Starting a new job at a new company provides an opportunity to learn what makes a company. Here are six things I’ve learned in my six months thus far at Feyen Zylstra.
1. The FZ Way Processes
Learning a company’s systems and processes can often feel like a challenge. Too often, there’s a disconnect between what processes say and what actually happens. However, at FZ they are truly integrated. Every day we put these processes into action, and they guide our success. The following quote embodies the efforts made here daily with our FZ Way Processes:
“Don’t focus on the numbers. Trust the process. When you keep doing things the right way, eventually the numbers will rise, the wins will come, and the outcomes will follow.”
2. Loyalty runs deep.
It’s been refreshing to meet and build relationships with FZers who have been here for 30+ years. We have a ‘FZ Hall of Fame’ in our Grand Rapids office that has pictures, awards, and memorabilia that highlight FZ’s 44 years of business. It’s an honor to be a small part in continuing teammate's careers, expanding their experiences, and helping form the communities we work in for years to come.
3. Field First is not just a motto, but a conscious daily focus.
It’s easy to get lost in the daily grind and let the field slip from the top of the priority list. But at FZ, our focus remains squarely on the field, no matter what. We constantly challenge ourselves to refocus, making sure the needs of the field always come first. It’s a principle that’s ingrained in the company’s culture and one that I deeply respect.
4. Locally founded, with a national presence.
While FZ is proudly rooted in Grand Rapids, our reach is far broader. Some days, it feels like I’m working for two companies—one that has shaped Grand Rapids’ skyline over the past 44 years, and another that continues to expand market share in our southern regions. It’s been energizing to collaborate with our teams in Nashville, Charlotte, and Charleston, drawing on their experiences to enhance what we’re doing here.
5. A daily dose of humor and humility goes a long way.
Typically, we are seen as an industry that is ruled by the law of tooth and fang. However, when you are new and learning a new facet of the industry, it can be difficult to acknowledge or ask for help. But the team here truly embraces a team approach, and has been accommodating patient and also institutes some humor to help folks acclimate. It’s appreciated and helped calm nerves in a new endeavor.
6. Notecards....so many notecards.
Something that I have quickly become accustomed to is FZ notecards. I owe this to our CEO, Nate Koetje. At the end of most FZ meetings, little white and blue notecards are handed out to the team to write anonymous questions, comments, or feedback. These are then read aloud to the group and used to spark ideas or answer questions. Although very simple, it is effective.
As I look ahead to the next six months, I’m excited to continue learning and growing here at FZ. And I’ll be sure to keep my pockets stocked with FZ notecards!
Director of Sales and Operations, Michigan
Share this Blog Post
Leave a question or comment:
