My first real job working with people was in the fast food industry during high school. Let’s just say it took me a while to really catch on.
Since my previous employment had involved delivering hay and straw with my grandfather and then mucking out horse stalls for the stable down the road – sort of the “cradle-to-the-grave” scenario in the grain industry – I quickly learned the art of throwing around my share of…
But I digress.
What I learned from fast food, on the other hand, is this: be polite and pay attention. Customers are coming at you fast and furious and if you don’t give them what they want, a long day will get that much longer that much quicker.
Of course, as professionals in the engine building, machine shop and parts distribution industy, I’m not really telling you anything new.
That’s what I’m hoping you’ll tell me.
Every year I ask my team of writers – both in-house editors here in Akron, OH, as well as our contributors across the country – what topics we should be covering in our next year’s editorial package. Invariably, they have great ideas and we always find more than enough subject matter.
This year, I’d like to expand the opportunity to you, the readers to influence the articles in our August 2019 issue. It’s your turn to take over the pages of Engine Builder magazine.
Well, I’m not really asking you to do the work, just help us help you. Here’s what I’m asking: If an industry expert offered to answer one question for you, what would your question be (and before things get too crazy, let’s limit it to a question about engine parts, machining, assembly or shop operation). Is there a particular topic you’ve always hoped would be addressed but we’ve never covered? Now is your chance to get it on the record!
Over the next few months, you’ll have the opportunity to submit your ideas to us at Engine Builder via email, snail mail, voicemail, social media or even fax. Then, we’ll look at all of the suggestions to decide what topic got the most suggestions, what makes the most sense or even what made us laugh hardest. There’s no sense doing this job if you can’t have a little fun, too.
Savvy readers will recognize that this isn’t the first time I’ve asked for your opinion. I frequently implore you to tell us how we’re doing and where we can improve. In this case I’m not trying to be vague – what are real topics of interest that would help you be more efficient, more profitable and more successful?
And if you have an idea for an article that you would like to write, let me know that as well. Have you come up with a great business model that helps you thrive in a challenging location? Is your business better off now than it was thanks to some innovation you’ve incorporated? Is there a market that’s booming and you want the industry to know about it?
They say a rising tide lifts all ships. We value your opinion and know that you have ideas and real-world experience that can benefit a wide range of Engine Builder readers.
As I’m sure you’ve recognized over the years, Engine Builder exists for – and becaue of – you. We’re here to pay attention to your needs and, ultimately,
fill your order to perfection.
I look forward to hearing your ideas! ν
