Johnson County is buzzing. The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well, with new ventures sprouting up and established businesses forging ahead. From the heart of downtown to the vibrant outskirts, innovation and growth are the name of the game.
Johnson County Celebrates Business Achievements at Aspire Awards
Recognizing Growth and Innovation
Five businesses and nonprofits were honored for their efforts during Aspire Johnson County’s annual awards ceremony Thursday. Elevated Marketing Solutions, Door Services of Indiana and Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial took home Business Success awards, while CMS Corp. received the inaugural Diversity in Business Award and Habitat for Humanity of Johnson County received the inaugural Green Business Award. The recipients were announced and honored by Aspire, the county’s chamber of commerce, during the Celebrate Aspire event at The Garment Factory in Franklin.
The Business Success Award recognizes organizations that demonstrate qualified success in one or more of the following areas: growth and stability, commitment to quality, creative solutions to challenges and entrepreneurial spirit. It is subdivided into three categories: for-profit businesses of 1 to 9 employees, for-profit businesses with 10 or more employees, and nonprofits, according to Aspire.
Finalists for the for-profit businesses of 1 to 9 employees award were Aphrodite Esthetics, ASAP Payroll, Hoosier Shooting Academy and the winner, Elevated Marketing Solutions. The company is “not a dot com marketing company but rather a dot solutions agency,” said Leeanne Lollar, the 2024 chair of the chamber’s board of directors, who presented the company with the award. Elevated’s reporting process identifies what is working, what is not and what they are going to do about it. With their data-driven strategies, employees can “take emotions out of the decision-making process,” Lollar said.
2022 was a difficult year for Elevated regarding staffing, yet the company still saw an almost 3% increase in annual sales from 2021 to 2022. From 2022 to 2023, annual sales increased 46.7%, she said. The company’s workforce is also virtual, and consistent coaching on how to work for clients and with teammates in a virtual environment has helped with the company’s retention and growth, Lollar said.
Door Services of Indiana received the for-profit business with 10 or more employees award, beating out The Garrett Companies, Texas Roadhouse and VisionQuest Eyecare. Door Services is a small, locally owned, women’s business enterprise that distributes and services commercial frames, doors and hardware. Through strong leadership and strategy, they overcame obstacles created by moving from Indianapolis to Franklin and increased their annual sales from 2022 to 2023 by 74%, Lollar said.
The company also created an environment that fosters motivated, engaged and productive team members. Company officials initiated quarterly incentives and employee benefits training, and team-building events to promote a healthy workplace culture, she said. They made the “bold decision” to not use voicemail. Door Services’ estimators and project managers personally call customers and talk with them directly, Lollar said.
“Their goal is to support $4-6 million in revenue per year by providing quality products to fit their customers’ needs, budgets and construction schedule. Their current backlog for 2024-2025 is approximately $11 million,” she said. “Knowing their business philosophies and culture, we understand why they have been so successful.”
Elevated Marketing Solutions: A Data-Driven Success Story
Elevated Marketing Solutions, a data-driven marketing agency, was recognized for its innovative approach and ability to overcome staffing challenges.
The company’s virtual work environment fosters employee engagement and retention. Leeanne Lollar, chair of Aspire’s board of directors, praised Elevated’s commitment to data-driven decision-making, stating, “With their data-driven strategies, employees can ‘take emotions out of the decision-making process.’”
Despite facing staffing difficulties in 2022, Elevated Marketing Solutions achieved nearly a 3% increase in annual sales compared to 2021. Further demonstrating their resilience and growth, the company saw a remarkable 46.7% surge in annual sales from 2022 to 2023.
Elevated Marketing Solutions’ success can be attributed to several key factors:
- Data-Driven Approach: By leveraging data analytics, the company makes informed decisions, optimizing marketing campaigns and achieving better results.
- Virtual Work Environment: This flexible work model allows for greater employee autonomy and work-life balance, contributing to higher retention rates.
- Employee Coaching and Development: Consistent coaching on virtual collaboration and client communication equips employees with the skills necessary to thrive in a remote setting.
- Quarterly Incentives: These reward programs motivate employees and recognize their contributions.
- Employee Benefits Training: Equipping employees with knowledge about available benefits empowers them to make informed decisions regarding their well-being.
- Team-Building Events: Fostering a sense of camaraderie and collaboration among team members strengthens relationships and creates a positive work environment.
Door Services of Indiana: Building Excellence Through Personal Touch
Door Services of Indiana, a commercial door and hardware provider, captured the award for its commitment to customer service and impressive sales growth.
Company officials attribute their success to a combination of strong leadership, strategic planning, and a focus on building a positive workplace culture.
A key differentiator for Door Services of Indiana is their personal approach to customer interactions. They opted to forgo voicemail, ensuring that customers are directly contacted by estimators and project managers. This personalized communication fosters stronger relationships and builds trust.
Their commitment to employee engagement is evident in their initiatives:
These efforts have resulted in a significant increase in sales, with Door Services of Indiana achieving a 74% rise in annual sales from 2022 to 2023.
The company’s commitment to providing quality products, personalized service, and a supportive work environment has propelled them to success in a competitive market.
Johnson County Business News: March 22 – Daily Journal
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on several remarkable businesses and organizations that have made significant strides in various areas of their operations. From innovative approaches to community development to a commitment to sustainability, these companies are setting the bar high for their peers.
Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial: Navigating Challenges with Resilience
Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial, a financial services organization built to help families and communities, has faced its fair share of challenges. However, through direct clear communication, critical hiring, and a firm conviction in developing processes, the organization has overcome a significant setback in 2022, which resulted in a 55% decrease in annual revenue.
By piloting a program designed to help onboard and train new associate financial representatives, Modern Woodmen has been able to increase retention and drive growth. This impressive rebound is a testament to the organization’s resilience and commitment to its mission.
Furthermore, Modern Woodmen’s dedication to community development is evident in its initiatives to support families and individuals. The organization’s focus on building strong relationships with its clients and partners has enabled it to provide valuable resources and services that make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
The importance of open communication and employee development cannot be overstated in overcoming adversity. Modern Woodmen’s approach to these areas has been instrumental in its success, and it serves as a valuable lesson for other organizations looking to navigate similar challenges.
Diversity and Sustainability Take Center Stage
As we celebrate the achievements of these businesses, it’s essential to highlight the significance of diversity and sustainability in the modern business world.
CMS Corp. Makes History with Inaugural Diversity Award
CMS Corp. has made history by receiving the inaugural Diversity in Business Award, a testament to its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. This achievement is a significant milestone for the organization, and it serves as a beacon of hope for other companies striving to create a more inclusive environment.
The significance of recognizing diversity in business cannot be overstated. A diverse workforce is not only a moral imperative but also a business necessity. Studies have shown that diverse teams are more innovative, productive, and profitable than their homogeneous counterparts.
CMS Corp.’s commitment to diversity is evident in its initiatives and policies, which include training programs, employee resource groups, and a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and discrimination. These efforts have created a culture of inclusion, where every employee feels valued and respected.
The impact of diversity on innovation and growth cannot be overstated. Companies that prioritize diversity are more likely to attract top talent, innovate, and stay ahead of the competition. As CMS Corp. continues to lead the way in diversity and inclusion, it serves as a model for other businesses to follow.
Habitat for Humanity of Johnson County: Building a Greener Future
Habitat for Humanity of Johnson County has made a name for itself as a leader in sustainable building practices. The organization’s award-winning green building initiatives have set a new standard for the industry, and its commitment to sustainability is inspiring other businesses to follow suit.
Habitat for Humanity’s focus on sustainability is not just a passing trend but a long-term strategy that has far-reaching benefits. By creating affordable housing that minimizes environmental impact, the organization is not only helping families in need but also contributing to a healthier planet.
The growing importance of sustainability in the business world cannot be overstated. As consumers become increasingly environmentally conscious, companies that prioritize sustainability are more likely to attract customers and stay ahead of the competition. Habitat for Humanity’s commitment to sustainability is a shining example of this trend.
Furthermore, Habitat for Humanity’s efforts to create affordable housing while minimizing environmental impact have significant implications for the broader community. By addressing the need for affordable housing and promoting sustainable practices, the organization is contributing to a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
Conclusion
As we conclude our latest installment of Johnson County business news, it’s clear that the local economy is experiencing a surge in growth and innovation. Our article highlighted key developments in the region, including the expansion of notable companies, the launch of new startups, and the implementation of infrastructure projects that are poised to transform the business landscape. These breakthroughs not only demonstrate the resilience and adaptability of Johnson County businesses but also underscore the region’s potential as a hub for entrepreneurship and economic development.
The significance of these developments cannot be overstated, as they have far-reaching implications for the local community and the wider economy. By creating jobs, stimulating investment, and driving technological advancements, these initiatives are helping to cement Johnson County’s position as a leader in the regional business scene. As the local economy continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how these developments shape the future of the region and create new opportunities for businesses and residents alike.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that Johnson County is poised for continued growth and success. With its thriving business community, talented workforce, and innovative spirit, the region is well-positioned to tackle the challenges of the 21st century and emerge as a leader in the national economy. As we move forward, it will be essential for businesses, policymakers, and residents to work together to build on this momentum and create a brighter, more prosperous future for all.