Why Rochester?

Last year, I found myself taking a serious look at career opportunities in other markets. Portland. Pittsburgh. NYC. Philly. LA.

But when the smoke cleared, I chose to remain in Rochester.

“I just don’t understand,” came the refrain from recruiters. “What’s so great about that place?”

As attendees at this morning’s Eyes on the Future event know, a response could fill pages, volumes, and shelves. Residents of this region are passionate about extolling the cost of living. Short commutes. Access to world-class healthcare and culture. Top ranked schools. The overall quality of life. [Check out this "Why ROC" compilation from GRE.]

At the same time, the business climate is positive. Despite the well-publicized struggles of Kodak and some other old-line companies, corporations are thriving. Investment capital is available. The “open for business” signs are hung with pride.

Sure, we’re not lying in a bed of roses (or lilacs, as the case may be). From my own perspective, trying to grow a marketing communications firm based on Rochester business alone could be a challenge.

In our first few months of operation, we’ve taken on some incredible locally-based clients, but we’re also doing work with companies in Shanghai.  In Switzerland. Virginia and California. Mexico. How? Despite its location, Rochester’s workforce has a global perspective, honed by decades of executives passing through the ranks of Xerox, Bausch & Lomb and other multinationals, plus mid-sized start-ups of late.

When I first moved from the New York City area to Rochester in 1997, my decision was met with skepticism. “You’ll be back,” was the refrain.

Fifteen years later, when those same friends pay our family a visit, their words have miraculously changed. “How could you ever think of leaving?” they ask. We just hand them another white hot and glass of Finger Lakes wine, and smile.