It is a delight to follow the progress of a booming firm, in this case Glasbest. This small company specializes in the development of dressings, tapenades, mayonnaises, etc. On occasion I organize training sessions for that firm. The training is geared to the evolution of the company. In addition I coach some of the management team.
During the visit I learn of the impressive sales volume. The business plan expectations have been surpassed. The growth of the number of customers and the list of products in such a short time are awe inspiring. Hearing of anecdotal experiences at trade fairs bring a smile to my face. I admire the entrepreneurial spirit and I get swept up in the collaborative and positive attitude. The state of the art production line and its efficiency are impressive.
We breeze past the planning department and follow the raw product passing through bottling, capping, labelling and packing. The place teems with folks dressed in white coats, heads covered in hairnets. The noise level is substantial amidst steam, conveyor belts and die cutting equipment. Then back to the business at hand. We compare the previously set targets with the personal goals achieved. I moderate the discussion. The review may be very positive, though at times the objectives are overshadowed by the pressures of the day. However, the level of commitment is beyond doubt. This is rewarding. Next we address the direct correlation between the pressure we work under and business growth. We cover topics such as the sharing of knowledge, job replacement and fatigue. The need for expansion is obvious. Question is, where, who and how? We discuss expectations, priorities and urgencies. I then recap the desired management team objectives.
On my way home, I reflect on the growth, the bright future, the cohesion and the new challenges ahead. I feel a sense of contentment in my chosen vocation as business coach.
