Top Resources for Marketing Professionals or Growing a Side Hustle Moving to the Tri-Cities

Welcome to the Tri-Cities! In the past two years we’ve seen such a huge growth of professionals in marketing or those of you wanting to grow a side hustle as you work remotely here in Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, and surrounding areas.

Here are the top resources for networking and professional development for you all:

AAF – American Advertising Federation

Here is a link to AAF in Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol — https://www.facebook.com/AAFNETN

Here is a link to AAF SW VA — https://www.facebook.com/aafswva

PRSA – Public Relations Society of America 

Here is a link if you are a PR pro (great for corporate professionals) – https://www.facebook.com/TriCitiesPRSA

Growing a Side Hustle?

You’ve got join this fb group, Tuesdays Together by Rising Tide (photographers, wedding industry, and fun group to network and hang out/while learning) — https://www.facebook.com/groups/tuesdaystogethertricitiestn

Young Professional: network or learn?

I am a member of the Young Professionals of Johnson City. I pay $10 to be a membership and I enjoy the lunch and learns. These groups are full of activities and socials.

There is also a Kingsport and a Bristol chapter!

Entrepreneur?

Founders Forge — “We believe in underdog entrepreneurs in the Appalachian Highlands and helping them on their startup!” – I recently attended my first lunch meeting and “The Pitch” event and had a great time!

I also encourage those of you starting a business or relocating a business from your current state to TN to join a local Chapter of Commerce when you move here. Attend the breakfasts, after hours, and ribbon cuttings.

Most important Contact for Businesses

Finally, my 10 year old business wouldn’t be where it is if it wasn’t for the local TSBDC chapter. Your contact is Mark Bays in Johnson City or Aundrea Salyer in Kingsport.

Bonus: Veterans starting a business

The STRIVE program is a FREE entrepreneurship training program for Veterans, Reserve and National Guard members. (Spouses too) Deadline is approaching!

Learn more here: https://www.etsu.edu/cbat/strive.php

Faith Based Business?

You have to check out Summit Leadership.

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Did I miss anything or curious to learn more about these resources? Reach out to me privately. I help businesses with marketing through consultations or workshops/webinars for their staff/businesses teaching them the latest on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook and more!

• Lead Instructor for the TikTok SOAR Veteran-Owned Accelerator Program with the Association of Women’s Business Centers (AWBC)
• Mastering the Art of Persuasion: Unconventional Marketing Tactics That Drive Results
• How to Build a Personal Brand | The Marketing Chatroom (Video)
• Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World by Mark Schaefer – my review
• Featured on Personal Brand Blueprint Podcast: Authentic Brand Growth Strategies