Team Blue Celebrates “Honk Your Own Horn Week”

Team Blue Members anonymously submitted paragraphs on who motivates them the most within the company. The spirit of Team Blue really shines through when reading these responses. The energy, hard work and dedication from each and every team member is a testament to what makes our company better! Take a read…

Who motivates me well I would have to say Steve Herriges, he helps u hit desired deadlines even ones that seem impossible and always has an uplifting comment no matter what the situation! Lead by example!
I would have to say that you Joel, motivate me the most. Just seeing your passion and enthusiasm is a great motivator for me. When something comes up, as they sometimes do, I never see you waver or wilt for the stress/pressure. You are ALWAYS the consummate professional in every situation I see you in. You find out what the issue is and provide the solution. There is no finger pointing, hollering, or insulting from you. You just motivate all of us to find the solution and make it happen. Thank you for that!
Who motivates me the most is Albert. From day one you could see his passion not only for his job but for his employee’s and their families. There isn’t anything he would ask you to do that he wouldn’t do himself. And now Joel is following in his footsteps.
Everybody at CBS,BBS,KBS, DREXEL motivates me. A lot of hard work from everybody and everybody has an open mind for change to make things better for all.
Alana Smith. Since I have been here… I sincerely believe Alana is by far the best motivator here… which is displayed by example… daily. Alana comes in every day smiling… with the freshest attitude… which far exceeds everyone else here. Her smile is a sign of what she is feeling on the inside and it shows to everyone else within our building. The tone of her voice… her willingness to help anyone at any time regardless of what is on her plate… is always sincere. She assists customers in flooring if she can… people wandering around the floor… she never lets anyone walk by without saying hello… and asking if they need help. She does not point them in a direction… she physically walks them to someone and introduces the person. Even when she is swamped with her own work and you ask her to help with some trivial computer or printer issue… she never scoffs… or looks disgruntled… she smiles… and offers to assist you immediately. Even when some of her co-workers (who will go un-named) are short or rude to her because they are technically challenged or just impatient… she still accepts with a smile… and helps. Her attitude… her personality… and her heart… are genuine… and I am fairly sure it would be impossible for her to hide it even if she tried. Even when I come in here some mornings and am dragging a bit… if see her… she smiles immediately and it just perks me up… and if I don’t see her… I can hear her laugh… and it just lightens up the room. It is contagious… to us… and to her clients. If we were all a bit more like her… we would all be a bit better off.
Jake Junk motivates me……as I move along in my career I have at times become complacent in my job. As the years have gone on I have felt that this would always be my job and no one could ever do it as good as I could. Jake has reminded me to always stay hungry. He is in the stage of his life where he is busting it as he tries to work up the ladder of this company. He has made me become more hungry again and push myself to come up with new ideas, thoughts and efficiencies. Jake has been the best assistant I have ever worked with, not because he is the hardest worker but because he never thinks twice about pushing me to be better. And the best part is he has a great time doing it and that makes me have so much more fun.
Who motivates me? Bob Westphal is actually a great motivator to me. Why? Because Bob will take any order or any project on without complaining about it. He is a fountain of knowledge, and it seems all of the “Weird stuff” funnels right to him, and he accepts the challenges with a good attitude. If you need help, you better believe Bob will be the first one to offer assistance. When there is a customer service call, odd’s are real good that you will hear Bob’s voice pick up the line, even though I’m sure he was in the middle of one of those many tasks assigned to him. I am pleased to have him as one of the many great players on my team.
Eric Beck: I haven’t work in the yard for many years now, but I still miss his passion. He comes to work every day and truly does a great job. He is a true leader and knows how to take care of his workers. He may be the yard foreman but he is a true team leader in my eyes. The most important trait he possess is having FUN, and he incorporates that into his everyday duties.
Honestly, I motivate myself to be as fast and precise as I can be. I know that a lot of the company depends on what I do. If plans are not completed in a timely manner, projects get delayed and contractors may not meet deadlines to customers. I strive on making sure my lead time on plans is as short as possible, a week or less if at all possible. I am motivated and determined to get plans done when I promise they will be done. I have not had too many instances in my career where I did not meet the deadline I promised to a contractor. If I have to stay late or come in early, I do it to make sure I deliver. Sometimes I wonder why I put myself in some positions where I over promise, but I like keeping everyone happy. Sometimes it is hard to stay focused when the day gets hectic, but I always know that I have to keep at it or I won’t be able to deliver what I promised.
The Wind beneath My Wings: The person who most inspires me within the company is Keith Batenhorst. The level of detail that Keith puts into everything that he touches is unmatched by anyone. Even when things don’t go well with no fault to him, he always says I should have done more. Keith is knowledgeable, professional, funny, and has a great work ethic. I believe if you showed Keith how to do brain surgery a few times he would be able to perform all the tasks without any other formal training. He is a pleasure to work with and with his help I have no doubt that my sales will increase in his department.
There are 3 groups of people/persons who motivate me at cbs. Steve Herriges – easily the person I look up to the most. Honestly don’t lean on him enough. There isn’t a more level-headed and calm person in our company. When an issue arises Steve is exactly the type of person I’d want in my camp. You know he’s always going to analyze things and give you a clear well thought out solution. With as any responsibilities as he has he also is the first one to answer customer service or help at the counter. Paul Reis – I want to improve myself to get to his level of negotiation. He’s a numbers guy and always fights for every penny he can get. He does a great job of playing devil’s advocate on any buying situations which is a great tool to use to decide if a decision is the correct one. He has clear defined goals and structure he uses to get there. When I find my processes getting sloppy it’s usually something Paul Reis does to remind me to clean it up. The yard crew – probably isn’t a more unappreciated group of people that I’ve been around. Winter roads, sloppy jobsites/terrain, extremely heavy windows/doors, and incredibly long hours. These guys deal with it all and drop everything to get the salesmen out of jams rarely without so much as a thank you. I worked in the yard, I know how much some deliveries suck. Many times you’ll arrive at a jobsite with two more stops yet you have to somehow hand load a pile of lumber returns onto an already full truck! I’ve never once heard a yard member complain, I think that says something about this company and our attitude.
I am not trying to come off as arrogant or cocky, and I truly recognize and appreciate the great teamwork that goes on at CBS. That being said, the person that motivates me the most is myself. I’ve always taken great pride in my work and take that extra step to make things right and easier for my co-workers. I want to be sure that if a mistake is made, it is fixed and we learn from it, and it won’t happen again. I enjoy the feeling of knowing a job has been well done and seeing the results when you drive by someone’s new “dream home”. I’m proud to see our trucks on the road and our signs in front of a construction site. I’m pretty sure many of TEAM BLUE feels the same way and that is what continues to make us successful.
Kurt Dulmes motivates me every day. Kurt has a passion for what he does and nothing is going to stand in his way. He is a hard worker and continues to push himself to be better. He doesn’t let problems bog him down, he pushes through with a positive attitude. Kurt’s positive energy feeds our entire team and motivates me to do my job better.
WHO MOTIVATES ME THE MOST? WELL, THAT DEPENDS ON WHAT DAY IT IS. ONE DAY IT IS OUR DELIVERY DRIVERS LIKE ANDY OR BEEF OR ROSIE, LETS BE HONEST,SOMETIMES THEIR JOB IS PRETTY THANK-LESS. ALL OF THEM TAKE THEIR JOB VERY SERIOUSLY AND WITH A LOT OF PRIDE…….VERY OFTEN WE GET POSITIVE COMMENTS FROM CUSTOMERS ON THEM. THE NEXT DAY IT MAYBE……JUDY, TALK ABOUT A THANK-LESS JOB, CALLING PEOPLE AND ASKING THEM TO PAY THEIR BILLS, AND VERY OFTEN GETTING VERBALLY ABUSED IN THE PROCESS, DAMN GLAD I DON’T HAVE TO DO THAT!!! THE NEXT DAY IT IS OUR OUTSIDE SALES GUYS WITH THAT PHONE GLUED TO THEIR EAR, JUST GO-GO-GO!! THE NEXT DAY, IS IT MIKE JOHNSON? COMING BACK TO WORK AFTER HIS KIDS GO TO BED TO GET 2 HOURS OF “QUIET TIME” TO GET A LITTLE AHEAD OF THE GAME. MIKE MILLER, ALWAYS WILLING TO HELP ME OUT WITH QUESTIONS AND ADVICE. NOT SINGLING THESE PEOPLE OUT…….BUT I COULD GO ON AND ON, PLUGGING IN A DIFFERENT NAME WITH AN EXAMPLE OF THEIR HARD WORK AND DEDICATION. SOMEDAYS IT IS JOEL……HIS NEVER-ENDING MOTIVATIONAL E-MAILS THAT ARE SENT OUT COMPANY WIDE. ALBERT……..TALK ABOUT A PASSIONATE INDIVIDUAL!!!! GO TO CBS OR BBS OR DREXEL, SAME THING, DIFFERENT PERSON’S NAME TO ATTACH TO IT. TO SUM IT UP, THE “TEAM” MOTIVATES ME, THIS IS A COLLECTION OF PEOPLE THAT CARE ABOUT WHAT THEY DO AND HOW THEY DO IT. TRUST ME, I’VE BEEN AROUND A LITTLE BIT……………………YOU SIMPLY DON’T SEE THIS OUT THERE IN THE WORK PLACE, FROM TOP TO BOTTOM. THE PASSION AND DEDICATION FROM EVERY SINGLE ONE OF OUR EMPLOYEES IS SECOND TO NONE. THAT IS EXACTLY THE REASON WE ARE WHERE WE ARE IN THIS INDUSTRY, IN A VERY CHALLENGING ECONOMY TO BOOT. GLAD TO BE HERE AND HAPPY TO BE PART OF IT!!!
Kurt Dulmes motivates me the most at KBS. No matter what time of day…if it is 6:00 a.m. or 5:00 p.m. he is always in a good mood. He has a smile on his face all the time. Seeing that can only make another person smile the same. No matter what the situation is or who the contractor may be it seems that Kurt makes a positive outcome on the issue and blocks out any negative thoughts. He has a great handle on how to control what is in his hands on a daily basis, and still stays positive about his job no matter what he is in for. One last thing…if ALL of our road salespersonal would smile and be as happy as Kurt always is, the sun would always be shining in Kiel, seeing Kurt always smiling and happy can only perk up the rest of the employees around him and keep everyone positive.
WHO MOTIVATES ME THE MOST AT OUR COMPANY AND WHY? AFTER GIVING THIS QUESTION A LOT OF THOUGHT AND SEEING THERE ARE SO MANY ASSOCIATES DESERVING OF THAT TITLE, IN ALL MY YEARS I HAVE YET TO SEE A COMPANY LIKE OURS WHERE EVERYONE IS SO MOTIVATED TO HELP OUR CUSTOMERS AND FELLOW ASSOCIATES. THAT BEING SAID: THE ASSOCIATE THAT STANDS OUT IN MY MIND WOULD BE “JUDY EHLENBECK”. THROUGH THE YEARS JUDY HAS GIVEN MORE THAN ANYONE COULD ASK. EVERY MORNING SHE WILL MEET YOU WITH HER FRIENDLY SMILE AND ENERGETIC GREETING. HER ATTRIBUTES THAT MOTIVATES, ME ARE THE ORGANIZATIONIAL SKILLS AND THE ABILITY TO PREFORM TASK ON TIME AND IN A PROFESSIONAL MANNER. SHE HELPS IN KEEPING THE STORE VERY CLEAN AND HER WORK PLACE IS ALWAYS NEET. THE RELATIONSHIP SHE HAS WITH OUR CLIENTS IS UNMATCHED. JUDY IS A VERY CARING PERSON, WITCH EVERYONE PICKS UP ON, BUT DEMANDING WHEN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES COME INTO PLAY. ALSO HER ABILITY TO ADD HER OWN TOUCHES TO MAKE A GOOD PROJECT GREAT. THERE ADE MANY MORE THINGS SHE DOES EVERYDAY TO MAKE ME A BETTER PERSON, AND TO MOTOVATE ME TO BE A BETTER ASSOCIATE.
Who motivates me and why. Steve Herriges – first, please replace my name with Steve’s for the drawing. Steve has never backed down from any challenge or duty placed in front of him. Steve doesn’t look for an exit strategy; Steve just goes 100% at the task at hand. His expertise seems to encompass the entire store, from design, flooring, and trusses to Windows, doors, siding and millwork. It’s amazing. His work ethic rocks and he is always somebody you can count on to be around and help you out when you need it. What really motivates about Steve isn’t all of his abilities it’s how he handles everything that is thrown at him. Never complains, never sulks, always happy to help. Steve Herriges, a true professional with a customer and company first attitude.
Who motivates me at Team Blue? That is a great question and honestly cannot be answered with just one person in mind. I feel that we all motivate each other in one way or another. Julie is one person that greatly motivates me. She not only motivates me, but she teaches me which improves my confidence and knowledge in my career. She also encourages me and offers guidance to both business and personal decisions I am faced with. 2 other people that motivate me in a similar way are Albert & Todd. This has been my full time career since I was 20 so I have not had any other experience with anyone in the management/vice president position. They motivate me by always trying to bring a smile to my face if I am feeling down. They know that when I am happy everyone is happy! They complement me when I do something right or think of a new idea that would work better for the company. They encourage me to do the best that I possibly can and to talk to them if something is bothering me or on my mind, which is very comforting to know especially in the work atmosphere. I feel like this is my 2nd family so being able to be motivated and motivate my coworkers can only have a positive effect on Team Blue! Motivation to me also means encouragement and support. I was overwhelmed by the crowd of “blue” at Brian Neitzel’s funeral. I was overjoyed to see so many coworkers step out of their comfort zone to show love and support to one of our very own in a difficult time. I believe that is something that you do not see every day in a work place and I am overly thrilled to be able to work at a company so incomparable that takes family and friendship just as serious as business! I guess from my last 2 sentences you can honestly see that we all motivate, encourage, or support each other at TEAM BLUE!
The person that motivates me the most is an easy one, Beth! We all know that she has a LOT on her plate. However, she will never make you feel that she does not have the time for you. She will always make the time to answer a question, help with a measure, offer advice on an issue, meet with a contractor….etc. She does this for me every time; now multiple that times 13 for all the other designers! Not to mention that she still services all of her contractors and customers in the same way. I honestly do not know how she keeps it all straight. Plus, you just have to smile when you call and ask how her day is going and she replies with a “wonderful”. It’s just hysterical:)
…….KARL KOESCH ……..HE’S MY MOTIVATOR=VERY FRIENDLY AND ALWAYS WANTING TO OFFER ASSISTANCE…WITH SINCERETY NO LESS. HE’S ALWAYS VERY HELPFUL TO BOTH CUSDTOMERS AND TEAM MATES. HIS OPIONIONS ARE ALWAYS WELCOMED AND I LOOKE FORWARD TO LISTENING TO HIS ADVICE AND ANY/ALL COMMENTS. HE’S THE MAN. NO ACTING SINCERE-HE IS !!!!!
Who motivates me: My managers are constantly motivating me to be the best I can be. They show interest in the work I do and provide advice on how to tackle problems or improve relationships. I really value their opinions and advice, and when I do something right- they let me know it! That positive feedback motivates me every day!
I am inspired by Beth Pautsch. She always has an even temperament and a smile on her face, no matter what issues or problems arise. She is always doing wonderful no matter how full her plate is. Even when she is in a rush to run back up to Campbellsport she still takes the time to answer one more question. She is never bothered by any question no matter how little it is. Beth inspires me to keep things in perspective and take one issue at a time. I will be coming back from vacation on this date. If my name is pulled I would like to give my tickets to Beth.
THE PERSON THAT MOTIVATES ME IS ANDY THE YARD FORMAN, HE IS A VERY HARD WORKER AND WILL LISTEN TO MY IDEAS TO- ITS JUST NOT HIS WAY,HE MAKES GREAT GAME PLANS FOR LOADS TO BE EFFICIANT.HES NOT AFRAID TO CALL AND SEE IF WE CAN SWITCH A LOAD IF HES IN A PINCH.AFTER ANDY TOOK DALE CARNAGY,I SEEN HIM SHINE A LOT BETTER AND COULD SEE THE CONFIDENCE HE HAS, HE WILL BE A GREAT YARD FOREMAN FOR US.
The person that motivates me is Joel Fleischman. He is very passionate about seeing this company succeed along with its employees. He is always looking for ways to do things better, whether it is improving the bottom line or improving your individual work flow. The occasional informational article or original email of inspiration is always appreciated. If you do run into a road block he will come up with multiple solutions. It makes it easier to challenge yourself at your position when you have somebody helping you achieve your professional goals. It is also nice to see that same enthusiasm in the store managers which gives you the feeling of reassurance that everyone in the company is moving in the same direction. . . . UP!
The person who I do get the most motivation from would be Andy Krause. Since Andy has taken over the yard, he has really grown. It seems that no matter what comes up, he figures out a way to handle it. No is not in his vocabulary hardly ever and that is something I apply to what I do at my job, more so now that I see someone else do it. I think Andy truly goes by the motto no problems only solutions and that helps me at my job on a daily basis.