The Value of Knowledge Kaukauna WI

In the past, I've used this space to talk about the future, changes and the importance of becoming an expert. Aside from changing business models, changing inventories or launching a unique marketing campaign — how do distributors differentiate themselves from their competitors? In a word, education; and this month's Distributor Profile, pg. 12, features a company that did just that — differentiated itself from its competitors with an educational program.

One definition of education describes education as the act or process of imparting or acquiring particular knowledge or skills for a profession.

For some, gaining an education may end with a high school diploma, while for others it includes going beyond high school to earn a bachelor's degree or certification from a trade school. After all, I think it can be generally agreed upon that the more education a person achieves, the higher their wages will be.

Regardless of whether you stopped your education at high school or in a post-secondary institution, education doesn't end after formal schooling. And just like death and taxes, education (and training) is truly non-ending. For you, being a distributor in the jan/san industry means there's a plethora of knowledge to acquire and share.

I once read, "the value of an education is not what you learn, but how you learn it." It's the skills you learn, not the information that is often most crucial to future success.

Whether its on-the-job training or in a classroom setting, the value of knowledge and information is priceless. Based on that knowledge, what's the value you provide to your customers?

Featured in this month's issue, Central Sanitary Supply recognized the value of training — specifically, the training of their customers AND noncustomers. Knowledge is power.

Whether you've been in the industry for 20, 30 or even 40 years, there is always an opportunity to learn something new. Technologies are advancing to the point that the way you and your father had previously performed a job, may have become easier — making you more efficient in your day-to-day responsibilities.

Training programs are out there. Ask any manufacturer's representative, chances are, there is some program available to help you sell more product and gain valuable insight for your end-user customer. Not only will you learn something, but you will also become a valuable asset to your customer.

Take advantage of those opportunities and offer your newly acquired knowledge to your end-user customer. Not only will you become more valuable to your customer, but you'll begin earning a reputation for being an expert which will ultimately yield increased business.

Education and training are everything. If you're not learning a new set of skills, you're running with the pack, not leading it.