Embracing Creativity for a Competitive Edge

The idea of creativity in our thoughts and perspectives is an essential competitive advantage. This advantage requires thinking, listening, and communicating as advocates for a great place to work. It happens when customers, team members, and vendors are served better today than ever before.

Innovation Through Listening and Collaboration

Sometimes, we adopt a common practice or process and develop a better way. Other times, we start with a fresh slate or new canvas. New faces and contributors are crucial to this process. More listeners and contributors are needed to bring different perspectives and experiences. These diverse insights are invaluable.

A Case Study in Creative Problem-Solving

Ten years ago, we spent a summer working with an intern at Vermeer Corp in Pella. The objective was to develop a footprint study for the aftermarket business that could benefit from a new location in Little Rock. We aimed to determine how Vermeer MidSouth's parts, service, and rental business could thrive with this expansion. This study included not only Vermeer equipment but also our competitors' fleets. It encompassed retail values for parts, improved rentals, and substantial growth in our service revenue.

This project was a learning experience that brought different perspectives together. Starting with a fresh slate, we pulled in potential customers to gain an optimistic outlook on why relocating made the most sense. This move facilitated better relationships and service accessibility for our customers.

Today, the Little Rock location has seen significant growth. Customers have given us more opportunities to serve them, and we appreciate the enhanced service accessibility.

The Path Forward: Innovation and Curiosity

What new, hard-to-reach prospective customers could benefit from a culture of innovation to win them over to Vermeer MidSouth? What can we learn that has not been discovered before? Our values of integrity, hard work, service, and reward for customers, vendors, and team members can benefit from our creativity.

What changes await us as our business landscape continues to evolve? Can we ignite the flame of curiosity and maintain a growth mindset?

Gary Vermeer often said, "There has to be a better way." This mindset drives us to seek improvement and innovation continually.

Inspiring Quotes to Fuel Our Creativity

“The one thing that you have that nobody else has is you. Your voice, your mind, your story, your vision. So, write, draw, build, play, dance, and live only as you can.” — Neil Gaiman, English author

“Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.” — Solomon in Proverbs 22:29

“Creativity comes from a conflict of ideas.” — Donatella Versace, Italian designer and businesswoman

Have a great and creative sales week!