Originally posted 2019-02-04 09:00:30.
This year marks the Centennial of the Associated General Contractors of America and the AGC of Virginia. This year’s conference (held January 24-27, 2019) at a new venue , the Greenbrier in White Sulfer Springs, VA, celebrated that milestone.
I have been to many of these over the years and discussed the great marketing and educational opportunities that arise from attendance. This year was no different. The attendees were able to take advantage of a beautiful sporting clays course, good food, a casino and various other activities from a Friday night dance party with a “Decades” theme to “Black Jack 101.” The contractors even woke up early Saturday morning to listen to me as part of a panel of Virginia construction attorneys give a legal update. Thanks to all that attended, I hope you got some good information. And, yes, that is a Greenbrier key card with my firm logo (thanks to the planning committee for the opportunity to be a key card sponsor this year).
With all of that said, I still maintain that the most important part of the weekend (for both contractors and the construction attorneys that serve them) was the networking. Not only did I get to visit with and cement friendships and business relationships with those I know, I meet someone new each and every time I hit the road from Richmond and head to the appalacian mountains. I have always found that, even in today’s social media saturated world (of which I am an enthusiastic part), the opportunity to chat, shake hands, and even laugh with friends, clients and potential business sources is an invaluable way to keep a business going.
While having a social media and internet presence is almost a necessity, I find that in person contact creates a trust level and connection that will create a more solid relationship with a general contractor (if you’re a sub) or any other construction company (for those who seek them as clients). At least in Virginia (and I’d be surprised if it is any other way in other states) a level of knowledge about who you are dealing with is key to both obtaining and getting paid for work. Participation in an organization like the AGC of Virginia is a great way to meet and start building new relationships and to cement already existing ones. If you aren’t a member, I hope you’ll consider joining. If you’re already a member, I hope to see you at the 2020 convention.
In sum, this past weekend was great. Thanks to all that I met and chatted with. If I didn’t say “hi” and you’re a friend, I apologize and will catch up next time.
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