The Master Planner
Series: What’s the Plan?
You know you need a plan, but don’t have time to make one. But is that really enough excuse to get you by? We asked Kermit Engh, Business Coach with Methods for Management, for some inspiration to get you from where you are to where you really want to be. HINT: It takes a plan.
Why would I work for YOU?
We have a lot of strikes against us when it comes to recruiting employees. Kids don’t say they want to grow up to be dry cleaners. Even dry cleaners don’t want their kids in the industry. This month, Kevin looks at some of the reasons why people don’t want to be dry cleaners and see if you can’t beat the odds by overcoming the drawbacks.
Is Your Business Future-Proof?
While no one could predict a worldwide pandemic, proactive and future-thinking businesses were arguably the best prepared. It’s impossible to predict the future, but we can listen to our clients, read the news and participate in industry dialogue to assist us in determining where we should spend our time to future-proof our businesses. This month, Linley dives into a few examples.
There’s a New Classified Ad!
Somebody’s selling equipment in Ontario.
Might be just what you need!
Coin Laundry Association Embraces Industry Changes with New Name and Branding
The largest trade organization dedicated to the vended laundry industry is excited to announce an update to its branding, including its name. The Coin Laundry Association will now be known as simply “CLA,” with each of the three letters signifying an action that the highly respected organization makes possible for its 1500+ members (connect, learn, advocate). Additionally, its refreshed tagline, “the preeminent resource for laundry professionals”, speaks to its unwavering commitment to provide valuable and tangible resources to those members.
FIND OUT MORE IN INDUSTRY NEWS…
DLI Announces 2024-25 Board
The Drycleaning & Laundry Institute board has changed with the retirement of some members and addition of fresh ones. DLI works hard to have all areas of the US and beyond represented by board members, so check it out and see what’s changed.
DLI August Learning Opportunities
You can never stop learning, or you’ll fall behind your competitors. The Drycleaning & Laundry Institute offers a slate of in person and online opportunities to learn and August’s list is available now. There are no excuses not to take advantage of what is right in front of you!
READ IT IN CONFERENCES & EVENTS…
There’s a NEW company in the Greater Toronto Area.
CHECK IT OUT
JULY FOCUS
You only go where you plan to go
This month we are zeroing in on what sets apart those who are successful and those who fall short: PLANNING. Maybe you feel your company is too small to make a plan, or you’re just too tired after fixing that [insert comment here] press/computer/boiler/dryer one more time. On the other hand, maybe you’re successful and think you’ve got it handled. You might want to think again, either way.
TAKE OUR QUICKIE SURVEY and tell us about your plan. Just takes a minute or so, and we’ll keep your comments 100% anonymous.
JUNE FOCUS
You don’t have a company without people. And they require regular “maintenance” even more than the machines they work on. How are you doing in that area? We’ll be tuning up your people skills this month.
INSTALLMENT 1
The Anxious Employee
Do you notice someone in your plant who is dropping off in productivity, seems to be on the phone a lot, and generally looks unhappy? Signs of anxiety are easy to spot. What’s hard is figuring out what to do. “I’m no counselor!” you may say. And you’re right. That’s why there are resources to help you — and your employee — get back to feeling better.
In this installment, read of the new partnership between Anxiety Canada and TELUS health. It may be just what you’ve both been looking for. Printed in English and French.
INSTALLMENT 2 IN THE SERIES
Listen to Your Gut
Are you ready for a shock? According to Canadian statistics, workplace aggression and violence are commonplace. A survey by the International Labour Organization (ILO), Canada is fourth in the world rankings for workplace aggression.
Last month, a former employee entered a laundry and shot five people, killing 2 of them outside Philadelphia. Don’t think it can’t happen in your plant. Prepare to protect your people. They’re counting on you.
Where have All the Craftsmen Gone?
Thinking about the landscape of dry cleaning and laundry personnel, Kevin has some pointed questions about craftsmen — where they are, why they are necessary, what you can do to bring them back.
Surprise and Delight Your Employees!
We often think of ways to surprise and delight our customers, but what about the lifeblood of your organization – your team members! This month, Linley is showcasing how your employees are critical to your business’s success and giving a few simple and easy-to-implement tactics to show your employees that much-deserved appreciation.
