By Dean Landers, Landers Appliance
Have you ever had your mind blown? Think of a time when you were so totally blown away with the info you were receiving and how it could positively and dramatically impact your business and/or personal life? his year’s Appliance Service Training Institute (ASTI) 2016 was just another of the many that have created that scenario for me. If you have never been to an industry convention than you would be hard pressed to understand the energy and excitement surrounding such an event. Those in attendance very often become repeat attenders because it can be so powerful in the life of their business.
How can I make that kind of a statement? Well, I’ve attended every major national convention at least once over the last 30 years, and most multiple times. It is an amazing experience to be surrounded by so many people, all related to the appliance service industry. ASTI 2016 included over 550 attendees! Think about it! Fellow business owners of large, medium and small service companies, parts distributors, manufacturers trainers, TPA representatives, software developers, tech training school rep’s, vendors and suppliers of everything centered around appliance repair, all gathered together sharing ideas and information!
How many places can you go to rub shoulders with the president and CEO of Dacor (Charles Huebner), speak with the national service managers of Whirlpool, Sub Zero, Electrolux, Dacor, True, and others, trade and discuss best practices with other business owners, review and discuss Business Management Software with the actual developers and their trainers, speak with the developer and author of the Blue Book (:>), learn tips and tricks on repairing various brands of appliances, etc., etc.?
As I have told many a new attendees, the large variety of classes in and of themselves are fantastic and worth the costs to attend. But the informal discussions during breakfasts, lunches and hospitality events are priceless! I remember learning a very valuable lesson many years ago. It was simply to make sure I am spending time on developing my business and not just in running my business day to day. This is not a trite statement and it should not be dismissed without serious thought and consideration.
Look at the long list of class offerings (both technical and business), the vendors, suppliers, and supporters. Write in your calendar the dates (2/8 – 2/11/17) for next year’s ASTI 2017 to be held in San Diego, CA. Send in your early bird registration and make plans now to attend. You will not be disappointed!
Dean Landers
President, Landers Appliance, Inc. Baltimore
Author and developer of the Blue Book
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