There’s a word I’ve been hearing lately that has me thinking. The word is “unprecedented.”

Lan-Tel Communications, Norwood, Mass." width="240" height="300" /> Joseph Bodio, Lan-Tel Communications

I heard that word used last month by a TV weatherman, who was talking about how historically dry our region has been this summer. I didn’t even need to see the graphic he put up to demonstrate his point; I’ve been around for many years, and I can’t ever recall seeing so many lawns brown, and so many leaves falling from the trees weeks ahead of schedule.

Of course, the weather’s been great if you’ve been on vacation at the beach, in the mountains, or anywhere in between. Similarly, I don’t think I’ve ever seen better weather for construction projects than this year. Off the top of my head, I can’t think of any projects that have been delayed for more than a day or so because of snow or rain. Not sure if that’s “unprecedented,” but it’s got to be close.

Speaking of which, when I talk with my colleagues from the Associated Subcontractors of Massachusetts (ASM), many of them tell me they’re as busy as they’ve ever been. It’s far better than having too little work, but they do seem a little stressed, given their heavy workload, which they may consider “unprecedented.”

But one thing’s that not unprecedented is how advice from others can help you grapple with the challenges of unprecedented times. Whether it’s advice about handling growth, or tricky contract negotiations, or employee benefits, hearing from experts and talking with folks who’ve walked a mile in your shoes is a learning and empowering experience!

Industry and association meetings are a great place to share your challenges, and get valuable advice from colleagues and experts. What’s unprecedented to you may have been a learning experience to others who have through it before. Why muddle through unchartered territory when the answers you need are just one meeting away?

This fall, ASM has some fantastic events lined up – you can read about them in more detail in this section. The ones I’m especially excited about are our member mixer this month, the annual construction technology event, and our general contractor showcase in November. They’ve all got one thing in common: you’ll see, hear, and learn things that will help you and your business operate at your best in these unprecedented times – and stay sane in the process! 

Make a point to attend one or more of these events, or send a key member of your team. I’ll bet you’ll come away pleasantly surprised at the value of both the information you gain and the interactions that take place.  I look forward to seeing you there!

Joseph Bodio is the president of the Associated Subcontractors of Mass., Boston and is president and CEO of Lan-Tel Communications, Norwood, Mass.