In recent years, the CNC machining industry has undergone a series of striking generational shifts: in addition to a younger, more tech-savvy workforce arriving on the scene, many tried-and-true practices have evolved—or even become outdated—at a rapid pace.
In this context, the modern CNC machine shop must embrace new methods while respecting and integrating the proven strategies of the past. At NTMA, we’ve seen first-hand how a hybrid approach to machine shop management is preparing companies for the CNC industry of tomorrow.
But how, exactly, can CNC business leaders bring their hard-earned experience together with the latest technologies? Let’s explore five strategies for bridging this generational divide that will help your shop stay relevant and competitive in today’s dynamic industry.
1. Embrace New Sales and Marketing Opportunities
More and more, the traditional methods for finding new customers are disappearing. Strategies like tradeshow blitzes, door-to-door selling, and advertising with physical mailers, for example, are being replaced by online demos, virtual shop tours, email campaigns, and content marketing.
While some of these tools may at first seem intimidating or expensive, early adoption can save you time and money in the long run—all while boosting your shop’s online visibility and helping you reach a larger number of customers.
2. Discover Customers and Suppliers Across the Globe
Thirty years ago, many CNC companies were confined to local and regional markets. However, using the power of the internet, the modern CNC machine shop can develop a global reach. This isn’t just limited to expanding your customer base; organizations like NTMA are also helping their members to seamlessly find suppliers and operational partners across the globe as if they were local.
3. Cultivate Your Digital Presence
No matter where a potential customer or supplier hears about your shop, there’s a good chance they’ll look you up online before making a decision about working with you. That’s why it’s important to ensure that your digital presence makes a great first impression.
In the past, machine shops could get by with a simple website that contained the basics about their expertise and capabilities. Today, things are very different. Every one of your prospects has a computer in their pocket, meaning they’ll be able to quickly find your website or Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn pages. And, when they do, they’ll likely be looking for what sets you apart from the competition.
In this current landscape, modern CNC machine shops must cultivate their digital presence. A strong online presence starts with making sure that your website and social media platforms convey your company’s story and strengths (e.g., a particularly powerful machine or sought-after certification). From there, don’t forget to update these channels regularly! An inactive Facebook page, for instance, could signal to a younger audience that you’re no longer in business.
4. Nurture Business Relationships with New Technologies
New digital technologies make it easier than ever to maintain your CNC business relationships. While the COVID-19 pandemic forced shops and their partners to connect using Zoom and other video-conferencing tools, this mode of communication has become the new normal.
This decline in face-to-face interactions offers machine shops new opportunities for building trust and streamlining operations. Some, for example, have realized that they can check in with their customers more regularly to provide support and solicit feedback about how they can improve their manufacturing, communication, or quoting practices.
5. Prioritize Tools that Increase Your Speed and Responsiveness
As more regular interaction with your customers teaches you how to improve, it’s important to adopt new technologies that will increase your speed and responsiveness even further. Platforms like Paperless Parts, for instance, enable shops to maximize quoting efficiency and reallocate time and other resources where they’re most needed.
NTMA: Helping Shops Achieve Generational Synergy
Oftentimes, CNC leaders make the mistake of seeing today’s generational divide as a war between two opposing camps, one dedicated to tradition and the other to innovation.
At NTMA, we know that machine shops need to draw equally on the experiences and skills of both generations. That’s why we’re committed to providing our members with networking opportunities, workforce development programs, and other training and resources through which today’s machining shops can become tomorrow’s leaders.
Need help striking a balance between tradition and technology? Join NTMA today!
