The Connecticut Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD) recently hosted a Reputation MADE event, highlighting how leaders across the state are building influence and making a meaningful impact every day. From small business owners to media professionals, panelists and keynote speakers shared insights on how relationships, integrity, and consistency create long-term value for both individuals and organizations.
Key Insights from Leaders
Keynotes Anthony Anthony (Chief Marketing Officer, CT Office of Tourism & Marketing) and Kathryn Hauser (Reporter/Anchor, WTNH/News 8) emphasized that professional standing isn’t just about recognition—it’s about people-focused practices and purpose-driven communication.
In a fast-paced, digital world, attention is fleeting; Anthony noted that the average person scrolls the equivalent of 300 feet per day and checks their phone 144 times daily. Standing out requires careful listening, understanding your audience, and adapting without losing sight of your core values.
Panelists from diverse industries, ranging from newsrooms and grocery stores to emerging automotive parts and tobacco businesses, highlighted the importance of knowing your audience, emphasizing everyday practices, and refining what makes you unique. They stressed that organizations should honor their roots while responding to emerging trends, including shifts in demographics and consumer behavior, to remain relevant and respected.
Pictured: (L>R) Marianne Salzman of Philip Morris, Scott Drozd of FCP Euro, and Stew Leonard of Stew Leonard’s.
Practical Takeaways for Professionals
- Consistency Builds Credibility – Daily actions, communications, and decisions reflect both personal and corporate integrity.
- Listen, Learn, Adapt – Whether through social media, emails, or in-person interactions, paying attention to stakeholders ensures relevance and effectiveness.
- Set Realistic Goals – Introduce new strategies thoughtfully, measure results, and scale without losing sight of current objectives.
- Prioritize People Over Promotion – Engagement focused on human needs resonates more than flashy campaigns. Be clear, concise, and solution oriented.
- Value Perception, Not Just Metrics – Data shows trends, but long-term influence comes from authenticity and consistent behavior.
Why Relationships Matter
The event underscored that influence is built through connections. Every interaction is an opportunity to strengthen bonds and leave a lasting impression. By nurturing relationships, leaders can extend their reach, enhance credibility, and foster stronger collaboration within teams, customers, and communities.
Pictured: Julia Florence, Communications Manager, Chamber of Commerce of Eastern CT with (L) Michelle Boner, VP Public Relations, Adams & Knight; (R) Paul Mounds, Jr.,VP of Community, Corp. & Gov’t Relations, L+M/Yale New Haven Health & Paul Robertson, DECD Commissioner.
A Reminder for Chamber Members and Business Leaders
For Chamber members and business leaders, each interaction, whether with a customer, colleague, or community partner, is a chance to deepen engagement and reinforce integrity. By investing in people, fostering meaningful connections, and maintaining consistent practices, organizations can create a presence that stands out and endures.
As the next Connecticut MADE Leadership Series event approaches in the New Year, take these insights to heart as the Chamber team will: focus on relationships, communicate with purpose, and never underestimate the impact of daily actions. The results of cultivating a strong professional presence aren’t just measured in metrics or headlines, they’re reflected in community influence, stakeholder confidence, and the lasting legacy we create.
Pictured: Rachel Lenda, former Chamber employee and current State Director of Tourism, with Chamber Communications Manager, Julia Florence.