Hands-On Experience: How it Creates Better Leaders in the Flooring Industry

Leadership isn’t just about making decisions from behind a desk; it’s about understanding the ins and outs of the work being done. At Preferred Flooring, we believe that hands-on experience is the cornerstone of effective leadership. In an industry where precision, craftsmanship, and problem-solving are essential, leaders who have been on the ground—installing, troubleshooting, and collaborating—bring invaluable expertise to their teams.

The Power of Leading by Example

A great leader doesn’t just tell their team what to do; they show them how it’s done. By having real-world experience in flooring installation, material selection, and job site management, leaders gain credibility and respect from their teams. Employees are more likely to trust and follow leaders who understand the complexities of their work. When leaders have been in the trenches, they can empathize with their team’s challenges, leading to a more supportive and productive work environment.

Real-Life Example: Stepping In When It Matters

At Preferred Flooring, we once had a project where a large commercial installation faced unexpected delays due to a material supply issue. Instead of just issuing orders, our leadership team rolled up their sleeves, worked alongside the installers, and reorganized the workflow to maximize efficiency while waiting for materials. Their hands-on approach not only kept the project on track but also boosted team morale and showed employees that leadership truly understands the work they do.

“The best leaders are the ones who don’t just give directions but work alongside their team to get the job done.” - Crystal Sims

Problem Solving in Real Life

The flooring industry presents unique challenges on every project, from unexpected site conditions to last-minute changes in materials. Leaders with hands-on experience can make informed decisions quickly because they’ve been in those situations before. They don’t just rely on theory—they rely on practical knowledge gained from years of working in the field. This ability to adapt and problem-solve in real time sets experienced leaders apart.

Building Stronger Teams

Employees respect and follow leaders who have been in their shoes. A leader who has installed flooring themselves knows what it takes to get the job done efficiently and correctly. This knowledge fosters a sense of camaraderie and trust between leadership and their teams. When employees see that their leaders are willing to step in and work alongside them when needed, it strengthens the team dynamic and creates a positive workplace culture.

Real-Life Example: Creating a Learning Environment

A new installer at Preferred Flooring once struggled with a particularly tricky corner installation. Instead of merely instructing them from a distance, one of our experienced leaders demonstrated the technique step by step, explaining why each action mattered. Not only did the new installer learn a valuable skill, but the entire team benefited from watching the hands-on demonstration. This approach to mentorship builds confidence and ensures high-quality work across the board.

Collaboration Beyond the Job Site

Teamwork doesn’t stop once the job is done. At Preferred Flooring, we believe in fostering a strong sense of community both inside and outside the workplace. Whether it’s participating in local charity events, hosting team-building activities, or providing mentorship opportunities for aspiring professionals in the industry, we extend our collaborative mindset beyond installations. We also believe in strengthening our bonds by eating out as a team, sharing meals, and unwinding together after a hard day’s work. These moments of camaraderie allow us to build trust, boost morale, and create lasting relationships that enhance our work culture. By working together beyond the job site, we strengthen our bonds, support our community, and build a culture that prioritizes teamwork at every level.

The Future of Teamwork in Flooring

The flooring industry continues to evolve, with new techniques, materials, and technologies shaping the way installations are done. As we grow and adapt, teamwork will remain the backbone of our success. The ability to collaborate, problem-solve, and innovate together will keep us ahead of the competition and ensure that every project is completed to the highest standards.

At Preferred Flooring, we don’t just build floors—we build strong foundations for our team, our clients, and our community. We’re committed to setting the standard in the flooring industry as well as in our local community.

Improving Training and Mentorship

One of the most important roles of a leader is to develop the next generation of skilled professionals. Leaders who have firsthand experience can train employees more effectively, providing practical tips and insights that can’t be learned from a textbook alone. Mentorship becomes more impactful when leaders share their own experiences, helping employees navigate challenges and grow their skills faster.

Enhancing Customer Satisfaction

Clients expect high-quality results, and hands-on leadership ensures that projects are completed to the highest standards. Leaders who understand the installation process can better communicate with clients, set realistic expectations, and ensure their team delivers top-tier craftsmanship. This commitment to quality builds trust with clients and strengthens the company’s reputation.

Customer Confidence and Reputation

A leader who has firsthand experience in the flooring industry can explain processes, address client concerns, and ensure that expectations are aligned with reality. When clients see a leader who is knowledgeable and actively involved, they gain confidence in the company’s ability to deliver. This confidence leads to positive reviews, repeat business, and a strong reputation in the industry.

Hands-On Leadership Drives Innovation

A leader who understands the flooring industry at a technical level is more likely to recognize opportunities for innovation. Hands-on experience allows leaders to see inefficiencies firsthand and develop new techniques, workflows, and tools to improve productivity and quality. Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens when leaders are engaged in the work itself and continuously seek better solutions.

Staying Ahead of Industry Trends

When leaders work directly in the field, they are more aware of emerging materials, tools, and installation methods. This allows them to make informed decisions about adopting new technologies that enhance efficiency and quality. By staying engaged with the latest flooring innovations, hands-on leaders ensure their companies remain competitive and ahead of the curve. At Preferred Flooring we’re proud to not only stay ahead of these trends, but we know the people and are actively involved in the process.

The Future of Leadership in Flooring

At Preferred Flooring, we know that the best leaders don’t just manage—they engage, educate, and inspire. Hands-on experience is the key to developing leaders who understand the intricacies of the flooring industry, foster stronger teams, and consistently deliver quality work. By investing in real-world experience, we continue to set the standard—one installation at a time.

“ Leadership isn’t about just telling people what to do, it’s about showing them. There’s a misconception that you can write something down and everyone will understand it, that’s why even the products we use have pictures. People like to see what you’re talking about, they like to be hands on - and that’s how a lot of the industry learns. We’re not here to just tell people what to do and hope that it comes out the way we want, we’re here to lead them in the direction we need to go. I’ve spent many days on job sites helping the team achieve the goals necessary to stay on a timeline, and I’ll continue to do that so my team knows I’m not asking them to do anything I wouldn’t do myself”

- Daniel Gonzalez NAFCT, CFI, CIM

For more insights on how hands-on leadership shapes the future of flooring, follow our blog or contact us at Preferred Flooring. Leadership isn’t just about delegating—it’s about understanding the craft, innovating through experience, and guiding a team with knowledge gained on the job. Whether you're upgrading your space or starting a new project, our experienced team is here to ensure quality and precision at every step. Let us show you how hands-on expertise sets the standard, one installation at a time.

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