The start of the New Year 2021 was not easy. Washington was in turmoil and we do not know for sure what lies ahead. We are becoming aware that the first quarter will be tough for consumers and many businesses that have not worked out a New Style Business Plan.
As you know last February we adjusted down our January sales meeting business plan and budget and implemented a new strategy for survival in 2020. We found we were better able to gauge success in 2020 when we worked in quarter-by-quarter reporting, rather than trying to stick to a budget, even the reduced version.
This quarterly overview meant that shorter operational periods and quick decisions could be implemented. We found that staff wanted to be at the office and not at home. We introduced more ‘can we service and repair’ your machinery. We worked with our overseas partners to help them remain stable with new orders, while maintaining our long term plan, vision, and values of offering the best quality machinery, with highest productivity and lowest waste. Our New Style Business plan was implemented with increased contact at all levels with our customers, going above and beyond to service them, and meet their every request. Customer service and service technicians played key parts. In-house Zoom presentations grew into slick movies as the year progressed.
At all times we remained focused on our financials, knowing they are only indicators of success, but needed by the banks for security of investment purposes. Our young team of Managers were tasked with a renewed sense of purpose that enabled them to pivot to face the unknown opportunities and challenges each quarter. They came through on all levels. Our contacts with vendors became very important to our success. We discussed and understood their needs.
It seemed at that time, 2020 would never end. We are looking back and taking stock of the things that worked during the pandemic to use again in 2021.
As CEO I learned a lot of new ideas in 2020. I hopefully became more agile, and open to new ideas from everyone, while connecting with the three teams.
Let’s meet target One in the first quarter and plan for quarter Two as the period progresses. Follow the New Style Business Plan with contacts up and down and behind every possible order.
