Members gathered in San Diego, California on November 9th through the 13th for our Annual Meeting and Owners’ Forum. The major topics of the three-day session were change by doing, business development, financial benchmarking, working together to solve biggest challenges and Unified Group business.
Guest speaker Jerry Jelison provided attendees with the tools necessary to create change throughout their organizations. Using the materials he has spent years analyzing, Jellison encouraged members to look at every issue from ground level as opposed to viewing the 40,000 ft level. By getting to the core of the issues, it becomes easier to not only address them, but to fix them. Also, by getting to ground level, it increases understanding between two people, each individual feels understood.
“Give them a chance to reflect on their own feelings,” said Jellison. “Let them feel understood.” Jellison also utilized a chart called the “J-Curve Model” to show the expected outcome of initiating any change. This J, similar in shape to the Nike Logo, highlighted to members that it is okay if people don’t celebrate change and start the process immediately. By understanding that change is a scary process for some, and taking the time to understand their fears, change will be able to take its course.
The group also welcomed Courtney Stearns from D. Brown Management, who came highly recommended from our Executive Committee member, Jim Blauch (Blauch Brothers). Stearns discussed business development strategies with the members on day two. His process for business development consisted of creating new business opportunities through targeted networking, education and awareness building activities. Stearns believes that individuals most invested in business development “are intentional in cross training.”
Throughout the session members shared their best ideas implemented. Members heard from each other about their most successful accomplishment this past year. Stories of boiler department start up, the impact of hiring a full time safety director, and implementing tool tracking software were amongst the many ideas shared. The goal of Best Idea Implemented is to learn from each other’s successes. “I believe there are other members that have experienced what we are going through and can help us break through” shared James Eudy (TEAM Mechanical).
On the last day of the meeting, attendees heard from the Unified Group board members about what is in the works for 2017. Samantha Nekola (The Unified Group) presented a Unified Group Website Marketing Plan for members to utilize, Janet Kelleher and Tim Smerz (The Unified Group) gave an update on the training schedule for 2017 and presented our “ 2017 Making The Difference” Award.
Special thank you to our Executive Committee and Task Force for planning and leading this session! Thank you Jim Blauch (Blauch Brothers), James Sandoval (J&J), Chris Schaff (Air Controls), and Ryan Jorgensen (MSS).