Best practices delivered by thought leaders at SBJ event

Communication is key, and giving your full self to your business can be fruitful. Those were among best practices presented this morning at Springfield Business Journal's annual 90 Ideas in 90 Minutes event.

Nine people selected by SBJ Publisher Jennifer Jackson spoke at Alamo Drafthouse Springfield to highlight some of the best ideas they've learned throughout their careers. Videos from the event will be released in January.

Snippets from this morning’s event are below.

Zac Rantz, chief communications officer, Nixa Public Schools

Idea: See the end goal and be flexible getting there.

"Getting to the end goal is not as important as how you get there."

Roger Flessing, senior vice president and chief communications officer, Convoy of Hope

Idea: Better questions lead to better solutions.

"Ask the right question. If you do not ask the right question, you will not get the right answer."

Susan Miles, executive director, Champion Athletes of the Ozarks

Idea: Keep the focus on your mission.

"You have to sometimes say no to keep yourself on mission."

Jerany Jackson, senior project manager, Great River Engineering Inc.

Idea: Enjoy every moment.

"Laughter is like a diplomatic superhero. We just have to believe."

Alec Palen, director of marketing, Palen Music

Idea: Double down on relational marketing.

"Your customer experience should be half of your marketing plan. If your customer experience falls short ... you're falling in the overrated category."

Patty Wingo, owner, Simply Delicious Catering

Idea: Whatever you do, go all in.

"There weren't a lot of catering companies in Springfield, Missouri, [when I started]. I jumped full force all the way in. That's how I roll."

Mark Powell, owner/CEO, Mark Powell Mediation

Idea: Serve when called.

"If you are called to serve on a jury, think about the people who are in the litigation – and serve. This is what you can do to help your community."

Jonathan Bell, CEO, Bells Marketing Consultant LLC

Idea: Creating your community is powerful.

"I believe it's going to be one of the largest hubs for professionals. However, we have a lot of work to do."

Sherry Coker, owner, Coker Consulting LLC

Idea: Eat dessert first.

"Life is so stinking short. Eating dessert first is one of the most important things you can do. It's a great conversation starter."