Newly honored branch managers offer advice on team leadership, creating healthy company culture

Earlier this year, we proudly welcomed 83 branch managers into the Managing Partner Program at ABC Supply — the highest honor for branch managers in the company.

This is the largest incoming class in the history of ABC Supply, a feat representative of the outstanding leadership and performance demonstrated by branch managers throughout the company.

“These individuals have proven to be exceptional leaders who are dedicated to their associates and customers,” said Mike Jost, ABC Supply’s chief operating officer. “Their expertise, drive and hard work have had a significant impact on our company’s growth, and we are excited to see how they help shape the future success of ABC Supply and the contractors we serve.”

The new managing partners have demonstrated their ability not only to deliver the products and services that make our customers successful, but also to effectively lead a team. We asked them to share some of their best leadership tips that are sure to drive value for any team in the construction industry and beyond.

Foster a Positive Work Environment

• Creating an atmosphere in which people are excited to work will get the most out of your associates.
• Maintain a positive attitude throughout both wins and losses. Keeping your composure is a major component of establishing a healthy culture.
• Do little things to keep your associates’ spirits high. Whether it’s bringing in coffee or rewarding them with a piece of company swag, a small gesture can go a long way.
• Embody the culture you want to see. As a manager, associates will look to you for guidance and often reflect your mindset and behavior.

“Live the culture you desire at your location every day. Everyone will feed off the attitude the manager shows.” – Matt Wentzel (Davenport, IA)

Learn More About Your Associates

• Putting your associates in position to utilize their unique strengths makes them feel valued and benefits the whole team.
• Learning about your associates’ lives outside of work helps build trust and lets them know they’re more than just an employee.

“Engage everyone each day, and really take the time to get to know them on a personal level.” – Jason Kayser (Hicksville, New York)

Prioritize Clear and Consistent Communication

• Take a few minutes every day to talk with each of your associates. Consistent communication keeps your team on the same page.
• There’s more to communicating effectively than just speaking clearly — the best leaders also know how and when to listen.
• You won’t always have the answers to someone’s problems, but sometimes simply being a sounding board can help them process and find solutions.

“Listen! If you have built the trust, your team will come to you with both the good and the bad.” – Rob Ayres (Herculaneum, Missouri)

Keep Your Team Motivated

• Setting goals can make long-term and abstract projects feel more concrete. By setting a tangible objective, your team can more easily visualize where you need to go — and do what it takes to get there.
• Tapping into your associates’ competitive spirit can go a long way. Look for ways to inspire friendly competition while keeping the overall focus on success as a team.
• Celebrate your team’s accomplishments. While there’s always another goal to achieve, taking a moment to celebrate makes your team feel valued and appreciated.

“It all starts with setting goals. People are naturally motivated when they know what they’re striving for.” – Tyler Killmer (Nampa, Idaho)

 Hold Each Other Accountable

• Holding everyone — including yourself — to the same standards shows nobody is “above” anyone else.
• Clearly communicate expectations and follow up on whether those expectations were met or not met.
• Follow through on your promises. Actions speak louder than words, so make sure yours hold up.

“Always make sure you lead by example. If you set a rule, that rule needs to be kept for everyone — including yourself.”  – Vickie Longo (Lubbock, Texas)

We’re proud to welcome our newest managing partners! Their leadership skills, business smarts and tenacity continue to deliver results to our associates and customers, and we hope you can take some of their tips to do the same for your business.

Those interested in exploring career opportunities at ABC Supply, including driver, material handler and sales and management positions, can visit careers.abcsupply.com.