PJC’s SBDC sponsors free seminars in Greenville

Published or Revised April 05, 2013

Helping local entrepreneurs and businesses succeed is the goal of two small business seminars sponsored by the Paris Junior College Small Business Development Center and the Greenville Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Bureau. The presenter is Marc Willson who brings more than 36 years of experience refining and promoting retail businesses and restaurants to the public. “We are so pleased to be able to present Mr. Willson’s services free to the Greenville community,” said SBDC Director Bradley Gottshalk. “He is known as an operations expert and has counseled more than 500 clients in best practices, marketing and customer service. His seminars and presentations help keep entrepreneurs current in an extremely competitive and changing environment.” The first seminar, “Staying Relevant to a Changing Consumer,” will cover changes among consumers of all ages. It will include an overview of the economic climate and what consumers want in 2013; how a deep recession alters consumer buying habits; marketing, promotions and social media; and merchandising and store layout. It will be held at the Fletcher Warren Civic Center on Tuesday, April 16, from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. “The Experience Matters,” tailored for restaurants and hotels, focuses on keeping customers returning. This seminar includes what is hot in 2013; four things a business’ appearance communicates to customers; ten customer service tips; and social media for hospitality. This seminar will be held at the Fletcher Warren Civic Center on Thursday, April 18, from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Helping retail, restaurant and tourism-related small businesses promote their concepts is something Willson has done for decades. He helps small business owners determine why their business is unique, who their customers are, and how to reach them. He is well known as an operations expert and has counseled countless retailers in areas of marketing and customer service, merchandising, social media, and financials and cash flow. He began his career in 1975 as co-owner of the largest Earth Shoes distributor in the United States. He joined Britches of Georgetowne and left it as Vice President of Operations after 12 years. He opened 83 mall-based Circuit City stores, served as president of Storetrax, Inc., and opened the world’s first energy efficiency store for Current Energy, LLC. Willson holds an MBA from James Madison University and an MA from George Washington University. Following each presentation, Willson will be available for a limited number of free, 90-minute audits at the business locations. Slots are limited. To make a reservation or for more information call 903-782-0224.