Our department, US corporate development, just gathered for Philly cheese steaks and to look at presentations from two of our building competitors. The presentations were brought to us by our newest department edition, Nick Kurth, Virtual Construction manager.
We entered the meeting with my stomach growling, more concerned about eating my cheesy hoagie than really thinking about how competitors present.
The first presentation left much to be desired, as the graphics reminded us of the 80’s.
The next two presentations were totally different. The main focus (in pictures) was on people, NOT projects. What? But we’re a builder? The point of the presentation was that a huge deciding factor in selecting a contractor is who you want to do business with. Do you like the people?
It was an eye-opening and very effective concept. One of the best ideas, came from a competitor’s presentation to renovate an aquatics center. They introduced a team member by showing him swimming with his family, in the very pool they were proposing to renovate! It made him much more accessible and sent the message, I am local, and I’m a part of this community.
Another great idea was the use of real images from project team meetings. The marketing coordinators set aside a day every six months to walk around the office and take action shots of team members working to use in presentations and proposals. (Photo: PCLers in Denver at a green training)
So next time you prepare a presentation for an interview, don’t forget to include our people and how we can work with their people. Having a cheese steak for inspiration doesn’t hurt either.
Co-Authored by: Nancy Candler and Stephanie Vrabel
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