AV Advice From Professional AV Integrators
Getting started in any profession can be very difficult. But with the right people training, mentoring, guiding, and inspiring others to do great, a lot of doors can begin to open for beginners. So, we asked six professional AV integrators what their best piece of advice would be to anyone thinking about getting started in the AV industry.
Here is what they said…
[JO] It’s about understanding your clients more than anything else. Learn about the products and technology that are available and how they can address your client’s needs. Talk to people about what works and what didn’t.
[RJ] Learn about network infrastructure. Pay close attention to the processes others use when doing a job. The learning to manage the overall project is as valuable as mastering hands-on skills. And have fun.
[AF] I think it’s really important for me to have a good work/life balance and I would tell the same to others in the industry. I am still trying to figure this out, but moving to Montana has certainly helped.
[JV] Caution would be the word I would use. I think it can be tempting to use the most current, innovative technology available, but doing the newest thing every time may result in constantly chasing issues.
I think it’s all about balance, right? We want to be innovative and excited about new products but we also want to make sure we have vetted every product that we install.
[JV] My second piece of advice would be to establish strong relationships with vendors. We have excellent relationships with the vendors we use which means that those vendors are always recommending us to install their products. We understand the technology and we maximize the usage.
[CS] on multiple occasions having those strong relationships with vendors has ensured we get the gear on time to finish a project.
[AM] I would say that it’s a wonderful industry and there is a lot of room for growth, it’s definitely provided me with lifelong friendships and continuous education. My main piece of advice is to find a good environment where you can thrive. It’s integral to find a good company, where you have solid mentors, people who will challenge you, and most importantly, people who’ll stand by your side. I would advise anyone to get into it and if you don’t like it, you can still leave and do something else, but chances are you’re going to stick around.
[JB] “I would say don’t be afraid to innovate and come up with new ideas. One of the things that people in the industry say — both clients and rep firms — is that our company puts fresh eyes on every project. We will never rinse and repeat the same two or three system options and that’s really because we are always looking for what else is out there that will benefit our client in the long run. I try to be extremely forward-looking and anticipate a client’s needs in the future. As an example, there was one project in a downtown Seattle facility meeting room where the original integrator didn’t include teleconferencing equipment because the client felt they didn’t need it. So now a year and a half later we are in there rebuilding their entire system to add teleconference and video teleconference. So, there are times when a client says, no, we don’t want that right now; but it’s my job to inform them that we could either build this in for a little bit more money now, or it could cost a lot of money later.”
[TB] I’d advise programmers to keep detailed notes and document everything. Listen to the client, and keep detailed info on what they need to accomplish. These systems can get complicated and no one can keep all the specifics in their head — especially when working on multiple projects.
And if the client has an idea for trying something unique (and it is within budget), give it a try… the engagement will help make a happy return customer, and you will add something new to your capabilities. Unique ideas can come from anywhere.
If you work in the AV industry as well and want to share your best piece of AV advice, feel free to leave a comment below or reach out to us on our social media channels.
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