 Expand your support network, expand your potential
MCI works hard to make sure its support network is the best in the business. From our service centers and Emergency Roadside Assistance to our product support specialists, training and marketing support, we excel at making our customers' businesses run smoother. But we can't be everywhere. Here are a few suggestions on making the most of your external network.
Make friends with your engine dealer
Engine dealerships associated with Caterpillar, Cummins and Detroit Diesel can be invaluable sources for service and advice, both home and away, especially if you're far from an MCI Service Center. By establishing a relationship, or at least keeping on top of company news, you can develop a deeper understanding of the systems that make your coach work and stay on top of the latest trends.
Change for a "20" group
Found across all areas of business, 20 groups typically include a number of non-competing business owners that come together to share information and sometimes even leads. The United Motorcoach Association has its own 20-group program, and it's worked out well for many operators. Gladys Gillis, co-owner of Seattle's Starline Luxury Coaches, says she appreciates the peer evaluation, appraisals and comparison charts provided to Starline as part of the UMA 20 Group. "Everyone in the group is measuring the same things, and that lets us see where we stand and where can improve our profit potential. The group has helped us be more successful," says Gillis.
Coach operators may want to look beyond UMA as well. A quick search of the Internet should reveal plenty of networking groups that are locally based. Better yet, ask around. Friends and associates may be happy to recommend a lead-sharing group. Such groups can outright bring new business, and their very structure encourages lasting business relationships.
Make the association
UMA. ABA. IMG. FMCA. OMCA. You know most of the acronyms, but are you taking the letters seriously? Most operators belong to at least a couple of organizations, but the really successful ones get involved. Says Callan Hotard, owner of Calco Travel, "It's important to form relationships by being active." Of those who merely sit back, he says, "They’re really missing out."
To form deeper bonds within the industry, you may want to join committees, contribute to projects and "give back" to the motor coach community. And speaking of community, your local chamber of commerce and other city and regional associations can offer a wealth of opportunity as well.
Make the effort
The motor coach industry is rife with good karma. Stories abound about how operators have lent each other coaches, offered parking space in a pinch, or sent mechanics out to help a neighbor in distress. By being one of the good guys, you're more likely to get the red-carpet treatment when you need it in turn.
Meet more people
You never know who might make a good contact in the future. Entrepreneur.com has some tips for working trade shows, and most of them are pretty easy. In an article on the website, author Jane Applegate suggests chatting up people while stuck in line for buffets, and making sure to never miss a group meal, party or other organization-wide event.
And that's something we can all get on board with.
The FYI from MCI editorial staff values your feedback. Please e-mail any suggestions, comments, or ideas for future articles to fyi@mcicoach.com. |
