terry jones - withstanding the economic downturn
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photo by steed media service
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Chairman, Charlotte Mecklenburg Black Chamber of Commerce
As the economy continues to teeter on the brink of a recession, small business owners are seeking financial advice like never before in hopes of withstanding the inevitable financial downturn. As chairman of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Black Chamber of Commerce in Charlotte, N.C., Terry Jones understands the nuts and bolts of operating a business during difficult economic conditions.
“There still are ways for them to get business [and] gain access to capital,” says Jones of Charlotte’s current business climate. “But I think the diversity initiative with the Charlotte Chamber will help alleviate a lot of [challenges] because there is a great focus on making sure that those businesses get the right support system[s].”
In his role as a risk manager for Wachovia Bank, Jones has mastered the wealth-building techniques that are beneficial to business owners. He spearheads the chamber’s initiatives, which include conducting business seminars at Central Piedmont Community College’s Institute for Entrepreneurship, fostering networking opportunities between seasoned corporate players and business owners, and facilitating dialogue with similarly focused organizations. The financial expert says that although organizational backing is ideal; people should always educate themselves about their niche.
“A lot of times people start to focus on some of the things [that] are not as tangible, in terms of just networking with the right people and corporations,” he shares. “I think it is equally important to know your craft [and] be known as an expert to the fullest extent.”
-marissa mitchell
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