The Regional Trade Show – A Dying Breed?

Last week FabTech exhibited at the Mid Atlantic Glass Expo. We had a fantastic show. We met many good people and companies. We got solid leads for our services. I also heard that TEXpo was well attended. So, why aren’t there more of this type show around the country?

The regional show/seminar/meeting used to be a regular staple of many state and regional glass associations. It was a time to visit with old friends, suppliers, and customers. Unlike the big national shows, you had time to actually engage in long and meaningful conversations. Usually very social events, everyone seemed to have a good time as well.

So, why are the shows a dying breed? I think many of the forces that impact the viability of state associations are also at work here.

The first factor is the pace of modern living. The poor economy, increasing demands on all businesses and managers, two income households and other factors are all making our lives more demanding.

In addition, I believe many of us don’t want to take the time to be involved in associations or see enough value to commit our time and energy. It takes involved people to make an association go. The Mid Atlantic Glass Association has those folks in spades. There were more than 700 people there last week. That doesn’t happen by accident. The staff and volunteers make it happen.

So, think about your involvement in your local or state glass association. Think about what NGA, GANA, AAMA, and other groups do for our industry. (Full disclosure here for me - I am part of the architectural glazing committee of the NGA so I am a “fan” of association involvement).

Get involved. Attend the events. Join a committee. Heck, even attend a golf outing. You won’t be sorry and might even find some new business and/or some new friends.

Like many things in life, you get out what you put in.

If you want to do something today, visit the following links for an association in your area. NGA, GANA, AAMA or USGlass Magazine event schedule.

Quarter End Thoughts

As the first quarter of 2010 comes to a close, we all face a chance to take stock. Where are we now versus January versus last year versus last week?

I am constantly amazed at the differences in people’s perception of time in this industry. Try this experiment – ask 5 different people “how has business been” or “how does it look going forward?” The answers will inevitably contain a wide variety of time frames. Some will reference last year, some last month, some last week. Time horizon is very personal.

Like many business owners, I find planning and strategy to be the most important thing I do – when I take the time to do it. The everyday demands always seem to find a way to demand my time. The next truckload, the next phone call, the next quote are selfish taskmasters. They will take all your time if you let them. As Steven Covey said, try to focus on the things that are essential to your long term success and not get caught up in the everyday. His term is “important but not urgent.”

It is easier said than done. Especially in today’s tough environment, nobody can afford to ignore that customer call, that quote opportunity, that problem. So how do we step back? Here is one idea about finding a balance between PLANNING, MANAGING, AND DOING.

Good stuff – if you have the time….

Enjoy the improving weather and (hopefully) improving business conditions for all.