In an effort to provide readers with a more personal, inside look at the people who make up our team here at S.C. Commerce, we're excited to continue our 'Getting to Know' series. Featuring interviews with various members of the Commerce staff, we hope this addition will offer a unique perspective from some of the state's top economic developers. In this week’s edition, we spoke with Nelson Lindsay, director of our Global Business division:
Q: During your career in economic development, you have worked at both the state and local levels. What were some of the key things that you learned working for county economic development organizations that you’ve been able to apply in your role here?
A: The same lessons I learned on the local level are applicable to the state -- always be prepared and be flexible. On both levels, being prepared for a company visit, with an eye toward trying to anticipate the needs of the client, is critical. This is also where flexibility is important. In economic development, we must be able to react professionally to changes in the project, no matter how frustrating they may be.
Q: If you could go back and give one piece of advice to your younger self on your first day in economic development, what would it be?
A: Savor the moments. This job can be extremely rewarding and equally maddening even on the same day. With that in mind, I would want to enjoy the victories more since they are fewer than the tough moments.
Q: What are some of the aspects of your current role as Director of Global Business that inspire you the most?
A: It has been, and will always be, the feeling of satisfaction when a company lands in a community, and you can meet some of the employees positively impacted by that decision. Nothing beats being able to help a person provide for their family.
Q: Looking ahead, what’s something that you’d like to see your team accomplish in 2018?
A: Continue the momentum that we have; 2017 was a great year for South Carolina, and maintaining that momentum will be difficult but achievable.
And, on a lighter note:
Q: What book, movie or TV show could you not do without?
A: I’m a big Seinfeld fan and can usually relate most of life’s experiences back to an episode of the show. It always makes me laugh, no matter how many times I have seen the episode.
Q: What’s the best sporting event you’ve ever attended?
A: Not sure this was the best ever, but I just took my son to see the mighty Wofford Terriers beat UNC in basketball in Chapel Hill. I enjoyed witnessing this upset in person, as no one expected it to happen. It was an excellent birthday gift for my son.