that I am someone they can trust and that can speak volumes in these days we live in.

Networking isn't meant to be a situation where you gather as many business cards as you can at an event and leave it at that.  It is meant to develop a relationship to gain business.  But before you can gain the business of a prospect, you have to gain their respect.  Respect in how you behave, how you respond to follow after an event, in the integrity of your business and if they do decide to do business with you, how well you follow through on your delivery of your service or product.  You may have a great company you work for or one that has had some struggles, but if you yourself do not have integrity then you may not ever have a chance at securing that relationship or worse yet you may lose a client because of your lack thereof. 

I think it is great to see the Des Moines area business community offering a Young Professionals organization.  It is a great outlet for all to learn from one another at what may be a successful process or what hasn't worked so well.  It is a great learning environment and I am jealous that I was not afforded the same opportunity in my beginning networking days.  I challenge each of you to make the most of the different events and opportunities that your Board arranges.  Go to these events and try to connect with three new individuals.  Don’t always go looking for the same familiar faces and stay right by their side.  Find new faces to connect with.  Get to know them, I mean really know them.  Ask questions of their personal background, hobbies, families etc.  Try to connect with them.  Remember, they are a person first and the face of the business second.  I also want to encourage everyone to get involved with an organization that has all ages involved too.  This is where you can learn from someone who has had many successes and failures in networking world.  You cannot expect to have all good all of the time.  In fact, it is through the failures I think that we all learn the most from.  I know I have had my share of experiences and I think these situations have helped to develop and form me into a better networker.  Try to get to know someone who has networked for a while.  Ask them to share their secrets or successes.  Maybe they would be willing to mentor you.  I have done a little this and I have placed my own spin on some of the examples I have gained from these conversations.  We are all unique, but we have the same desire to belong or be connected, so get out there and network and I’ll see you around at a future event.  Come introduce yourself to me and let’s get to know one another. 

Happy networking and I look forward to meeting you at future events.

Finding a Plumber...

Mike Draper- RAYGUN owner

When I started RAYGUN, the whole venture seemed a little uncertain. I had never screenprinted, I had never used design software, I had never worked in retail, I had never used a cash register, and I didn’t know anyone with similar businesses. I was a 21-year-old history student at the University of Pennsylvania and only knew that I wasn’t cut out for a regular job.

Now when I look back at the trajectory of the company, since it all really started in 2004, I realize that you may need artistic talent to be a great artist. But if you’re looking to build an artistic company, being a great artist isn’t even in the top three things you need.

Number one above all else: reply to all your e-mails as soon as you can.

This really applies to any field. And if you can do that, your odds of success sky-rocket. Replying to all e-mails as soon as possible will help establish some personal discipline, which lets you slog through the endless bullshit that small businesses really face (finding a plumber, fixing a messed-up order from a supplier, find the right kind of track-light bulb). It’s a simple base of your daily routine.

Replying to all e-mails also establishes an aura of dependability with those you’re corresponding with. And dependability is the top thing  you need to run a successful artistic, or non-artistic company. Because at the end of the day, a customer doesn’t necessarily know amazing art from great art, but they do know if it’s a month late. They do know if they’ve been disrespected or not appreciated.

In the beginning, I used to do custom printing and design for other people (that side was sold in 2010), and dependability was my main business edge.

Say you’re a potential screenprinting customer, and your boss has given you a job: have 500 purple t-shirts with a log on them by Friday or you’re fired.

Now, say you have two friends: one is the Picasso + Michelangelo +  Da Vinci of screenprinting, but he only gets stuff done on time 50% of the time, the other friend is me, owner of RAYGUN, who does fine work, but has it done 100% of the time.

You’d have to be high on mescaline to choose the non-dependably guy. Your assignment is not to get great on a t-shirt no matter how long it takes, your assignment is just to have t-shirts by Friday.

There’s an upside and a downside to this business advice.

The upside is that anyone has the potential to do it. Any able bodied person can be dependable, just like any able bodied person can lose weight or control their diet.

The downside is that barely anyone can really accomplish it. Being dependable involves showing up every day. Working hard. Just like losing weight requires eating right and exercising.

The steps are simple, the implementation is hard.

But like losing weight, most people will tell you that there was one small, turning point when they knew they had to do it. For me, the most important thing was my decision that I knew I didn’t want a regular job after college. I wanted to do something creative, and I’d do whatever it took to realize that. Only then, when I was pointed in the right direction, in the direction that I cared about, was I able to muster the discipline to keep my dependability up every day for years on end.