What qualities do you look for in emerging leaders?
When we think about what makes a new hire who looking for growth stand out, it starts with a long-term mindset; someone who understands that it takes time and is willing to begin in entry-level roles. The best emerging leaders are teachable, approaching their work with the understanding that they don’t have all the answers and a genuine willingness to learn.
–Kent McKenzie, Director of Operations, Counter Solutions
How can companies balance tradition with innovation when developing talent?
A thriving company understands its customers’ needs and delivers in the way they expect today, not just how things were done in the past. Challenging traditional thinking is not only healthy, but also necessary. That said, you don’t abandon what made you successful. Instead, you build on it, making small, intentional adjustments and adding new touchpoints to stay relevant and continue growing.
–Tank Johnson, Vice President, Door Division
What advice would you give someone early in their career who wants to grow into a leadership role in the building materials industry?
Stay patient and put the time in at each level of your career. Some of our younger workforce is looking for instant gratification, but they need to focus on doing their job extremely well and then be ready when the next opportunity comes.
–Jeff Malloch, Vice President, Building Materials
What role does mentorship play in developing talent?
Some of the greatest lessons I have learned in not only the workplace, but in life, have come from trusted mentors. Mentorship allows for relationships to develop in a more informal less structured setting, allowing for deeper trust, which increases the effectiveness of the conversations.
–Jeff Bosma, Director, Finishing Division
What can each generation learn from the other?
The willingness to learn from others in a different generation is key. Leadership can promote this. One way I do this is by encouraging our sales veterans to informally mentor the younger sales people. Traveling together, modeling what a day to day experience looks like as an Outside Sales Rep, etc.
–Johanna Olmstead, Regional Sales Manager, Door Division
Additional Industry Articles
Residential Cabinetry Offerings by Lumbermen’s
With countless styles, materials, construction methods, and price points available, choosing the right cabinetry can sometimes feel overwhelming. For homeowners, the decision often balances aesthetics, durability, and budget.
Top Dealers Recognized for Cabinet Sales
Last month, following our annual Product Fair, we hosted a special event to celebrate our top-performing dealers at The Atrium at Uccello’s in downtown Grand Rapids.
Making Safety Personal: Lumbermen’s Winter Safety Challenge
This winter, Lumbermen’s launched a Winter Safety Challenge designed to help employee owners reconnect with their personal “why” for working safely.
Lessons From the Show Floor: Rethinking Marketing in the New Year
Fresh conversations at our Product Fair revealed a few surprising marketing lessons. One simple mindset shift could change your results.
Deck the Door with Care: 5 Holiday Decorating Tips
The holidays are the perfect time to add warmth and cheer to your home’s exterior. But before you hang that wreath or wrap your garland, it’s important to make sure your décor won’t harm your door’s finish. These tips will help you create a festive look, without leaving a mark.
A Dealer’s Guide to Getting Found Online: Understanding SEO
A quick, plain-English guide to SEO basics that help your business show up in search and turn clicks into calls and quotes.