When the team has your back

Welcome to September and the home stretch of 2019. Hopefully, this period will include plenty of machining after a summer lull in our market that involved lots of people on vacation and a few projects put on hold until those people returned. Whatever the reasons for the letup, some suppliers eventually were impacted—we noticed an increase in their visits and requests for business. They explained that a number of markets suddenly had slowed and because our shop was consistent, they were eager to maintain our account and provide professional service. We also noticed a sizable increase in contacts from out-of-state companies seeking business, indicating an ease in manufacturing.

Such meetings with good suppliers may include owners like me, managers or other key employees. Visits might feature a lunch outing or a trip to the shop office. But sometimes, owners aren’t available and can’t be present for a conversation. This scheduling conflict puts us in the position of relying on employees to professionally represent and support the company. It requires confidence and trust in crucial employees, who we must have on our side to succeed.

This requirement was made clear to me again after an important supplier finished a business lunch with several of our staff members but no owner. After returning to our office, the account manager saw me and privately reiterated his appreciation for our business and the professionalism of our staff. Best of all, he affirmed our employees’ vocal support and backing of the owners and managers, even with all the ups and downs.