Rojas recently moved up from Houston to get back to her western roots. After gaining experience in larger cities, primarily in the hospitality industry, she says she excited about the chance to help serve local businesses and Chamber Members in Montezuma County. Rojas recently answered a few questions for The Cortez Journal about herself, and her thoughts on the business climate in Montezuma County.
Question: Tell me a little about yourself. Where are you from originally, and where did you live most recently?
Answer: Until the age of 14, I lived primary in California, after which my family moved to Utah. During college, I lived in Logan and Salt Lake City, graduating with my bachelor’s degree in business entrepreneurship. About two years ago, I moved to Houston to advance my career and gain access to more varied perspectives. Although that was a worthwhile, whirlwind experience of growth, I am happy to be back at home in the mountains.
Question: What drew you to the opportunity with the Cortez Chamber?
Answer: Shortly upon moving to the area, I was working very part-time, settling in and building desire for an opportunity to mix and mingle with the driven people of the area. People with entrepreneurial spirit, that have come to Montezuma County to work hard and play hard, very much like the balance I came to this area to find for myself. This position is a perfect introduction to the area, and allows me to utilize my organization and communication skills.
Question: You have a really strong hospitality background and have gained experience in some big cities. What are some skills you’ve picked up that can apply to a small-town business community?
Answer: Working in hospitality and events, especially in a large city, teaches you all about perspectives and how to think creatively to find solutions that match the whole. This takes into account seemingly conflicting perspectives, from the employees that work varying tasks, shifts and environments to the hotel and event guests all with different personalities, needs, desires and levels of urgency. It is important to see how all these pieces come together into a puzzle that creates feelings of joy and abundance for everyone. To gain these perspectives, I have learned to remain observant, ask questions and actively listen. I take everything I hear, even the words out of my own mouth, with a grain of salt, although I remain as empathetic as possible.
Question: Are there any changes or new initiatives that current Chamber members, or those considering membership can expect to see under your leadership?
Answer: There are many changes to come – we are excited about creating initiatives that will add longstanding value to our Chamber members. At this time, we are looking to our members to point the way to these changes. On August 19, the Chamber Board will have a Strategy Meeting to discuss the transition and decide on what direction we would like to go in specific areas. I personally would like to promote more committees designated by industry, interests and/or function, where people can collaborate, network and share ideas. Also, it is important to me to implement workshops and gatherings that build marketing, leadership, teamwork and other skills to advance our community.
Question: In your opinion, what are some of the biggest challenges for small-town businesses today?
Answer: Small-town businesses rely more on their community than they realize. Yes, much of the economic stability of the Four Corners area is driven by tourism, although there are Montezuma County citizens that could offer a more consistent, year-round economical support as long as the services and products they are needing are being provided. In this area, use of the Internet for marketing leverage has not really taken off, which is likely due to poor Internet connectivity on cellular devices. In larger cities, reviews, menus, websites and other information are readily available on your phone before you arrive to the business. This creates awareness in the community and also initiates competitive creativity. Businesses are able to fall into their niche and gain loyal customers. It also gives a platform to discuss how local businesses are falling short in providing needed resources for the community.
Question: What’s the best business advice you’ve gotten?
Answer: The best advice, in business or otherwise, is to be yourself – your truest and most authentic representation of yourself at all times.
