Navigating the shifting tides of the lighting industry is no small feat, and as I peer into the rearview mirror of the past year, I'm struck by our collective resilience. Even as we missed the zenith of success from previous years, there's a spark of optimism for what 2024 holds, despite the perplexing economic signals and the shadow of an election year. In a candid sharing of my journey, I unravel the knots of undergoing a major software transition in my showroom, a process that has been both draining and invigorating. And as the possibility of rekindling our podcast in February 2024 hangs in the balance, the vitality of our community's input has never been clearer. Your voices fuel this space, and it's this very interconnection that illuminates the path ahead for our industry.

The conversation then pivots to the undercurrents of challenge that lighting showroom retailers confront daily. The narrative weaves through the undervaluation of our specialized knowledge, shrinking margins, and the fading of sales tools that were once our mainstay. I dissect the evolving dynamics between manufacturers and showrooms, advocating for 'to the trade certified' partnerships to rejuvenate our sector. With each insight and reflection shared, the episode becomes a call to arms for transparency and alliance. We're not just selling lights; we're safeguarding our expertise and fortifying partnerships that respect the depth of our work. Join me as we illuminate the intricacies of our trade and champion the reciprocal relationships essential for the lighting industry's prosperity.

Thank you to Lights America for sponsoring this episode of Lighting with Lisa!

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• Lighting Jobs
• Email Lisa

If you noticed there was no LWL episode last week, it is because I was mid-implementation of NetSuite with not an ounce of energy to spare. Listen now for an update on our process PLUS a great listener tip that I elaborate on to drive add-on services (and a much needed margin boost and competitive advantage) for your showroom. What add-ons does your showroom provide? Let me know!

Thank you to Zastro for sponsoring this episode of Lighting with Lisa!

• Fixture Finder
• Lighting Jobs
• Email Lisa

Are you weary of cookie-cutter content and impersonal posts that are plaguing your social media experience? Do you feel like the lighting industry is lagging behind in effectively harnessing social media's full potential? Yeah, I am too. So heading into 2024, let's rethink our approach, identify our end goals, and shake things up a bit to tap into the enormous potential of this digital platform. As an additional challenge : DM me or comment below and tag an account who is doing a great job with their social media content so we can all #beinspired.

Thank you to Lights America for sponsoring this episode of Lighting with Lisa!

• Fixture Finder
• Lighting Jobs
• Email Lisa