In a recent discussion with our local early career professionals that left the region and are returning to the Dayton area, we talked to them about what’s bringing them back. The answer is more than the culture of our companies, it’s the culture of our community. Midwest values, work ethic, honesty and quality of life are attributes that are top drivers for those returning to Dayton.
This community culture is a characteristic that all of our businesses, our local governments, non profit organization and community leaders effect.
It’s a driving reason why all of us are in the Dayton region and it’s a driving reason why young people are returning home. These returning professionals make our community vibrant, contribute to our businesses and address our workforce issues.
As much as it’s important for all of us to drive the culture of our community, it’s just as important that these young professionals are engaged and contributing to the culture of our community.
Engaging in non profits, supporting the communities where you live and telling the Dayton story is a responsibility that all of us own. Culture is a top driver for retaining talent in your organization and the same is true for our community.
It has taken decades to create a community culture that supports individualism, uniqueness, quality of life , family, inclusiveness, nd innovation.
Now, it is our job as a community to build on this culture and help it evolve as our community evolves. My grandfather, a retired tool designer from the NCR Corporation always said,” Patronize where you live.
Chris Kershner is the president and CEO of the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce.