Defining moments. We all experience them. They’re instances where the decisions we make and actions we take have a long-lasting impact. There is no way of knowing which situations will help define our lives or careers; they often call for quick decisions or immediate action. They’re about how we respond to a given problem or opportunity, and they reveal much about who we are and what we’ll become.
The folks at Valentine Plumbing & Sewer in Cortland, Ill., profiled in this issue of Cleaner, know a thing or two about defining moments. Bruce Foster had been in business for 30 years when he took on a new business partner, Tom Bowman, in 2009. Together they formed Valentine Plumbing, focused on cured-in-place pipe repair.
Foster was also teaching continuing education classes at the time, and his business was winding down. The decision to take on a partner had a huge impact and redefined the business. In the few short years since he and Bowman joined forces, their business has grown tremendously. If Bowman hadn’t taken the chance, Valentine Plumbing would be a much different company.
Fletcher Sewer & Drain of Ludlow, Mass., also profiled in this issue, is another great example of embracing opportunity and allowing success to define the business. Company president Teri Marinello cites two defining periods in her company’s history. The first came after a call to find a ring that had been lost down the drain. The call demonstrated the importance of new technology and led to the realization that each service van needed an inspection camera. That, in turn, opened up opportunities for expansion.
The second period began with customers asking for higher-level video inspection. In response, the company added a fully equipped CCTV van, began performing mainline sewer inspections for a wide range of projects, and built a larger client base. It was a major expenditure, but it was the right move, and the company hasn’t looked back.
The thing about defining moments is you never know when they will present themselves, and you might not realize the significance until well after the fact. That’s why it’s critical to follow proper protocols, conduct business in a professional manner and make sure the job is done right the first time, all the time.
It may just be that the nice old woman you go out of your way to help gives your name to her son, who manages several large apartment complexes and is looking to sign a service agreement with a new contractor.
The defining moment may come when you have to decide whether to take a risk and add a combination truck to go after larger municipal contracts. Or it could be in how you respond to a natural disaster in your community. It could turn out to be one of many decisions you make on a daily basis. That’s why it’s important to always to keep an eye on the future.
I hope these stories can help inspire the next phase of your business.
Good luck, and enjoy this month’s issue.
