City officials are discussing the idea of investing in a new marketing slogan and developing a long-range marketing plan to better promote the city throughout the Hampton Roads area.

While this initiative is important and good marketing is crucial to recruiting new residents, businesses and employers, the best marketing effort is done by every business and every resident who calls Suffolk home.

Marketing begins in the appearance of our buildings, the cleanliness of our yards and the personality of our employees.

It is often said you only have one chance to make a first impression.

To a visitor, to a potential business, it is the little things that make the difference when they gain an impression of an area. It could be the well-kept sidewalks, manicured parks and medians or the smile they receive from a store clerk that leaves them with a great feeling for Suffolk.

While the city’s efforts to develop an extensive marketing plan are important, they should not stand alone in the overall presentation of our city. Yes, it is their job to ensure the streets are clean and the parks well-kept, but it is our responsibility to not litter and ensure that our areas are presentable.

When it comes to marketing Suffolk, thousands of dollars won’t mean a thing if we all don’t buy into our own image.