In my role as president of AMA Houston, I’m lucky to have the opportunity to work with fellow AMA chapter leaders from across the country to share best practices and ideas. The more I talk with marketers from out of state, the more aware I become of how the current economic climate has affected each of us across the country in very different ways.
Economic growth continues to strengthen in Houston. 12-month employment growth rose to 65,100 through July 2011, the third highest in the nation. This is contrary to much of the country, where economic growth waned over the summer months. Our city’s employment rose by 2.6%, compared to national growth of 0.9%. These are very positive signs. But, while Houston’s economy remains relatively sheltered from the economic recession, individuals were still impacted.
Several of Houston’s best and brightest marketers remain in job transition. Whether we are dealing with corporate layoffs, budget cuts, or simply cutting back on our personal spending, the AMA community has felt the effects of the economic downturn in one way or another.
Over the past couple of years, AMA Houston has lost many volunteers due to the recession. Because of their immense contributions to our Chapter and the Houston marketing community, our board of directors has selected a handful of past volunteers to receive a membership gift, where AMA Houston will cover the cost of their membership dues for one year. By doing so, our star volunteers are able to reengage and take advantage of the educational and networking opportunities that are so vital when looking for new employment. And, AMA Houston is strengthened because of their continued involvement.
We are hopeful that the economy in Houston, and especially in the hardest hit cities across the U.S., will continue to improve over the next 12 to 24 months. We are confident that jobs will continue to come back to our city. In the meantime, AMA Houston is more determined than ever to do our part to ensure that our members are given the resources they need to find their next opportunity.
On behalf our AMA Houston’s board of directors, we wish you a safe and joyful holiday season and look forward to a prosperous 2012 – together.
Sincerely,
Stacey Eddington
President – AMA Houston
