Who Are You Really?
This is not the time for an identity crisis.
For those of us manufacturing in the wood products industry where the proverbial pie is shrinking, it’s not the time to be a clone. When you’re getting in line for your piece of the pie, being a clone can be a severe handicap when the bid list is 20+ deep. This segment appears to be bent on hitting the panic button and buying the next job at a loss just to keep the lights on for another week. I’ve also been there. In my years in this industry I’ve been there and done that. Recessions are economic corrections and we all must learn from these difficult times.
HAVE AN IDENTITY!
Have a story to tell, know what you’re good at and focus on it.
This isn’t to say you can’t be flexible but you need to know who you are.
Maybe you should reconsider which line you get into? When the lowest price is the only consideration, you would be amazed at how competitive you can be if you’re in the right line.
Be a relationship builder. Customers don’t only need a good price; they need performance and a commitment to reach their project goals. Relationships are built on trust not just price.
It’s in the customer’s best interest to have a relationship with a financially stable well-performing shop they can trust. A good relationship can get you a pass to the front of the line.
It’s very difficult to be a relationship builder as a clone. It’s not impossible but the line is pretty long these days.
I would welcome your comments,
Andy Wilzoch
303.339.4120 x 214
President
Premier EuroCase, Inc.
Roucke, Inc.
