Page 4 - CMA PROfiles Fall 2019

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Getting out of the shop to network is just as wise an investment

as putting money into new equipment or technology.

When you own a small business, it’s easy to zero in on your day- Here’s what you can get out of it when you step away for an
to-day responsibilities and rarely look up to see what’s going on educational and/or networking event:
around you. • You’ll ensure that you’re up on the latest trends and styles –
which is important if you want to stay competitive.
That kind of tunnel vision keeps you from getting out of your
comfort zone to talk to other people who are dealing with the • You’ll get a chance to bounce ideas around with others in the
same challenges you’re facing. It robs you of chances to learn industry.
about things that could make a big difference in your business • You’ll develop a personal network of CMA and other
— from new product lines to new technology that might solve a professional connections — in your region or across the
problem you’ve been having. country — that will be invaluable when you’re back home
and run into a new challenge on the job, want advice on a
The cabinetry industry is evolving fast, and there are a lot of big purchase you’re considering, etc. (I’ve found that my
payoffs that come from stepping away from your shop and network can often deliver the answers I need even more
participating in industry events. quickly and effectively than a manufacturer’s customer

As you read this, you may already be running through the list service “hotline.”)
of excuses you have for staying home. I probably know them • Shop tours will send you home with great ideas about
all and have used some of them myself. The most common and organizing your space, optimizing your process and much
understandable excuses involve a lack of money or time. more. (And you might see a piece of machinery that would
be ideal for your operation.)
Sometimes it’s more about control and habit; people aren’t • You’re also likely to run into opportunities to share your
willing to shut down for a day or two or leave someone else in experience and expertise, and that’s a great thing.
charge. Others tell themselves that their shop is too small or
specialized or basic (etc., etc.) to get anything out of spending In short, getting out of the shop to network is just as wise an
money on a networking event or conference. investment as putting money into new equipment or technology.

As the owner of a small shop, I understand all of these concerns,
but I hope you’ll hear me out about why it matters to make this Chris Dehmer
happen, somehow, some way. President, Cabinet Makers Association

2 PROFILES FALL 2019