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Apparently the topic of cylinder testing gone wrong struck a chord with TCP readers, who wrote back to share stories similar to the one in last month’s blog. Following are just two humorous examples.
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The National Precast Concrete Association’s (NPCA) annual Creative Use of Precast Awards are known for highlighting some of the industry’s most interesting work. This year was no different.
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It all started with the phrase, “It’s not my job,” to which customers around the globe retorted, “What do you mean it’s not your job? If you can’t help me, why are you here?”
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As uncertainty continues in the concrete market, one thing that remains constant is the use of test cylinders.
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Calls for improving America’s infrastructure are getting louder by the day.
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Two events early in my ready-mix sales career motivated me to learn all I could about the science of concrete design and placement.
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Pursuing customer satisfaction as a way to become a service leader, and therefore more profitable, is the wrong pursuit. Customer satisfaction is simply the price of entry into the game. It keeps the doors open and the employees paid, but it does not grow your business.
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Although we often look to housing starts or construction employment numbers to gauge growth in the concrete industry, many also watch another key indicator: attendance at World of Concrete.
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Early last week while working in Bentonville, Ark., I rented a car from a rental company that I use occasionally, but certainly not often. I have no loyalty to any particular one as I have been unimpressed by all of them.
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Most of the time, a ready-mix producer operates under the direction of the owner or general manager. These leaders guide the dispatch manager, who decides which customers will receive concrete on a particular workday. However, in some companies, the dispatch manager receives little guidance or...
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As many of you know, the industry’s only annual event for commercial concrete and masonry construction – World of Concrete – isn’t just for contractors.
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If you’re planning to attend World of Concrete, don’t forget to set aside some time to browse through the Las Vegas Convention Center’s North Hall — home of the show’s Producer Center.
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In December, we talked about how to set SMART goals and I promised to give you some considerations on what to stop doing and start doing to reach your goals. This article is about a few STOPS and STARTS to begin the year with a customer service focus.
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I felt a sense of optimism as I walked the aisles of The Precast Show/ICON Expo 2013 last week in Indianapolis.
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Every producer knows that operating and maintaining a ready-mix truck requires a special approach when compared to other severe-duty vehicles. A true American innovation, proper mixer operation and maintenance procedures have often been learned the hard way.
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The Concrete Producer’s 2012 Industry Influencers are...
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There was a time not so long ago when I would make New Year’s resolutions. And I did a pretty good job of keeping them. Some were easy, but others required some effort. I’m glad I accomplished them all.
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One look will tell you that TCP is updating its digital identity. Our editorial staff is changing, too.
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Have you ever considered that you appear to be exactly like your competitors? They hire the same kind of people. They teach them the same things. They deliver the same product. Most customers would be unable to articulate how your company is different, besides the signs in front of your office and...
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Customer acquisition is sexy. There is something about the hunt that gets people excited. It's kind of like dating-lots of attention, communication and messages of appreciation. Then when acquisition occurs details are forgotten, communication lags, and words of fondness are articulated less often.