What does concrete and caring having in common? Gateway CEO Board Member and Investor Jason Gillihan with Gillihan Concrete spent the morning with students last Friday. Gillihan Concrete was founded in 1986 and Jason and his wife Amanda are now 2nd generation owns that specialize in commercial, industrial, and residential flatwork, foundations, site concrete, and decorative concrete application.
Jason began working with his dad in high school and then picked up in the family business after returning from college. As he continued to grow in business, he spent time leaning into leadership podcasts and worked through how he might manage the business differently as he moved forward.
Today, Jason leads his team and serves customers with people and relationships at the core of his business. He strives to motivate his team to do what they don't want to do every day - as they make sure clients are served with a quality finished product and professional attitude from start to finish. Here are some highights from Jason's leadership style -
- With each project, Jason and his team help uncover a client needs and what will help meet that need. He wants the clients to feel cared for and builds their trust that his crew can complete the project.
- Finding new employees - Always looking for those ready to work and eager to learn. When a young person shows up with enthusiasm, he knows he can make things work.
- The transition of any business may take several years. Working through the valuation of the business and the decision to establish the company as a Women's Business Enterprise will help with customer/business strategy.
- When stepping into management, always the goal was to outperform anyone else on the job.
- When in a competitive market - finding a niche market can help set you apart.
- Learn how TO THINK. Seems simple, but learning to be a critical thinker and solve problems is one of the greatest assets you can have!
- Two different authors with huge impact - How to Win Friends and Influence People and Simon Sinek - what is your why? This approach, with a pure heart, can make so many things happen.
- Wake up everyday with a goal to get past seeking comfort! It's ok to acknowledge fear, but don't let it dictate your decisions.
It was an incredible morning with many thought provoking questions! Thank you so much Jason for spending your morning with us!
