Things Learned in Manufacturing From the Factory Floor to the Boardroom

Bonnie Spencer Swayze, president and CEO of Alliance Rubber Co., gives her take on what she learned in manufacturing following several decades in the field. She worked her way up from an entry-level job as a teenager to a CEO of the firm her father founded and developed. Swayze's tips offer insight and advice to anyone seeking a career in manufacturing, particularly as part of a sales and leadership team.

Never Stop Learning

Education doesn't stop after you graduate from school, Swayze writes. She learned in manufacturing that technology necessitates a drive to always learn about new processes, fabrication techniques, supply chains, development of products and collaboration software. Look for opportunities to expand your education through online classes, conferences, workshops, or company training.

Help Others

Create a positive work environment by helping others. This is especially important for sales and leadership teams. If you see a new hire, introduce him to everyone on the floor or in the office. If you feel so inclined, serve as an informal mentor for the new person. Swayze learned in manufacturing that even a little nudge can inspire great leaders.

Know What You Sell

Know your products better than anyone. Learn how each product works and exactly why people need it. If your products are American-made, let consumers know, as this adds value to the item. Make people feel comfortable about a company's commitment to quality, as those become selling points on top of the products themselves.

Collaborate and Innovate

In manufacturing, collaboration and innovation go hand in hand. Swayze learned in manufacturing that you must surround yourself with people who know what's going on and how to get things done. If you're a leader in the field or a high-powered CEO, you likely didn't get to that level by yourself. You must rely on people who understand your vision and can help you make that vision a reality. Swayze credits her 180 employees for her success and the success of the company. A great team also helps a business develop long-lasting traditions.

With great teamwork comes fantastic opportunities for innovation. Develop new ways of doing things using technology such as wireless devices or data analysis software to make your manufacturing processes more efficient. It's also a good idea to make your products as affordable as possible. One of the main reasons Alliance Rubber remains in business after nearly a century is due to the innovation that continues on a regular basis.

Stay Flexible

Finally, Swayze learned in manufacturing that you must always leave room for improvement. Companies should adapt to changes as much as possible, since manufacturers that don't adapt generally lose ground and market share.

Swayze's many decades with her father's firm means much of her business acumen comes from what she learned in manufacturing. Her lessons are as relevant in 2017 as they were when she was teenager just starting at her father's company.

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