When you get down to it, anything of substance is the sum total of the effort put into it.
I know there are countless analogies, musings and quotes for just about everything and every occasion. One very simple one that encompasses most things in life -- and one I personally subscribe to -- is the notion that “you only get out of something what you put into it.”
For example, you do not automatically lose weight or get in shape by joining a gym. You need to put in the sweat effort.
Or, you do not automatically learn to cook by signing up for a cooking class. You must attend the classes, pay attention, and turn the oven on.
And then there is one of my favorites: You do not automatically become a better golfer by just taking some lessons. You must get out on the course and play (at a minimum 18-holes twice a week...but that's the subject of an entirely different column).
So the point I'm trying to make is that you do not automatically improve your business, become more educated, reduce risk, better provide for your clients, help change laws, and become a better risk for the insurance companies by joining the ASCA.
You must get involved and become active.
The ASCA is happy to lead that charge, and is thrilled to have many very active members. These members have taken it upon themselves to do those things necessary to improve their businesses and the professional snow and ice management industry as a whole.
We are making quick progress, and we are doing so because of the active participation of our membership. They have made it their responsibility to initiate change for the industry.
With the ASCA, change begins with education. It is members' responsibility to take advantage of the association's educational resources and become ASCA Certified (ASCA-C). Hundreds of snow and ice professionals have already done so.
The next step is practicing those things that have been learned. For example, implementing improved risk management processes so your company becomes better.
Industry leading companies have now undertaken the next step and are pursuing ISO certification. It's a bold statement to their customers, colleagues and competitors that they have an ongoing commitment to improvement.
Everyone wants legislative change, and the ASCA continues to lead the way on these matters. We have held legislative days at the federal and a number of state levels this year. However, these on-going efforts are only successful with membership support. You must get involved.
In the end, those companies taking an active interest, learning, practicing and leading are positioning themselves to succeed.
This comes down to everything we do for our members…including the insurance program. Everything works together. The value you get out of the ASCA is in direct proportion to effort you put into it.
Now, about improving our golf game….
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