How often have we heard industry leaders, politicians or general statements reported in the media, businesses should be aiming for best practice? Its not a new expression! Its used to encourage us to aim for a level of practice in our management systems, our production systems or for our general decisions.
Aiming for a standard is a good thing. However the other day I heard an interview on the ABC's Landline program that made me stop and think.
The interview was with Mr Sunny Verghese who is the CEO or OLAM International. OLAM is one of the worlds largest agricultural commodity trading companies. Its definitely an interview to watch or to read the transcript.
I was struck by a statement made by Mr Verghese. He said that aiming for best practice isn't such a great strategy, since the whole world is aiming for best practice. If everyone is aiming for best practice, it puts you in the middle of the pack! The ideal place to be is to be aiming for next practice! Looking for the next breakthrough; the next development, setting a standard for everyone else to aspire to.
When I think about this I have to admit to being excited. I love the idea of developing new and better ways to go about agriculture.
I caught that interview around the same time I saw this image. I think it sums up my approach to RaynerAg and the people I am really enjoying working with.
I find it inspiring to work with producers who have a vision and a goal. I value the chance to be part of their dreams and to help see them come together in their businesses.
I reckon there are a few things that I have drawn after reflecting on this image and from the interview.
Firstly if you have a dream and a passion, follow it. Who knows that it isn't going to be the next practice others will aspire towards!
Make it happen! As an extension officer, I know that you have to test ideas and see if they work. You can learn just as much from something not working as seeing it work perfectly. If you don't try you will never learn how good that idea may be.
Most of all, have fun! Don't take for granted the pleasure and happiness of working with animals, with working in the environment and the laughs you can have each day.
Getting ahead of the pack and creating the next practice for others to aspire to will take a bit of work. But its exciting and challenging, and ultimately it will be really rewarding. I'm definitely looking forward to being ahead of the pack and being there with the people I most enjoy working with!