From A Metal Fabricators Perspective

Guest post by Mike Bowlby of Mack Hils Metal Fabrication

Metal fabrication shops can get bombarded at any moment with orders from customers, ranging in complexity and size. The difficult part for managers is managing worker stress levels and morale, while keeping customers 100% satisfied. Even more difficult is predicting when the busiest times will occur because they could happen at any moment and at any capacity. The best things managers can do are plan for the worst situations and expect the best results.

The Busy Times

The busiest times of the year vary from fabricator to fabricator. It depends on a metal fabricator’s customer base, the products they produce and the markets their customers are in. If a metal fabricator knows its customers well, then they should at least have a little understanding of what to expect. In order to stay on top of demand, reduce stress and stay prepared, some fabricators might find it beneficial to stay up-to-date with their customers’ markets; follow trends and predict them as much as one can. Maybe even establish relationships with other metal fabricators to share knowledge of seasonal demands and such.

The busy times also vary as a result of government actions and lack thereof that have drastic effects on the US economy. For instance, World War II created a boom for economic development due to manufacturing demands. Similar cases could occur that require manufacturers and fabricators to increase their production activities. On the other hand recessions can create deficits in demand.

Manage Workers’ Stress

Handling workers’ stress is a function of good management and leadership. Managers must communicate with their employees on a regular basis. This gives them a sense of preparation and an understanding of what to expect. If employees know what is expected of them and these expectations are clearly communicated the result is a lack of stress, a calm work environment, a better-finished product and a happier client.

Keep the Morale High

Managing workers’ stress levels is important, but so is keeping their morale high. The better condition a work environment is and the happier employees are, the more focused they will be resulting in a better work performance. There are a number of things managers and team leaders can do to keep the morale high, including hosting company barbeques, providing bonuses to those performing at high levels, and interacting with employees on a daily basis. This lets them know they are important and when someone gets recognition for their work, they work even harder and exude a positive attitude.

But First, Keep the Customers Happy

First and foremost a company must keep customers happy by delivering their products on time with good quality. Although employee morale and stress levels are very important to managers and team leaders, there is pressure to perform and produce quality products to keep customers happy. As long as all employees understand the importance of every order, they will have a better understanding of how important it is to work together to get the job done.

Mike Bowlby is the owner of Mack Hils Metal Fabrication, a Midwest metal fabrication shop focusing on short lead times, happy customers and quality products.