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HAULING SPOTLIGHT: with EAMONN DUIGNAN
Company: Green Coast Rubbish, Inc.Established: 2006
Location: North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Services: Junk Removal & Recycling, Demolition, Deconstruction Projects, and Custom Recycling/Repurposing Projects/Programs
Website: GreenCoastRubbish.com
Instagram: @GreenCoastRubbish
Eamonn's Inspiration and Journey in the Industry
Nearly 18 years ago, when I embarked on this venture, the trajectory it set us on was unforeseen, and the ensuing greatness has been a privilege. Our ethos has always been to maintain a minimal environmental footprint, tackling challenges with positivity and creativity.
We're a unique entity, operating out of a converted A-frame cabin from the 60s. This space is not just our HQ; it's a testament to our commitment to sustainability and creativity. It serves as a living example of the potential in repurposing what is typically seen as waste. Our upcoming repurpose lab or workshop, primarily built from reclaimed materials from our projects, embodies our core principles of style, functionality, and sustainability. As we gear up to fully launch Cove Repurpose, we're closing the loop in our services—offering a revolutionary perspective on redefining waste in our society.
At Green Coast, we are driven by the values of teamwork, community, and environmental stewardship. We strive for excellence in all our endeavors, underpinned by the importance of relationships, equitable partnerships, and supportive collaborations with our vendors. These foundations have not only contributed to our success but are also vital for our future.
As we stand on the brink of fully operationalizing Cove Repurpose, we are excited about the future. We're evolving into a holistic service provider, demonstrating that with the right perspective, what is considered waste can be transformed into valuable resources. This journey reflects our dedication to not just doing business, but doing it with a purpose that benefits our community and our planet.
Leadership and Business Philosophy
Drawing inspiration from mountain biking and the community ethos of Deep Cove, my approach emphasizes empowerment, environmental ethics, and community contribution. My ventures focus on sustainability, innovation, and the collective impact.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
The entrepreneurial journey is undeniably challenging but immensely fulfilling. It's crucial to follow your dreams, set up a solid corporate structure from the get-go, and understand all municipal regulations, planning not just for today but for a successful future a decade down the line. Ensure you have coverage and a contingency plan for when things go sideways—because they usually do.
Listening to people, delivering on your promises, solving problems effectively, and maintaining relationships are key, as it will support you through tough times.
Embrace adaptability and the continuous pursuit of knowledge to navigate the shifting sands of market trends and technology. Innovation should permeate every aspect of your business, setting you apart and addressing needs creatively. Building a strong team and network that shares your values and vision is vital, as is prioritizing customer satisfaction to foster loyalty and a strong reputation.
Effective financial management is the backbone of sustainability, while maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential to avoid burnout and keep your creativity flowing. Above all, staying true to your core values, leading with authenticity, and contributing positively to your community not only paves the way for your business's success but also ensures its longevity and relevance. In return, the community will embrace you, enabling your future success and allowing you to leave a lasting impact.
Welcome to this edition of our newsletter! Leadership, when done right, is the secret sauce to not just surviving but thriving in the hauling game. As Jack Welch, former CEO of General Electric said so eloquently, "Good business leaders create a vision, articulate the vision, passionately own the vision, and relentlessly drive it to completion."
Be the ️ Captain Your Crew Raves About
First off, leadership isn't just about calling the shots; it’s about being the kind of boss your team is pumped to follow. So, here’s your game plan:
Give Props Where They're Due: Caught someone doing something awesome? Shout it from the rooftops (or just a team meeting/morning huddle works too).
Skill Up: Offer training sessions or online courses to help your crew get even better at what they do. Their growth is your business’s growth.
Walk the Talk
Nobody respects a leader who just talks a big game. You gotta be in the trenches with your team, showing them how it’s done.
Lead by Doing: Next big junk haul? Be there, getting your hands dirty too. It shows you’re one of them.
Stay Cool Under Pressure: Hit a snag? Keep calm and solve it. Your team will learn to handle stress like pros too.
"Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things." Peter Drucker
Innovate or Stagnate
The junk and dumpster business is always changing, and staying ahead means being open to new ideas and technology. Be the innovator, not the “we’ve always done it this way” guy.
Brainstorm: Have regular brainstorming sessions where any and all ideas are welcome. You never know where the next big idea will come from.
Tech Trial Runs: New software or app? Give it a whirl and see if it makes your life easier. Your bottom line will thank you.
Customer Love 101
Happy customers are repeat customers. Your leadership can make or break their experience.
Feedback Loop: After every job, ask your customers for feedback. Then, actually use it to make your service better.
Personal Touch: Send a thank you note or a follow-up message to ensure they’re satisfied. It’s the little things that count.
Leadership isn't just about steering the ship; it's about charting a course towards a brighter, bolder future where every challenge is an opportunity, every team member feels empowered, and every customer becomes a part of our extended family.
So here's to leading with heart, vision, and a dash of grit—transforming not just our businesses, but the very industry we love, one truckload full of junk at a time.
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Got a leadership story or a game-changing strategy of your own? We're all ears! Reply and share your experiences and insights with us in the Haulers Forum. Let's inspire each other and build a community of unstoppable leaders.
Justin Hubbard
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